Tamil star Vijay, lovingly called Thalapathy by fans, turned 50 on Saturday. On the actor-politician’s birthday, here’s a look at five of his blockbuster films you can stream on OTT today.
Mersal
Streaming on: Netflix
Cast: Vijay, Nithya Menen, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Kajal Aggarwal
Helmed by Atlee, Mersal (2017) is an action thriller in which Thalapathy Vijay portrays a triple role — Vetrimaaran, a village healer; Maaran, a doctor in a metropolitan hospital; and Vetri, a magician seeking revenge. Each role allows Vijay to showcase different facets of his acting abilities. As Vetrimaaran, he portrays a compassionate and skilled healer who becomes entangled in a larger conspiracy. His portrayal of Maaran, a modern-day doctor committed to serving the underprivileged, highlights his earnestness and determination. Lastly, Vetri seeks justice through unconventional means.
Theri
Streaming on: Sun NXT
Cast: Vijay, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Baby Nainika, Amy Jackson
Another Vijay-Atlee collaboration, Theri (2016) is a cop thriller where Vijay shines in a dual role, portraying Joseph Kuruvilla, a doting father and baker, and Vijay Kumar, an undercover police officer seeking revenge. As Joseph Kuruvilla, Vijay brings warmth and charm to the screen. Joseph is a loving single father who leads a quiet life as a baker, keeping his troubled past behind. Contrasting with Joseph is Vijay Kumar, an upright police officer who is on a mission to eradicate crime and corruption. Vijay Kumar is driven by a thirst for justice, especially after a personal tragedy strikes close to home. In this role, Vijay displays his action-hero persona with conviction, delivering powerful dialogues and engaging in action sequences that highlight his agility and physical fitness.
Bigil
Streaming on: Sun NXT
Cast: Vijay, Nayanthara, Jackie Shroff, Kathir, Yogi Babu
Bigil, a 2019 Tamil film directed by Atlee, showcases Vijay in dual roles. The movie revolves around Michael (Vijay), a former football player who turns coach for a women’s football team. As the coach, Vijay brings a blend of toughness and compassion, guiding a team of underprivileged women to victory while battling social barriers and personal challenges. In a contrasting role, Vijay also plays Rayappan, a local don with a rugged persona and a heart of gold. This character allows Vijay to showcase his versatility as he seamlessly transitions from the earnest coach to the gritty and larger-than-life Rayappan. His portrayal of Rayappan adds layers to the narrative.
Puli
Streaming on: Sun NXT
Cast: Vijay, Shruti Haasan, Sridevi, Sudeep and Hansika Motwani
Puli (2015), a Tamil fantasy-adventure film, showcases Vijay in a dual role — Marudheeran, a brave warrior, and his father, Pulivendhan, a noble king. Directed by Chimbu Deven, the film unfolds in a mythical kingdom where Marudheeran embarks on a quest to rescue the villagers captured by the ruthless queen Yavanarani (Sridevi). As Marudheeran, Vijay embodies the spirit of a warrior fighting for justice and righteousness, displaying impressive sword-fighting skills. In contrast, Pulivendhan is depicted as a wise and benevolent king who embodies principles of valour and sacrifice.
Azhagiya Thamizh Magan
Streaming on: Sun NXT
Cast: Vijay, Shriya Saran, Namitha, Santhanam, Ashish Vidyarthi
Azhagiya Thamizh Magan (2007) features Vijay in a dual role again. Directed by Bharathan, the film is an action thriller. Vijay’s portrayal of Guru, a business management student with extra sensory powers, stands in stark contrast to his other character Prasad, an evil money-minded person. The film explores the complexities of identity and destiny as Guru and Prasad’s lives intersect in unexpected ways.
