No CG Shots in Coolie: Lokesh Kanagaraj

Coolie is one of the most talked-about films not just in Tamil cinema right now, and every small update is drawing attention. Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj and starring Superstar Rajinikanth, the film has created strong buzz since its title announcement. The movie marks the first collaboration between Lokesh and Rajinikanth, and expectations are high from fans and moviegoers. While audiences have become used to big-ticket films relying heavily on visual effects, Lokesh’s latest statement suggests Coolie is taking a different route.

Speaking during a recent interaction, Lokesh Kanagaraj clarified that Coolie will not feature any computer-generated (CG) shots. He revealed that the use of a green mat was limited to under one minute of screen time and was done only due to unavoidable reasons. Importantly, he confirmed that all the scenes involving Rajinikanth and the rest of the cast were shot in real locations. He also added that none of the action sequences involved green mat usage.

This update comes as a welcome change at a time when many big films are being criticized for looking artificial or overdone with VFX. In recent years, audience fatigue has set in due to excessive reliance on computer graphics. Now, there’s renewed excitement around movies shot in natural settings, offering a grounded and visually authentic experience.

Coolie promises to bring back that old-school cinematic texture, and this decision to avoid CG-heavy visuals could add a layer of realism and grit that fans have been missing. This choice to keep things real might end up being one of the film’s strongest assets. With Rajinikanth in the lead and Lokesh Kanagaraj at the helm, the film is already one of the most anticipated projects in South Indian cinema, set for release on August 14.

The ensemble cast also includes Nagarjuna, Aamir Khan, Upendra, Soubin and others, making this a rare alignment of stars working together in real-time locations.