'Coolie' first day reactions: Fans celebrate Rajinikanth’s return, critics divided

Rajinikanth’s Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, has finally hit the big screens — and the frenzy is very, very real. From fan clubs bursting crackers at Indian theatres to international audiences showing up in full force, Day 1 has been nothing short of a spectacle. X (formerly Twitter) is in overdrive, with reactions swinging wildly between glowing praise and pointed criticism.

Early reviews are pouring in from every corner, and the verdict is mixed. Some are calling it a “blockbuster”, while others feel it “could’ve been tighter". But one thing’s for sure: it has sparked a cultural moment.

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According to reports online, Coolie became the first Tamil film to cross $2 million in premiere sales in North America, surpassing records set by Kabali, Leo, and Ponniyin Selvan.

On ground, the madness has been palpable. Outside Chennai’s Rohini Theatre, fans lit fireworks, poured milk over Rajinikanth cut-outs, and broke into celebratory dances.

Amidst all this, Aamir Khan’s cameo is also emerging as a crowd favourite.

“Aamir Khan’s cameo = Best of the year. Story could’ve been tighter, but Rajinikanth carries the whole show on his shoulders," a post on X stated.

Nagarjuna, too, is being widely praised for his villainous role, called “the backbone of the film”.

Another account posted, “Rajinikanth is BACK — bloodier, darker & deadlier than ever! Lokesh Kanagaraj delivers a violent mass masterpiece with soul… surprise LCU twist!”

But not everyone’s sold. “Extreme violence suffocates. Something didn’t blend with multistars. My #cooliereview 2.5/5 — sorry Thalaiva," stated a contrasting view on X.

Despite the mixed reviews, the box office has been on fire. And whether we loved it or expected more, we're definitely talking about it.

Written by

Khaleej Times Staff