Rajinikanth’s much-awaited film Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, is set for a massive box office clash with Hrithik Roshan and NTR’s War 2, directed by Ayan Mukerji, on 14 August. With the release date approaching, advance bookings for both films are moving quickly, creating a buzz among audiences.
While many expected Coolie to dominate in pre-bookings, reports suggest the film is witnessing a strong surge in advance sales. War 2, on the other hand, is showing steady performance in overseas pre-sales but has not yet matched Coolie’s momentum.
Industry talk points to YRF Films securing the majority of single-screen theatres in North India, reportedly allocating 80 to 85 percent of them to War 2 and leaving only 15 to 20 percent for Coolie.
This move has sparked debate among fans and trade experts. Critics argue that YRF is restricting Coolie’s reach, while others defend the decision, pointing out that Tamil Nadu rarely gives Hindi films significant screen space. They question why Hindi audiences should be expected to support Tamil filmmakers in the North when the reverse is not common in the South.
The discussion has intensified, with some even sharing old videos of Rajinikanth expressing opposition to Hindi and calling for a boycott of Coolie. Supporters of War 2 are amplifying these calls, urging the Hindi audience to back Hrithik Roshan and NTR’s film instead. As both movies gear up for their grand release, all eyes are on the 14 August showdown to see which one emerges victorious.
