Thamizhan (2002)

Thamizhan is a Tamil action drama that marked an early phase of Vijay’s career, where he plays a principled law student who strongly believes in justice and social responsibility.

Thamizhan (2002)

Thamizhan is a Tamil action drama that marked an early phase of Vijay’s career, where he plays a principled law student who strongly believes in justice and social responsibility.

The film deals with national security and anti-terror policy, presenting Vijay as a protector of the state.

Thalaiva (2013)

Directed by Vijay, the film follows an Australian dancer who is compelled to return to India to take over his father’s syndicate and stand up for the oppressed. Thalaivaa also drew attention for its delayed release, during which Vijay and his father S. A. Chandrasekar sought intervention from then Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa, after controversy reportedly arose over the tagline “Time to Lead.”

Kaththi (2014)

Kaththi is a politically charged action drama that highlights issues like corporate exploitation of farmers and water resource injustice. Vijay plays a dual role, including a look-alike of a social activist, where he uses his influence to raise awareness.

Mersal (2017)

Vijay plays three roles, including a doctor who exposes corruption in the medical system and illegal practices in private healthcare. The film highlights issues like medical malpractice, greed in healthcare, and the importance of accessible treatment for all.

Sarkar (2018)

In Sarkar (2018), Vijay plays Sundar Ramaswamy, a powerful and influential entrepreneur who returns to India briefly just to exercise his right to vote. 

When he discovers that his vote has already been fraudulently cast, he takes on the system, challenging the authorities and exposing flaws in the electoral process.

Beast (2022)

Vijay plays Veera Raghavan, a former RAW agent, in Beast. In the political context, his character represents the state’s covert machinery dealing with terrorism and national security threats. When a mall is hijacked, he steps in as a one-man force, navigating bureaucratic delays and political pressure.

Bigil (2019)

Vijay plays Michael “Bigil” Rayappan in Bigil, a former footballer turned coach who uplifts a struggling women’s team. While the film is rooted in sports drama, it carries a social-political undertone by addressing issues like gender inequality, empowerment, and systemic neglect of women’s sports.

Master (2021)

Vijay portrays JD, a troubled, alcoholic college professor who is sent to teach for three months at a juvenile detention center. There, he confronts Bhavani, a powerful and merciless gangster who exploits the detained children to carry out his criminal operations.