When you see Rajinikanth and Aamir Khan sharing screen space after nearly 30 years, you expect fireworks. Coolie (2025) doesn’t just deliver those fireworks—it lights up the screen with raw emotion, stylish action, and a story that hits deep. Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, the man behind Kaithi and Vikram, this film is a gritty revenge drama that blends masala cinema with layered storytelling.
With a runtime of 2 hours and 48 minutes, Coolie isn’t a quick watch—but it earns your time. Here’s my honest, no-spoiler review of this action-packed, emotion-driven blockbuster.
Plot Summary
Coolie follows the life of Deva, played by Rajinikanth, a man shaped by tragedy, anger, and a burning desire for justice. Since his youth, Deva has carried the weight of a painful past—one that turned him into a hardened soul determined to right the wrongs done to him and his people.
The film dives into themes like:
- Class struggle
- Revenge
- Redemption
- Identity and lost childhood
What starts as a personal vendetta slowly turns into a larger fight against systemic oppression. The emotional weight is heavy, but it never slows down the thrilling pace.
Cast & Characters Analysis
Rajinikanth as Deva
Rajini doesn’t just act—he becomes Deva. From powerful dialogues to silent glances, every frame he’s in feels alive. He brings his signature style, but also a sense of vulnerability that we don’t always see in his roles.
Aamir Khan as Dahaa
Aamir plays Dahaa, a complex character with shades of grey. Is he the villain? An antihero? You’ll have to decide for yourself. What’s clear is that Aamir owns every scene he’s in with cold intensity and emotional depth.
Nagarjuna Akkineni as Simon
Simon acts as a bridge between the two leads, and Nagarjuna delivers with grace. His presence gives the film weight and maturity.
Supporting Cast Highlights
- Sathyaraj brings gravitas as a retired revolutionary figure.
- Upendra plays a layered character with political influence.
- Shruti Haasan and Pooja Hegde don’t just serve as glam elements—they carry emotional subplots of their own.
- Cameos from Reba Monica John, Soubin Shahir, and others spice up the second half.
Direction & Screenplay
Lokesh Kanagaraj proves yet again why he’s one of the most exciting directors in Indian cinema. He mixes hyper-real action with grounded drama, using flashbacks and slow reveals to build suspense. The screenplay co-written with Chandhru Anbazhagan unfolds like a novel—each act revealing a deeper truth.
His signature touches—gritty realism, dimly lit frames, symbolic visuals—are all here. If you loved Kaithi or Vikram, you’ll find a lot to enjoy in Coolie.
Action & Technical Aspects
The action choreography is top-notch. We’re talking about:
- Hand-to-hand combat that feels raw and unpolished
- Explosive set pieces that never feel overdone
- Minimal CGI, more practical effects (a rare treat these days)
The cinematography uses shadows, railway yards, and rain-soaked streets to reflect Deva’s inner world. The sound mix (Dolby Atmos and DTS:X) makes you feel the punches and explosions in your bones.
Music & Soundtrack
Anirudh Ravichander brings modern flair while paying homage to the past. The highlight is:
- “Coolie Disco”, a remix of Ilaiyaraaja’s “Vaa Vaa Pakkam Vaa” from Thanga Magan (1983). It hits with nostalgia and energy.
The background score drives tension and emotion without overwhelming the scenes. Each theme feels custom-built for the moment.
Coolie’s Place in Modern Indian Cinema
This isn’t just another big-star release. Coolie feels like a cultural moment—a statement on working-class struggles, generational pain, and cinematic legacy.
It also connects with today’s themes:
- Labor rights
- Corruption in infrastructure and contracts
- The forgotten history of real-life coolies in Indian rail systems
Audience Reactions & Pre-Release Buzz
The film was already a massive trend on social media with the hashtag #Thalaivar171. Now that it’s out, fans are calling it a “spiritual successor” to Baasha and Vikram. Theater crowds are wild, especially in Tamil Nadu, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.
Pros & Cons Summary
✅ Pros:
- Stellar performances (especially Rajinikanth and Aamir)
- Powerful storyline with emotional weight
- Gritty, well-choreographed action scenes
- Outstanding music and technical polish
❌ Cons:
- At 168 minutes, it can feel stretched
- Some subplots (especially romantic ones) feel underdeveloped
Verdict & Rating
Coolie is not just a revenge movie. It’s a reflection of society through the eyes of a broken man who refuses to be silent. With its emotional core, gripping action, and iconic performances, it stands tall as one of 2025’s best Indian films.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Recommended for: Action lovers, Rajinikanth fans, and anyone who wants cinema with both mass and meaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Coolie part of Lokesh’s cinematic universe?
There are hints and cameos, but it stands on its own.
Is Coolie available in multiple languages?
Yes! It’s released in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and Kannada.
What’s the runtime of the film?
168 minutes (2 hours and 48 minutes)
Where was it shot?
Mainly at Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad.
What is the theme of Coolie?
It explores revenge, justice, and class conflict with a strong emotional undertone.
