Coolie (2025): Advance Booking Soars, CBFC Rating Revealed

Rajinikanth's "Coolie" Sets Box Office Ablaze with Record-Breaking Advance Bookings and a Gritty 'A' Rating

The air is thick with anticipation as Superstar Rajinikanth's latest collaboration with director Lokesh Kanagaraj, "Coolie," prepares for its worldwide release on August 14. The film has already proven to be a juggernaut, shattering advance booking records both in India and internationally, while also sparking widespread conversation over its unexpected "A" certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The numbers are staggering, and the buzz is at an all-time high, signaling a potentially historic opening for the Tamil cinema legend.

A Box Office Juggernaut on the Rise

"Coolie" has not just met expectations; it has surpassed them with a force that is rarely seen in Indian cinema. Just days before its theatrical debut, the film has already amassed a phenomenal ₹50 crore in worldwide advance bookings. This figure is not just impressive, it's a testament to Rajinikanth's enduring star power and the immense hype surrounding his partnership with Lokesh Kanagaraj, a director known for his distinctive and high-octane cinematic universe.

The international market, particularly North America, has been a key driver of this success. The film's premiere advance sales in North America have already crossed a massive ₹14 crore (USD 1.7 million), with the USA alone contributing over ₹12 crore. This landmark achievement has already eclipsed the premiere day record of Lokesh Kanagaraj's previous blockbuster, "Leo," which had grossed USD 1.3 million. The total overseas collection currently stands at an estimated ₹41 crore, a number that has already surpassed the lifetime foreign earnings of films like Kamal Haasan's "Thug Life," underscoring the film's incredible global reach.

Domestically, the advance booking numbers are equally thrilling. With phased bookings having just opened, "Coolie" has already locked in ₹14 crore in advance sales across India, with a substantial ₹10 crore designated for the opening day alone. These figures have already surpassed Rajinikanth’s own pre-sales record set by his film "Jailer," which had collected ₹18 crore in total. With a few days still left, trade analysts predict that the film could easily double its current domestic figures, setting the stage for one of the biggest opening days in the history of Indian cinema.

The 'A' Certificate: A First in 36 Years

In a significant move that has become a major talking point, the CBFC has awarded "Coolie" with an "A" certificate. This marks a historic moment, as it is the first time in 36 years that a Rajinikanth film has received this rating. The certification is a clear indication of the film's intense, mature content, particularly its gritty action and violent sequences, which are hallmarks of director Lokesh Kanagaraj's filmmaking style.

The news has been met with a mix of excitement and concern. While fans of Lokesh Kanagaraj's cinematic universe, known as the LCU, are thrilled to see a no-holds-barred action thriller, a section of Rajinikanth's fan base has expressed concern that the "A" rating may deter family audiences and younger viewers. Social media has seen a surge in requests for the filmmakers to consider a "U/A" version for a wider release, highlighting the dual-edged nature of this certification. However, the trailer, which has been widely praised for its raw energy and vintage Rajinikanth persona, has already cemented the film's appeal to an audience hungry for an uncompromising action experience.

The Pan-Indian Star Cast and Trailer Buzz

Beyond the record-breaking numbers and the CBFC rating, "Coolie's" immense hype is also fueled by its stellar, pan-Indian cast. The film features a formidable ensemble including Telugu superstar Nagarjuna, Kannada actor Upendra, and Malayalam actor Soubin Shahir in pivotal roles. The addition of Bollywood icon Aamir Khan in a much-hyped cameo has further heightened the film's appeal across different languages and regions.

The trailer, which was released at a grand audio launch event, has been met with a rapturous response from fans. It showcases a vintage, stylish, and action-packed Rajinikanth, reminding audiences of his legendary on-screen charisma. The trailer’s dark, intense visuals and Lokesh Kanagaraj’s signature style have promised a cinematic treat that is both a tribute to the superstar's legacy and a fresh, gritty take on the action genre.

"Coolie" is poised for an unprecedented opening, and all eyes are on whether this powerful combination of Rajinikanth's stardom and Lokesh Kanagaraj's vision will translate into a new benchmark for Indian box office success. The film’s clash with Hrithik Roshan and Jr. NTR’s "War 2" adds another layer of excitement, setting up a high-stakes box office battle. The stage is set for a historic cinematic event, and the anticipation is palpable.