After a thunderous theatrical run and over ₹500 crore in global box office collections, Rajinikanth’s high-octane action thriller Coolie has finally made its way to streaming. Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, the film premiered on Amazon Prime Video on September 11, 2025, giving fans across the globe a chance to experience the spectacle from the comfort of their homes. With a star-studded cast, gripping storyline, and Rajinikanth’s magnetic screen presence, Coolie is poised to dominate the OTT space just as it did in cinemas.

A Theatrical Blockbuster Finds a New Home

Released in theatres on August 14, Coolie quickly became one of the biggest hits of the year. The film marked Rajinikanth’s return to full-fledged action after a brief hiatus and coincided with his 50-year milestone in the film industry. The anticipation was sky-high, and the film delivered on every front—action, drama, emotion, and style. Now, with its OTT debut, Coolie is set to reach an even wider audience, including those who missed its theatrical run or want to relive the experience.

Streaming exclusively on Prime Video, Coolie is available in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada, making it accessible to viewers across linguistic regions. The film dropped at midnight, and within hours, social media was flooded with reactions, fan edits, and praise for Rajinikanth’s performance.

The Story: Deva’s Journey into the Shadows

At the heart of Coolie is Deva, played by Rajinikanth—a former coolie who now runs a boarding house in Chennai. His quiet life is shattered when his close friend Rajashekar is murdered under mysterious circumstances. Driven by grief and a thirst for justice, Deva begins to investigate the death, only to uncover a sinister organ trafficking racket run by a smuggler named Simon and his partner Dayal.

As Deva digs deeper, he realizes that the crime syndicate is not only connected to his past but also threatens the lives of those he holds dear. What follows is a gripping tale of vengeance, redemption, and raw emotion, set against the backdrop of Chennai’s underbelly. The narrative blends high-stakes action with moments of introspection, making Coolie more than just a commercial entertainer.

Rajinikanth’s Electrifying Performance

If there’s one reason Coolie became a phenomenon, it’s Rajinikanth. At 74, the superstar proves once again why he remains unmatched in charisma and screen presence. His portrayal of Deva is layered—equal parts vulnerable and ferocious. Whether he’s delivering punchy dialogues, engaging in stylized combat, or sharing quiet moments of grief, Rajinikanth commands attention in every frame.

The film also benefits from Lokesh Kanagaraj’s direction, which balances mass appeal with narrative depth. Known for his work in gritty action dramas, Kanagaraj brings a fresh lens to Rajinikanth’s persona, crafting a character that feels both iconic and grounded.

A Stellar Ensemble Cast

Coolie boasts one of the most impressive casts in recent Tamil cinema. Nagarjuna Akkineni and Soubin Shahir play the primary antagonists, bringing intensity and unpredictability to their roles. Shruti Haasan and Rachita Ram add emotional weight, while Sathyaraj delivers a memorable performance as a retired police officer with ties to Deva’s past.

The film also features cameo appearances by Upendra and Aamir Khan, both of which were kept under wraps until release. Their brief but impactful roles add to the film’s layered storytelling and fan appeal. Pooja Hegde and Kanna Ravi round out the cast, contributing to the film’s emotional and narrative arcs.

Technical Brilliance

Behind the scenes, Coolie is a technical marvel. Anirudh Ravichander’s music elevates the film’s emotional beats and action sequences, with tracks like “Thimiru Thirudathe” and “Deva’s Anthem” becoming instant chart-toppers. Girish Gangadharan’s cinematography captures the grit and grandeur of Chennai, while Philomin Raj’s editing ensures a tight, fast-paced narrative.

The action choreography deserves special mention. From hand-to-hand combat to explosive chase sequences, the film delivers adrenaline-pumping moments that are both stylish and brutal. The use of practical effects and minimal CGI adds authenticity, making the action feel grounded and visceral.

Not Part of the Lokesh Cinematic Universe

One of the most talked-about aspects of Coolie before its release was whether it would be part of the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU), which includes films like Kaithi and Vikram. Despite fan speculation, Coolie stands alone. Lokesh Kanagaraj has crafted an independent narrative that doesn’t rely on crossovers or shared timelines. This decision allows the film to focus entirely on Deva’s journey, without the distraction of universe-building.

Mixed Reviews, Massive Impact

While Coolie received mixed reviews from critics—some praising its emotional depth and others critiquing its pacing—the audience response was overwhelmingly positive. Fans celebrated Rajinikanth’s return to form, and the film’s box office numbers speak for themselves. With over ₹500 crore in global collections, Coolie is one of the highest-grossing Tamil films of all time.

Its OTT release is expected to further boost its popularity, especially among international audiences and younger viewers who prefer streaming over theatres. Prime Video’s global reach ensures that Coolie will be accessible in over 240 countries, making it a truly international release.

Cultural Significance

Beyond its commercial success, Coolie holds cultural significance. It marks Rajinikanth’s 50th year in cinema, a milestone few actors achieve. The film pays homage to his legacy while also introducing him to a new generation of viewers. Deva’s character is a nod to Rajinikanth’s early roles, blending nostalgia with modern storytelling.

The film also touches on social issues like organ trafficking, corruption, and the exploitation of laborers, adding layers of relevance to its narrative. While it remains a mass entertainer, Coolie doesn’t shy away from making a statement.

Final Thoughts

With its OTT debut on Prime Video, Coolie is set to reach new heights. Whether you’re a die-hard Rajinikanth fan or a casual viewer looking for a gripping action drama, this film delivers on all fronts. From its powerful performances and technical finesse to its emotional core and social commentary, Coolie is more than just a movie—it’s an experience.