Coolie Review: Powerhouse in Parts

BOTTOM LINE
Powerhouse in Parts

RATING
2.5/5

CENSOR
A, 2h 50m

What Is the Film About?

Simon (Nagarjuna) runs a smuggling network, and the story follows how Deva (Rajinikanth) enters his empire, reveals his past, connects to Preeti (Shruti Haasan) and how the friendship angle ties it all together forming the core of the Coolie story.

Performances

Rajinikanth right from his styling to his signature body language and mannerisms is in top form. Everything feels intact and it is his persona that makes a lot of otherwise ordinary scenes enjoyable. Director Lokesh Kanagaraj presents a senior hero like Rajinikanth in some of his best looks with styling from hair to clothing working perfectly for him. Performance-wise, there are a few moments where Rajini shines as an actor, but overall, it feels more like a casual walk-in-the-park role for him.

When it comes to Nagarjuna who takes on an out-and-out negative role, the effort is commendable but ultimately half-baked. In the first half his character and presentation show good promise, and his impressive makeover adds to the impact. However, as the film moves into the second half, that promise quickly fades, wiping out the goodwill built earlier. It’s a good attempt and a refreshing change for Nag, but it doesn’t come through with full force.

Shruti Haasan after a long time gets a meaty and important role. She has strong role throughout and it’s presented well. She also delivers a convincing performance. Cameos by Upendra and Aamir Khan add very little to the film – they neither harm it nor leave a memorable mark.

Analysis

Coolie is directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj known for delivering high-end action films. The film opens in an interesting port backdrop introducing Simon (Nagarjuna) in a brief yet attention-grabbing manner. From there until the interval, the proceedings remain fairly engaging even though nothing really screams high energy or sets a new bar.

This time, Lokesh takes a simpler approach. At least in the first half, the story feels straightforward with a touch of friendship-based emotion. Shruti Haasan plays Rajinikanth’s friend’s daughter, while Nag takes on the negative role of Simon. Their presence generates enough interest to keep the narrative moving.

While Nag’s negative role lacks depth, his style, swag, and the novelty of seeing him in such a refreshing character add interest. Rajinikanth, with his trademark swagger and occasional bursts of humor, delivers enjoyable moments that help maintain the engagement.

On the flip side, the overall bar is set moderately. There are no major action highs or the usual raciness expected from a Lokesh Kanagaraj film. As a result, the first half ends up being a fairly decent watch, leaving the momentum to be picked up in the second half.

The second half of Coolie, instead of building on the first drags endlessly. Surprisingly, Lokesh Kanagaraj who convinced Nagarjuna to take on a negative role and set up a decent premise for his character completely misses the chance to make proper use of Simon. What we get instead is Soubin Shahir’s character and Shruti Haasan’s track stretching far too long.

There are a few moments that work well and Soubin’s wife, played by Rachita Ram is a refreshing addition that adds some intrigue to the otherwise dull proceedings. Cameos by Upendra and Aamir Khan towards the end do little to elevate the film.

Overall, the second-half syndrome strikes Lokesh Kanagaraj again after Leo. Still, Coolie manages to offer some enjoyable blocks in both halves. Rajinikanth’s screen presence and trademark style make those moments click. The film’s biggest strength lies in its strong technical execution – both visually and in audio design – which adds to its appeal making it a one-time watch if you go in with the right expectations.

Performances by Others Actors

Malayalam actor Soubin Shahir gets a strong and important role in Coolie with ample screen time and he delivers an impressive performance without a doubt. While the film may have its scripting issues, performance-wise Soubin truly stands out. Sathyaraj in a brief role plays his part aptly and Rachita Ram is a refreshing addition who performs her role very well. Kanna Ravi as Nag’s son has a short presence and he is just alright.

Pooja Hegde appears in the “Monica” song which is a visual feast. Although its placement in the film may be questionable for some viewers, visually it is a treat and her song cameo works well.

Music and Other Departments?

Anirudh Ravichander composes the music for Coolie and as expected he gives his best for a Rajinikanth film. Whether it is the songs or the background score Anirudh proves to be a backbone of the solid technical work behind the movie. From an overall perspective, this may not be his career-best, but he certainly delivers, and his music elevates several moments in the film.

Cinematography by Girish Gangadharan gives Coolie a consistently appealing visual style making it engaging for the big screen. His work not only enhances the film’s look but also stands as one of its strongest backbones. Editing by Philomin Raj is a major culprit, with several scenes in the second half that drag painfully, and overall, the film never feels crisp. Production values by Sun Pictures are solid and the film both visually and technically impressive.

Highlights?

First Half

Rajinikanth’s swag and enjoyable dialogues

Solid technical values

BGM and a few action blocks

Drawbacks?

Dragging second half

Half-baked negative role for Nagarjuna

Underutilized cameos of Upendra and Aamir Khan

Story feels all over the place

Did I Enjoy It?

Yes, though not fully. Parts of it are enjoyable.

Will You Recommend It?

Yes, but not if you expect Lokesh’s usual high-octane action.

Coolie Movie Review by M9

Live Updates

#Coolie After a decent first half, the second half drags making it a one-time watch with the right expectations. Rajini’s style and swag stay intact, which helps the film, but Nag’s initially promising role ends up half-baked.

A few blocks work well in both halves, and solid technical work still gives Coolie some appeal.

Rating: 2.5/5

#Coolie Decent first half!

Coolie first half half runs in a simple setup with Rajini’s signature swag shining through, while Nag’s Simon role works out. So far, it relies on straightforward drama and emotion, unlike Loki’s trademark action highs.

Coolie opens in a port backdrop with a brief introduction of Simon (Nag). Stay tuned for the report.

Coolie U.S. premiere begins at 9.15 PM EST (6.30 AM EST). Stay tuned for Coolie movie Review, U.S. report.

Coolie brings together a packed cast of stars including Rajinikanth, Nagarjuna, Soubin Shahir, Upendra, and Aamir, under the direction of Lokesh Kanagaraj, the most happening director right now. It is now up to the film to deliver on the hype and meet expectations. Stay tuned for the Coolie movie review.

Cast: Rajinikanth, Nagarjuna, Soubin Shahir, Upendra, Shruti Haasan, Sathyaraj, Aamir Khan

Story, Screenplay and Direction: Lokesh Kanagaraj
Music: Anirudh Ravichander
Cinematography: Girish Gangadharan
Editor: Philomin Raj

Producer: Kalanithi Maran
Banner: Sun Pictures

U.S. Distributor: Prathyangira Cinemas

Coolie Movie Review by M9