The highly anticipated Independence Day box office clash has a clear winner in the early hours, as Rajinikanth’s “Coolie” has surged ahead of “War 2” in both collection and critical reception. While Hrithik Roshan and Jr. NTR’s spy thriller is receiving mixed to negative reviews, citing it as the weakest film in the YRF Spy Universe, “Coolie,” directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, is receiving a phenomenal response and is on track to set new box office records.
According to trade reports from industry tracker Sacnilk, “Coolie” is leaving “War 2” far behind in the race, with its morning shows showing much better occupancy.
“Coolie” Takes a Commanding Lead in Early Box Office Figures
The numbers speak for themselves. Sacnilk reports that as of 1 PM on its first day, “Coolie” has amassed a staggering ₹23 crore in India net collections. This is a massive lead over “War 2,” which has collected approximately ₹14 crore in the same period. This strong start for “Coolie” is a testament to the immense star power of Rajinikanth and the massive fan following for director Lokesh Kanagaraj, who is known for his unique cinematic universe. The film, which also features Nagarjuna Akkineni and a cameo by Aamir Khan, has seen phenomenal occupancy rates, particularly in South India, with shows running at nearly full capacity.
Trade analysts are predicting a record-breaking first day for “Coolie,” with early estimates suggesting a collection in the range of ₹80-100 crore. In stark contrast, “War 2” is expected to finish its first day with a collection of around ₹35-40 crore, a figure that, while respectable, falls short of the massive expectations from a franchise film. This trend, if it continues, could mark one of the biggest box office clashes in recent memory, with “Coolie” emerging as the clear winner.
“War 2” Receives Mixed to Negative Reviews
While “War 2” had a great deal of pre-release hype, with its star-studded cast and its place in the popular YRF Spy Universe, the film is failing to live up to expectations. Early reviews from critics and audiences have been mixed to negative, with many calling it the weakest installment in the franchise. The film is being criticized for its predictable storyline, weak screenplay, and inconsistent pacing. Social media is rife with fans who are disappointed with the film’s second half, which is being called a “strictly mediocre action thriller” that “lacks emotional connect.”
The film’s VFX, particularly in key action sequences, is also coming under fire, with some users calling it “downright shameful” and comparing it to “PlayStation 3 video games.” Despite the on-screen presence of superstars Hrithik Roshan and Jr. NTR, who are praised for their dance-off and action, the film’s overall execution seems to have missed the mark, leaving many fans feeling underwhelmed.
“Coolie” Delivers on Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Promise
On the other hand, “Coolie” is being lauded for delivering exactly what was promised: a high-octane, vintage Rajinikanth-style action entertainer. Lokesh Kanagaraj, who directed the film, has been praised for his masterful direction and for bringing out a new, more intense side of the superstar. The film’s screenplay, while being a classic revenge plot, is being praised for its twists and turns that keep the audience engaged. The music, especially the background score by Anirudh Ravichander, is also being celebrated as a major highlight.
The film’s early reviews highlight Rajinikanth’s “vintage swag,” and “power-packed performance,” with many calling it a “one-man show.” The presence of a strong supporting cast, including Nagarjuna as the formidable villain and a memorable cameo by Aamir Khan, has also been appreciated. The film’s reception has shown that even with a strong competitor, a powerful script and a charismatic star can pull in massive crowds.
With the initial box office reports and reviews heavily favouring “Coolie,” it is clear that the film has taken a commanding lead in this Independence Day weekend race. While “War 2” has a long way to go to recover, “Coolie” is on track to become one of the biggest blockbusters of the year.
