Rajinikanth's latest film Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, released last year in August opened in theatres amid much anticipation and earned over Rs 500 crore at the box office worldwide. But it was met with mixed reviews from audiences and critics. Later, following its OTT release, the action thriller earned massive criticism for its storyline and screenplay, which was followed by an influx of memes on social media.
Recollecting the time and reflecting on the reasons behind the film receiving collective disapproval from audiences, screenwriter-turned-director Rathna Kumar said, "Lokesh Kanagaraj’s usual tropes like old songs, cameos, and a multi-starrer setup were all there. All of it was interesting by itself. "Much like the ‘Narabali’ (human sacrifice) aspect in Leo, the body disposal concept in Coolie felt a bit unusual. I felt it might create a sense of disconnect for the audience. Hence, we underplayed the idea like a gimmick. I told Lokesh that audiences might expect something more from him."
He further explained how audiences had become used stars making unexpected cameos and the trope of using old songs in films following its role in movies like Good Bad Ugly and Mark Antony. "It had become a tiring trope by then. This might have led to severe criticism. When I was inside, I didn't know anything. Only when I came outside, I knew people were getting triggered by the smallest of scenes. It later becomes a chain reaction," he added.
Rathna Kumar also mentioned how Lokesh Kanagaraj speaking about his film openly and discussing his salary had added to the negativity. "Lokesh has addressed it all in Allu Arjun's AA23. All these tropes aren't there in the upcoming film," he said, excitedly.
Coolie starred Nagarjuna, Soubin Shahir, Upendra, Shruti Haasan, Sathyaraj, Rachita Ram with Aamir Khan and Pooja Hegde in special appearances. In the film, a former coolie union leader investigates the death of his friend which leads him to a crime syndicate.
Lokesh too addressed the criticisms, saying, "Whenever there is criticism for a film from the audience, it is important to accept it. At the same time, beyond all the criticism, many saw the film for Rajinikanth sir. I must also express my gratitude to them."
Rathna Kumar is currently awaiting the release of his directorial 29, starring Vidhu and Preethi Asrani in leading roles. It is set to hit theatres on May 8.
