Superstar Rajinikanth is back, and this time, he’s wielding a sword, delivering punch dialogues, and pushing cinematic boundaries once again with Coolie. Directed by the acclaimed Lokesh Kanagaraj, the teaser of Coolie dropped like a cinematic bomb, quickly going viral and generating massive buzz. But what truly grabbed attention was not just Rajinikanth’s powerful screen presence—it was the film’s ‘A’ certification by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). This marks a bold return for the Superstar into adult-rated cinema after an astonishing 36-year gap.
In a film industry where top stars often avoid ‘A’ rated films to retain their universal appeal, Rajinikanth’s Coolie stands out. Let’s explore why this is a significant moment and take a closer look at the rare instances in which the Thalaivar took on ‘A’ certified roles.
‘Coolie’: A Dark, Violent Rajinikanth Returns
The teaser of Coolie reveals a gritty, stylized world where Rajinikanth plays a rugged, no-nonsense protagonist. With heavy metal music, intense violence, and the symbolic lifting of a gold bar (a nod to the emotional and literal “burden” of the working class), the film promises to be a hard-hitting action drama.
The ‘A’ certificate suggests a stark departure from the mass-friendly, family-entertainer roles Rajinikanth has been associated with in recent decades. Lokesh Kanagaraj, known for his hyper-realistic action thrillers like Kaithi and Vikram, is bringing Rajini into his signature universe—brutal, bloody, and unapologetically raw.
Why the ‘A’ Certificate Matters for coolie
In Indian cinema, especially Tamil cinema, ‘A’ certified films are often perceived as niche or limited in reach. Mainstream stars tend to avoid them to ensure maximum box-office appeal across age groups. Rajinikanth’s decision to headline Coolie, knowing it carries an adult rating, underscores his willingness to experiment and redefine his on-screen legacy, even at 73.
The last time Rajinikanth starred in an ‘A’ certified film was in 1988, making Coolie his first adult-rated venture in over three decades.
Rajinikanth’s Previous ‘A’ Certified Films – A Recap
- Moondru Mugam (1982)
One of Rajinikanth’s most iconic triple-role performances, Moondru Mugam was certified ‘A’ due to its graphic violence and emotional intensity. His portrayal of Alex Pandian remains legendary. - Johnny (1980)
Though more of a psychological drama, Johnny earned an ‘A’ certificate due to its dark themes and emotionally complex characters. It showcased Rajini’s acting depth beyond action and comedy. - Kai Kodukkum Kai (1984)
A heavy drama involving mature themes, this film pushed the boundaries of Rajini’s clean entertainer image at the time. - Thappu Thalangal (1978)
Directed by K. Balachander, this bold film depicted the life of a thug and a sex worker. Rajinikanth’s performance was raw and layered—earning the film an ‘A’ for its bold content. - Aarilirunthu Arubathu Varai (1979)
Though emotionally rich and socially relevant, the intense depiction of a man’s suffering and adult themes earned it an adult rating.
While Rajinikanth’s career transitioned into more mass-appeal, family-oriented films in the late ‘80s and beyond (Baasha, Padayappa, Sivaji), his early filmography is marked by strong, sometimes controversial performances in films that didn’t shy away from social reality and emotional depth.
Rajinikanth’s Evolution – From Mass Hero to Mature Risk-Taker
Coolie signals a full-circle moment in Rajinikanth’s cinematic journey. After decades of superstardom driven by family-friendly entertainers and punch-packed dialogues, he is returning to the darker, more realistic storytelling he began with.
Partnering with Lokesh Kanagaraj, a director who has proven his mastery of gritty action, seems like a calculated move to align the Superstar with today’s evolving cinematic tastes. In an era where OTT and multiplex audiences crave depth, raw emotion, and grounded storytelling, Coolie could very well redefine how action films are made in Tamil cinema.
With Coolie, Rajinikanth has taken a bold leap, breaking away from formula and comfort. The ‘A’ certificate is not a limitation—it is a badge of creative freedom, something the Superstar is embracing after decades of playing it safe for a broader audience.
As fans await the release with bated breath, one thing is clear: Coolie is not just a film—it’s a statement. The Superstar is not done experimenting, and he’s not done surprising us.
