Vijay’s journey in Kollywood cinema has been defined by performances that quietly reshaped how audiences perceived him, not just as a star, but as an actor capable of depth, restraint, and emotional honesty.

Perhaps with that, let’s look at the roles which has been etched in our heart till date. 

In Kadhalukku Mariyadhai, Vijay delivered what would become a defining moment in his career. Under Fazil’s sensitive direction and accompanied by Ilaiyaraaja’s soulful music, he portrayed a young man in love with remarkable simplicity. Far removed from the louder, larger-than-life roles he would later embrace, this performance was grounded in sincerity and emotional truth. The film’s success established Vijay as a romantic hero and redefined contemporary love stories in Tamil cinema, making him a household name.

Thullatha Manamum Thullum further showcased Vijay’s ability to convey vulnerability. As Kutty, an innocent singer burdened by a tragic past, he relied not on heroics but on quiet emotion. Director Ezhil’s sombre storytelling allowed Vijay to explore pain, longing, and hope with restraint. His portrayal especially the heartbreaking moment when he breaks down alone after learning of his mother’s death, remains one of his most affecting performances, cementing his on-screen pairing with Simran as deeply memorable.

With Kaththi, Vijay dismantled the perception that he was limited to mass roles. The film stood as a benchmark in his career, not merely for its success but for the contrast he brought to two characters who shared a face but lived entirely different lives. His portrayal of the principled social activist Jeevanandham was measured and deeply human, standing in stark contrast to the impulsive Kathiresan. The press meet sequence revealed a performer capable of commanding silence and emotion with conviction.

In Theri, Vijay was portrayed as a former police officer forced into hiding to protect his daughter. The film’s emotional strength lay in its portrayal of fatherhood, and Vijay balanced stylised action with genuine warmth. His performance resonated with audiences, turning the film into a blockbuster driven as much by emotion as spectacle.

Ghilli as Velu, a gifted kabaddi player, Vijay brought athleticism, courage, and youthful energy to the screen. The film’s impact extended beyond cinema, inspiring many young fans to take up the sport. A remake of the Telugu hit Okkadu, Ghilli went on to become a historic success, emerging as the first Tamil film to cross ₹50 crore at the domestic box office and completing a remarkable theatrical run.

In Shajahan, Vijay returned to tragedy with a performance that remains close to the hearts of many. The film explored love, loss, and emotional restraint, allowing Vijay to move audiences effortlessly between tears and smiles. What a movie, guys!

Priyamanavaley presented Vijay in a refreshing romantic space, offering a narrative that stood apart from conventional storytelling of its time. His chemistry with Simran and the film’s modern approach to relationships made it a memorable entry in early-2000s Tamil cinema.

Friends celebrated camaraderie over conflict, with Vijay and Suriya delivering performances rooted in warmth and humour. The film captured the essence of friendship with sincerity, complemented by sharp comedy and emotional beats that made it a lasting favourite.

Together, these films reflect Vijay’s evolution from a sensitive romantic lead to a performer capable of balancing mass appeal with emotional depth. Long before the spotlight, these pivotal roles laid the foundation for a remarkable legacy. 

Image Credit : Cinema Express , IMDb , Actor Vijay , The News Minute , IMDb Priyamanavale (2000) , Reddit