Lokesh Kanagaraj Acknowledges Coolie Criticism, Focuses on Future Projects

Director Lokesh Kanagaraj has publicly addressed the mixed reception of his recent film *Coolie*, starring Rajinikanth. Speaking to reporters, Kanagaraj acknowledged the criticisms leveled against the film and stated his intention to learn from the experience in his future projects. Despite the critical feedback, *Coolie* achieved significant commercial success, reportedly grossing ₹500 crore worldwide. Kanagaraj expressed gratitude for the audience's support, attributing the film's box office performance to Rajinikanth's star power.

Earlier this year, at a conclave held by SSVM Institutions in Coimbatore, Kanagaraj touched upon the challenges of meeting audience expectations. He emphasized his commitment to writing stories that align with his creative vision, rather than being driven by external pressure. "I can never write stories based on higher expectations. I write a story…if it meets their expectations, I’m good. If it doesn’t, I will try—that’s it," he said, highlighting his pragmatic approach to filmmaking.

*Coolie*, released earlier this year, features an ensemble cast including Rajinikanth, Nagarjuna, Soubin Shahir, Shruti Haasan, and Sathyaraj. The film narrates the story of Deva (Rajinikanth), a former coolie union leader who investigates the death of his friend Rajasekhar (Sathyaraj), leading him into conflict with gangster Simon (Nagarjuna) and his associate Dayal (Soubin Shahir). The film's release coincided with that of *War 2*, creating a box office clash that *Coolie* successfully navigated.

Kanagaraj's career has been marked by a string of commercially and critically successful films, establishing him as a prominent figure in contemporary Tamil cinema. His previous works, known for their intricate narratives and action sequences, have garnered a dedicated fanbase. This makes the mixed reception of *Coolie* a noteworthy moment in his career. His willingness to publicly address criticism and commit to improvement is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his understanding of the evolving expectations of his audience. The film's success, despite the criticisms, underscores the enduring appeal of Rajinikanth and the power of star-driven vehicles in Indian cinema. Kanagaraj's future projects will be closely watched to see how he incorporates the lessons learned from *Coolie* and continues to evolve as a filmmaker.

Editor’s note: This article was independently written by the Scoopliner Editorial Team using publicly available information.