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