Rajinikanth’s Coolie Rated A — What’s Behind the Risky Move?

In a shocking and headline-grabbing development, Rajinikanth’s much-anticipated action drama ‘Coolie’ has been bestowed an ‘A’ rating (Adults Only) by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Sun Pictures released this surprising news on August 2, 2025.

This update is more than just the routine film rating news; it brings a shift in narrative for the actor and the filmmaker. For decades, Rajinikanth has been synonymous with and the face of family friendly cinema in Tamil Nadu, and now, with this film, the actor is venturing into new territory. The discussions, speculation, and debates sparked by the ‘A’ rating suggest it is not as straightforward as it sounds.

Why the 'A' Tag Feels Like a Game Changer

It’s rare for a Rajinikanth film not to bear a U or U/A rating, but ‘Coolie’ is an anomaly. As reported, the board is said to be standing firm on their decision because of the film’s patented bold violence, blunt depiction of narrative, and emotionally dramatic scenes which director Lokesh Kanagaraj refused to dilute.

A Rajinikanth film has received an A certificate for the first time in over 36 years. Naan Sigappu Manithan and Netrikkan were his last adult-rated films. For those who have followed the superstar for decades, high-energy entertainers and social dramas feel like a bold new experiment. 

Director Lokesh Kanagaraj is known for his hits Kaithi and Vikram. He has never had a film certified ‘A’ before either. Lokesh has gone on the record saying he didn’t want to hold back on violence, dark themes, or psychological depth and would prefer a safer rating. 

#Coolie censored 🅰️ #Coolie releasing worldwide August 14th 🔥@rajinikanth @Dir_Lokesh @anirudhofficial #AamirKhan @iamnagarjuna @nimmaupendra #SathyaRaj #SoubinShahir @shrutihaasan @hegdepooja @anbariv @girishganges @philoedit @ArtSathees @iamSandy_Off @Dir_Chandhru… pic.twitter.com/p2z6GEOb6K

— Sun Pictures (@sunpictures) August 1, 2025

So, what’s really in Coolie that made the CBFC draw the line? Is the film overloaded with over-the-top action? Does it explore the world’s dark underbelly and shrouded secrets? The film is shrouded in a lot of secrecy regarding its details, which has only fueled this discussion; this coupled with its A rating only adds to the allure.

What We Know About the Plot, Cast, and Rising Suspense

In Coolie, Rajinikanth’s character Deva is a dockworker and a sinister figure in a corrupt world of work and crime. From the beginning, the story seems to hint at a narrative of a class conflict accompanied by betrayal of trust and shedding of a fiery rebirth, all layered in violence and emotional turmoil.

In addition to the tag line that follows Rajinikanth, the film has a star studded comast that includes:

• Nagarjuna, known for his mass appeal across Telugu cinema.
• Upendra, a Kannada superstar with a flair for intense roles.
• Sathyaraj, returning to share screen space with Rajinikanth after nearly 38 years.
• Along with Shruti Haasan and Soubin Shahir who seem to have given the role appropriate their youthful and emotional stamina packed approach.

Aamir Khan emerges as a surprising special appearance, and is said to play a character that has the potential to connect to some darker and hidden plot of the film. He is suggested to play Dahaa and insiders hint that he has the potential to become a character that has the potential to connect to some darker plot of the film.

Anirudh Ravichander has composed the soundtrack for the film and it is already garnering some attention. Reportedly, one of the songs, Powerhouse, made Rajinikanth a fan of it. Also, Lokesh openly accepted adding Monica, a late production feature with Pooja Hegde, for the “commercial balance” of the film.  

Public Reaction and What It Means for Rajinikanth’s Career

Responses to the film’s A rating have included a mix of excitement, curiosity and shock all at the same time. Social media has fans asking why the film would receive a rating such like and if they are to expect a new side to their “Thalaivar” character.  

Some people are perceiving it as a “risky move” while equally praising Rajinikanth for stepping outside his comfort zone. A star in his seventies attempting to reimagine his on screen persona as a daring and potentially controversial character is a move that deepens his already iconic status.

#Coolie - First ever 🅰️ certified from LokeshKanagaraj 🔥
And that too with superstar #Rajinikanth who is loved by Kids & Families 🤞

A Bold Move from the team, doesn't want to compromise on content at all👏 pic.twitter.com/3dk5unQPZX

— AmuthaBharathi (@CinemaWithAB) August 1, 2025

Even for trade experts, footage from Coolie, slated for release alongside highly anticipated Hindi films such as War 2, has certainly piqued their interest, considering it's the first look any of us will be getting from the movie. Does having an A rating curb the viewership for the movie, or will it have the opposite effect, as the younger audience looks for raw and edgy content? 

Release Date and Record-Breaking Pre-Sales

The pre-booking revenue from North America already suggests that demand for Coolie is unprecedented as it is on track to become one of the highest grossing Tamil films of all time. Not to be hindered, the film is also set to release in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi and Kannada on the 14th of August in 2025. 

The distinguished Rajinikanth too has synched the trailer and audio release for the 2nd of August and from the information that has surfaced, it comes to it seems that Rajinikanth's movies are in for a shake up as the new narrative framework incorporates - darker visuals, intense blasting sounds and layered narrative filled with suspense. 

The film’s success could set a new tone not just for Rajinikanth's career but for the entire Tamil film industry and pave the way for more audacious and provocative stories.

Source(Image / Thumbnail): newsbytesapp.com