A Director’s Financial Acumen Shines

In the high-stakes world of Indian cinema, where budgets often spiral out of control, director Lokesh Kanagaraj has earned accolades for his disciplined approach to filmmaking. Telugu superstar Nagarjuna Akkineni, who plays the antagonist Simon in the upcoming action thriller Coolie, recently praised Kanagaraj for completing the film under budget, saving a remarkable ₹5 crore for the producers, Sun Pictures. Speaking at a pre-release event in Hyderabad, Nagarjuna highlighted Kanagaraj’s ability to manage a massive production while keeping costs in check, a rare feat in the industry. This financial discipline, combined with Kanagaraj’s creative vision, has heightened anticipation for Coolie, set to release on August 14, 2025.

Exceptional Clarity and Efficiency

Nagarjuna didn’t hold back in commending Kanagaraj’s clarity of thought and efficient filmmaking style. He shared an anecdote from the film’s final shooting schedule in Bangkok, where Kanagaraj revealed that despite the generous budget provided by Sun Pictures, ₹5 crore remained unspent after wrapping the shoot. “For such a big film, this is fantastic,” Nagarjuna remarked, noting that producers wouldn’t have questioned Kanagaraj even if he had overspent by ₹15 crore. Kanagaraj’s use of a six-camera setup, which allowed most scenes to be captured in a single take, further impressed Nagarjuna, who was amazed at the quality of his own performance in the final cut.

A Stellar Collaboration

Coolie, starring Rajinikanth as the lead character Deva, a former gold smuggler, boasts a star-studded ensemble including Nagarjuna, Sathyaraj, Shruti Haasan, Upendra Rao, and a cameo by Aamir Khan. Nagarjuna’s role as the antagonist Simon was a bold choice, and he credited Kanagaraj’s persistence for convincing him to take it on. Initially hesitant to play a villain, Nagarjuna was won over after multiple script narrations, describing the experience as “liberating.” He also praised Kanagaraj for giving equal weight to both hero and villain, ensuring a compelling narrative.

Rajinikanth’s Heartwarming Gesture

Beyond Kanagaraj’s directorial prowess, Nagarjuna shared a touching story about Rajinikanth’s generosity during the Bangkok shoot. After a grueling 15-day schedule on a ship, Rajinikanth gifted money to all 350 crew members, encouraging them to buy something for their families. This act of kindness left a lasting impression on the team, further elevating the positive atmosphere on set.

A Blockbuster in the Making

With its high-octane action, gripping storyline, and a runtime of 2 hours and 48 minutes, Coolie promises to be a cinematic spectacle. Kanagaraj has teased that the film will surprise audiences, dispelling rumors of sci-fi or time-travel elements. As the film gears up for a global release in over 100 countries, Nagarjuna’s praise underscores Kanagaraj’s reputation as a director who blends creative excellence with fiscal responsibility, setting the stage for what could be one of 2025’s biggest hits.

Read Also: Raj B. Shetty’s Multitasking Magic: Balancing Acting, Scripting, and a Directorial Comeback

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!