During a recent interview with Bharadwaj Rangan, Lokesh Kanagaraj clarified several points regarding his upcoming film "Coolie," starring Rajinikanth. Here's a summary of the key clarifications:

Film's Identity & LCU:

• Standalone Film: "Coolie" is not part of the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU).

   

• No Kamal Haasan Acting: Kamal Haasan is not acting in "Coolie." Lokesh clarified that roles were specifically tailored for Rajinikanth.

Rajinikanth & Story:

• Quick Approval: Rajinikanth approved the film after hearing only the first half of the story.

   

• Gold Smuggling Focus: The plot revolves around gold smuggling, not drugs; there will be no drug scenes.

   

• No "Thee" Connection (Beyond Setting): There is no narrative connection to Rajinikanth's "Thee" movie/segment from "Thalapathy," other than sharing a similar harbor/labor backdrop.

   

• "Dharmadurai" Beard: Rajinikanth's beard look is referenced from his 1991 film "Dharmadurai."

   

• Respect for "Thalapathy": Lokesh will not "touch" the classic "Thalapathy," considering it a masterpiece, though he was complimented when Rajinikanth felt "Coolie" had a similar feel.

   

• Initial Villain Plan: Lokesh initially pitched a grander film with Rajinikanth as a villain, which Rajini approved. However, Lokesh pivoted to "Coolie" for a shorter production timeline and to align with his established directorial style, not wanting to commit Rajini to a very lengthy project.

Cast & Collaborations:

• Aamir Khan's Acceptance: Aamir Khan accepted his role without hesitation, primarily due to Rajinikanth's presence.

   

• Aamir's Meticulousness: Aamir is very particular and strives for perfection during shooting.

   

• Nagarjuna's Hesitation: Nagarjuna was initially hesitant to play the villain but was convinced by the importance and distinctiveness of his character.

Behind the Scenes & Personal Touches:

• Audience Expectation Over 1000 Cr: Lokesh Kanagaraj stated that he, and generally the crew, are not overly concerned about the $1000 crore club; audience enjoyment and providing value for the ticket price is the priority.

   

• Violence & Night Effect: Expect Lokesh's signature violence and predominantly night-time aesthetics.

   

• Emotional Connection for Family Audience: Despite the violence, Lokesh believes the film will have an emotional connection that will appeal to Rajinikanth's family audience, and they will like it.

   

• Lokesh's Fanboy Moment: Lokesh told Rajinikanth he was a Kamal Haasan fan upon their first meeting; Rajini playfully promised a reply at the audio launch.

   

• Family's Rajini Fandom: Lokesh revealed that all his family members are ardent Rajinikanth fans, except him (being a Kamal fan), but he still enjoys watching Rajinikanth's movies.

   

• Childhood Memory: His mother used to feed him while playing the song "Superstar Yarunnu Ketta" (a famous Rajinikanth tribute song).

   

• Kamal's Advice: Kamal Haasan advised Lokesh, as a fan of Kamal himself, to give his absolute best for Rajinikanth.

   

• Rajinikanth's Autobiography: Rajinikanth was writing his autobiography during the shoot and often shared personal moments and experiences with Lokesh.