Top 5 Movies of Thalapathy Vijay – The Reign of a Tamil Cinema Legend

Top 5 Movies of Thalapathy Vijay – The Reign of a Tamil Cinema Legend

Thalapathy Vijay 

A Deep Dive into the Best Films of the Mass Hero

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Introduction:

Thalapathy Vijay is more than just an actor—he's a cultural phenomenon in Tamil cinema. With a career spanning over two decades, Vijay has become one of the most beloved, charismatic, and bankable stars in South India. Known for his powerful screen presence, mass-appeal action scenes, dance moves, and socially-conscious roles, Vijay has amassed a fanbase that transcends language and region.

In this post, we explore the Top 5 all-time best movies of Thalapathy Vijay, analyzing why they stand out and how they contributed to his legacy.

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1. Master (2021)

Director: Lokesh Kanagaraj
Genre: Action / Thriller / Drama
Language: Tamil (Dubbed in multiple languages)
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10

Overview:

Master was one of the first major Indian blockbusters released in theaters post-COVID lockdown. Vijay played JD, an alcoholic but kind-hearted professor who gets sent to a juvenile reform school. There, he takes on the ruthless Bhaavani (played by Vijay Sethupathi).

Why It’s a Game-Changer:

• The Vijay vs. Vijay Sethupathi face-off is one of the most iconic matchups in Tamil cinema.
• JD is a flawed yet relatable hero, something rare in mainstream mass films.
• Stylish action, pulsating background score by Anirudh Ravichander, and an emotional story.
• A perfect balance of mass and class.

Box Office Success:

Despite the pandemic, Master grossed over Rs. 250 crore, becoming one of the highest-grossing Tamil films. It also revived the theater business in South India.

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2. Mersal (2017)

Director: Atlee
Genre: Action / Thriller / Drama
Language: Tamil
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10

Overview:

In Mersal, Vijay plays three roles—a magician, a doctor, and their father—in a story that revolves around medical corruption. The film uses a commercial format to tackle serious issues in Indian society.

Why Fans Love It:

• Triple roles allowed Vijay to showcase his versatility.
• Powerful social message wrapped in a mass entertainer.
• Songs like “Aalaporaan Tamizhan” became anthems.
• AR Rahman's electrifying music added grandeur.

Impact and Records:

Mersal was a mega hit, collecting over Rs. 260 crore worldwide. It became a political flashpoint and elevated Vijay’s status as “Thalapathy”, a leader-like figure in Tamil Nadu pop culture.

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3. Thuppakki (2012)

Director: A. R. Murugadoss
Genre: Action / Thriller
Language: Tamil
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10

Overview:

Vijay plays Jagadish, an Indian Army officer who returns home on vacation and ends up dismantling a sleeper terrorist cell in Mumbai. It’s a sleek, stylish thriller packed with tension, action, and patriotism.

Why It’s a Benchmark Film:

• Introduced urban mass heroism to Tamil cinema.
• The action sequences, dialogues, and screenplay were revolutionary for that time.
• The film's pacing and intelligence made it a pan-India favorite.
• The famous line: “I am waiting…” became a trend.

Box Office and Influence:

Thuppakki was a trailblazer, collecting over Rs. 180+ crore and influencing a generation of action thrillers. It marked the beginning of Murugadoss-Vijay’s successful partnership.

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4. Kaththi (2014)

Director: A. R. Murugadoss
Genre: Action / Drama / Social Commentary
Language: Tamil
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10

Overview:

Another gem from Vijay and Murugadoss, Kaththi sees Vijay in a dual role—one as a thief and the other as a water rights activist. The movie focuses on farmers' issues, corporate exploitation, and rural development.

Reasons for Its Classic Status:

• One of Vijay’s most critically acclaimed performances.
• Balances commercial elements with deep social messages.
• Soulful songs like “Selfie Pulla” and “Aathi” became chartbusters.
• Gripping courtroom scenes and emotional climaxes hit hard.

Success & Awards:

Kaththi was both a critical and commercial success, earning Rs. 130+ crore and sparking debates about water conservation and corporate land grabbing.

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5. Ghilli (2004)

Director: Dharani
Genre: Action / Romance / Sports
Language: Tamil
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10

Overview:

In Ghilli, Vijay plays Saravanavelu (Velu), a Kabaddi player who rescues a girl from a brutal villain and hides her at his home. It was a perfect mass entertainer and a milestone in Vijay’s early career.

Why It’s a Cult Classic:

• Defined the “mass hero” Vijay image.
• Songs like “Appadi Podu” are still wildly popular.
• Action, comedy, romance—all packed tightly into one rollercoaster ride.
• Prakash Raj as the villain Muthupandi is unforgettable.

Box Office Magic:

One of the biggest blockbusters of the 2000s, Ghilli made Vijay a superstar among the youth, especially in B and C centers. It’s still widely watched and quoted today.

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Honorable Mentions:

• Bigil (2019): Vijay plays both a football coach and a gangster father. It was a sports drama with strong social commentary.
• Sarkar (2018): A political action drama where Vijay plays a corporate CEO who enters politics.
• Pokkiri (2007): Mass commercial entertainer that redefined action tropes in Tamil cinema.
• Nanban (2012): Tamil remake of 3 Idiots, showcasing Vijay’s emotional and comedic range.
• Varisu (2023): A family drama that became a festival favorite.

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Conclusion:

Thalapathy Vijay’s journey from a romantic hero to a pan-India action star is nothing short of cinematic. His films are not just blockbusters—they're movements. Whether it’s fighting against injustice, delivering whistle-worthy punchlines, or dancing to the biggest chartbusters, Vijay brings passion and power to every role.

His movies blend entertainment, message, and mass appeal, making him one of the most impactful stars of Indian cinema.

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Which Thalapathy movie do you love the most? Share your thoughts below and follow for more South Indian cinema deep dives!
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