A Record-Breaking Triumph in North America

Rajinikanth’s Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, has taken the global box office by storm, emerging as the second-highest-grossing Indian film of 2025 in North America with an impressive USD 6.22 million in just five days. This remarkable feat places it just behind Chhaava, a historical drama that earned USD 6.4 million over its entire theatrical run. The rapid success of Coolie underscores Rajinikanth’s enduring star power and the growing appetite for Tamil cinema in international markets. While Chhaava relied on its historical grandeur to captivate audiences, Coolie delivers high-octane action and mass appeal, highlighting the diverse storytelling that Indian cinema offers to global viewers.

The film’s meteoric rise in North America is a testament to its pre-release buzz, driven by record-breaking advance bookings that surpassed USD 1.7 million before its premiere. This frenzy, fueled by Rajinikanth’s loyal fanbase and the promise of a star-studded spectacle, saw Coolie outpace even Lokesh Kanagaraj’s previous hit, Leo, in premiere day sales. Despite competing with War 2, another major release, Coolie dominated pre-sales and set new benchmarks for Tamil films in the region, cementing its status as a cinematic juggernaut.

Rajinikanth’s Unmatched Global Stardom

At 74, Rajinikanth continues to defy expectations, proving that his charisma and screen presence remain unparalleled. Coolie marks his 50th year in cinema, a milestone celebrated with a film that perfectly captures his signature swagger and mass appeal. Fans across the globe, from Tamil Nadu to North America, flocked to theaters, drawn by the superstar’s ability to command the screen. Social media posts on X hailed his performance, with one fan describing Coolie as a “pure mass” experience, elevated by Rajinikanth’s aura and Lokesh’s stylish direction. This global adoration underscores why Rajinikanth is not just a star but a cultural phenomenon, capable of drawing massive crowds regardless of mixed reviews.

The film’s ensemble cast, featuring Nagarjuna as a formidable antagonist, Shruti Haasan as a standout performer, and Aamir Khan in a much-hyped cameo, added to its allure. Contributions from Soubin Shahir, Upendra, and Sathyaraj further enriched the narrative, creating a pan-Indian appeal that resonated across linguistic and cultural boundaries. Anirudh Ravichander’s electrifying soundtrack amplified the film’s energy, making it a theatrical experience that fans couldn’t resist.

Mixed Reviews, Unstoppable Momentum

Despite its box office dominance, Coolie received mixed word-of-mouth. Some praised its high-energy action sequences and Rajinikanth’s magnetic presence, with early reviews calling it his “best since Kabali.” Others, however, criticized its plot holes and weaker second half, with one netizen on X lamenting its lack of family-oriented elements compared to Rajinikanth’s Jailer. The Hindu described it as a “dull crime drama” that failed to fully deliver on the promised Rajinikanth-Lokesh synergy. Yet, these critiques did little to slow Coolie’s momentum. In India, the film grossed ₹206 crore in just five days, surpassing Chhaava’s opening day collection of ₹31 crore and setting a new standard for Tamil cinema in 2025. Its ability to maintain strong occupancy—87% in Tamil, 91% in Telugu, and 36% in Hindi—reflects its broad appeal across diverse audiences.

Action vs. Historical Drama: Indian Cinema’s Global Reach

Coolie and Chhaava represent two distinct facets of Indian cinema’s global appeal. While Coolie thrives on its gritty, action-packed narrative, centered on a retired coolie confronting a crime syndicate, Chhaava captivates with its historical grandeur, weaving a tale of a Maratha warrior’s valor. This contrast highlights the versatility of Indian cinema, which can deliver both adrenaline-fueled entertainers and emotionally resonant period dramas. Chhaava’s success, with USD 6.4 million in North America, showcased Bollywood’s ability to craft compelling historical narratives, while Coolie’s rapid ascent underscores Tamil cinema’s growing influence abroad. Together, they illustrate how Indian films, regardless of genre, are finding a foothold in international markets, driven by star power and universal storytelling.

A Milestone for Tamil Cinema

Coolie’s global success, with over ₹320 crore worldwide in just three days, marks a historic moment for Tamil cinema. It not only outgrossed major Bollywood releases like Sitaare Zameen Par and Housefull 5 but also became the fastest Tamil film to reach ₹300 crore globally, surpassing Leo’s record. This achievement reflects the increasing acceptance of South Indian films in markets traditionally dominated by Bollywood. The film’s ability to draw crowds despite piracy leaks and a box office clash with War 2 speaks to its unstoppable appeal and Rajinikanth’s enduring legacy.

Conclusion

Coolie is more than a box office phenomenon; it’s a celebration of Rajinikanth’s global stardom and the diversity of Indian cinema. Its rapid success in North America, coupled with its massive India collections, showcases the power of a well-crafted action drama to transcend borders. While Chhaava highlights the emotional depth of historical storytelling, Coolie delivers raw, massy entertainment that resonates with fans worldwide. As Indian cinema continues to expand its global reach, films like Coolie prove that with the right mix of star power, vision, and spectacle, the possibilities are limitless.

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