Coolie delivers a compelling narrative that balances emotional drama with social commentary. The story is straightforward yet engaging, with a screenplay that effectively captures the nuances of the protagonist's life and his interactions. The pacing is moderate, with the first half setting up the characters and their motivations well, while the second half intensifies the conflicts and resolutions in a satisfying manner.

The songs composed by Raveendran complement the film's tone, blending melodious tunes with situational relevance. The background score supports the emotional beats without overpowering the scenes, enhancing the overall cinematic experience. Cinematography by Ramesh Kumar captures the gritty yet vibrant atmosphere of the railway station and its surroundings, adding authenticity to the film.

While the film's narrative and technical aspects are commendable, some portions of the screenplay tend to be predictable, and the pacing could have been tighter in the middle segments. Nevertheless, the performances and music elevate the film, making it a memorable entry in Malayalam cinema of the early 1980s.

Mammootty: Strong and convincing portrayal of the protagonist, bringing depth and sincerity to the role.

Ratheesh: Effective in a supporting role, adding layers to the narrative.

Shankar: Solid performance contributing to the film's emotional core.

Lalu Alex: Provides good support with a natural screen presence.

Sreenivasan: Offers subtle comic relief and character nuance.

Nalini: Delivers a heartfelt performance in the female lead role.