Rajinikanth's Coolie gets Thalapathi treatment, fans call it '34 year challenge'

Rajinikanth

Superstar Rajinikanth has been an icon of Indian cinema for more than four decades. Even today, his name and face are enough to pull audiences to the theatre. Currently, the actor is gearing up for the release of Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. Marking the 100-day countdown to the film's release, the makers released a teaser.

Coolie 100 day countdown

One moment highlighted in the teaser by fans was the recreation of an iconic frame from the 1991 film Thalapathi. In the scene, Rajinikanth can be seen standing tall against the backdrop of a setting sun. Fans were elated to watch this due to its connection with the superstar's most popular film, which also earned him the title Thalapathi. Some fans called it a "34-year challenge" that proves he is still standing tall in the industry as an icon.

Thalapathi is a gangster drama written and directed by Mani Ratnam and produced by G. Venkateswaran. The film stars Rajinikanth and Mammootty, with Arvind Swamy in his feature-film debut, and Jaishankar, Amrish Puri, Srividya, Bhanupriya, Shobana, and Geetha in supporting roles.

Coolie to release on August 14

Recently, Sun Pictures, the production house backing the film, took to X to announce the release date.

They wrote, "Sound-ah yethu! Deva Varraaru. #Coolie worldwide from August 14th."

The film has triggered huge expectations for several reasons. It may be recalled that director Lokesh Kanagaraj, who wrapped up shooting the much-awaited action entertainer earlier this year, had said upon completion that he would cherish the amazing experience of making this film forever.

Coolie, which is expected to be an action thriller, will feature several top stars in addition to Rajinikanth, including Telugu star Nagarjuna, Kannada star Upendra, Malayalam star Soubin Shahir, and Tamil star Sathyaraj. Bollywood actor Aamir Khan is also believed to be playing a cameo in the film.

The film also features actors Shruti Haasan, Reba Monica John, and Junior MGR in pivotal roles.

Music is composed by Anirudh Ravichander, cinematography is by Girish Gangadharan, and editing is by Philomin Raj. The film is produced by Kalanithi Maran's Sun Pictures.

Coolie, Rajinikanth's 171st film, will revolve around gold smuggling. Interestingly, director Lokesh Kanagaraj has disclosed that Coolie will be a standalone film and not part of his Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU).