As we approach the conclusion of 2024, it is pertinent to reflect on the standout performances of the year. Tamil cinema has experienced a range of successes and challenges; however, certain performances transcended the films themselves, often enhancing their overall reception. Additionally, some performances served as the perfect complement to their respective films. Let us examine the most notable performances of this year, presented in no specific order.

Best of 2024

Vikram – Thangalaan (Netflix)

Vikram portrays the leader of a tribal community in Pa Ranjith’s Thangalaan, expressing the profound inner anguish stemming from his lived experiences and the struggles against oppression. He embodies a character who retains the pride of his heritage, which once safeguarded a treasure from human avarice. Renowned for his ability to undergo both physical and mental transformations for his roles, Vikram once again demonstrates this commitment in Thangalaan. The actor not only brings to life a character of significant importance but also showcases a remarkable depth and insight in presenting a narrative that is often overlooked.

Karthi and Arvind Swamy – Meiyazhagan (Netflix)

In Prem Kumar's Meiyazhagan, Karthi embodies a rural individual whose capacity for love, care, and affection knows no limits. His performance is effectively complemented by Arvind Swamy's depiction of a man who, despite being disconnected from his origins, continues to long for them. The film primarily revolves around the dialogues exchanged between Karthi and Arvind Swamy, providing ample opportunity for the actors to guide the audience through a narrative of returning home. Karthi's portrayal, characterized by a childlike demeanour, serves as a perfect counterbalance to the introverted nature of Arvind Swamy's character, Arulmozhi Varman.

Soori – Garudan (Prime Video)

Soori, portraying the devoted servant in Garudan, reveals his action-oriented character in the film. Caught in a conflict between loyalty and honesty, Soori delivers a nuanced performance as a man entangled in deception, the quest for justice, and malevolence, ultimately rendering Garudan a gratifying viewing experience.

Anna Ben - Kottukkaali (Aha)

Anna Ben's portrayal of Meena in Kottukkaali presents a woman who has endured numerous struggles and reached her limit, ultimately choosing to withdraw from her family and embrace silence. Conversely, her family misinterprets her silence as a sign of possession, attempting to take her to a shaman. Without the use of dialogue, Anna Ben effectively conveys Meena's strength and determination through her physical expressions, which are skillfully complemented by Soori's depiction of a deeply misogynistic man willing to go to great lengths to persuade Meena to marry him.

Sivakarthikeyan and Sai Pallavi – Amaran (Netflix)

Biopics that typically focus on the main character took a different direction with Amaran. Featuring Sivakarthikeyan in the role of the late Major Mukund Varadarajan, the film leans more towards a romantic narrative rather than a military-centric story. It presents a touching account of the love shared between Mukund and his wife Indhu Rebecca Varghese, portrayed by Sai Pallavi. The lead actors authentically capture the essence of the real-life couple, demonstrating remarkable commitment to their roles. Sai Pallavi depicts a woman deeply enamoured with her husband and his aspirations, while Sivakarthikeyan portrays a man whose affection extends beyond familial ties, significantly enhancing the film's emotional depth.

Urvashi – J Baby (Prime Video)

In J Baby, Urvashi portrays a mother of two adult sons while simultaneously embodying a youthful spirit as her health deteriorates. As a character suffering from Alzheimer’s, Urvashi’s role as an elderly woman transcends traditional maternal responsibilities, distinguishing J Baby from other films that often confine mothers to lives solely focused on their children. Urvashi, an immensely talented actress known for her remarkable performances, elevates J Baby into a poignant viewing experience, reflecting the experiences of many mothers whose struggles have yet to be adequately depicted in cinema.

Kavin – Star (Prime Video)

Kavin, portraying an aspiring actor in the film Star, exhibits a range of emotions including charm, vulnerability, anger, disappointment, and acceptance. Despite the film not meeting expectations, Kavin succeeded in offering elements that the audience found enjoyable. The film also provides him ample opportunity to display his dance skills, navigate a spectrum of emotions, and develop a character arc that nearly connects with the audience before the conclusion. Additionally, Kavin, who recently appeared in Bloody Beggar, embraces the challenge of transforming into an unrecognizable beggar, showcasing his charm once more.

Vijay Sethupathi – Maharaja (Netflix)

Vijay Sethupathi starred in Maharaja, a film that centers on a father's quest for justice for his child. However, director Nithilan Saminathan approaches the narrative in a manner that reveals the vulnerabilities of the protagonist portrayed by the actor. Balancing a desire for vengeance against the wrongdoers with a sense of detachment, Vijay Sethupathi effectively heightens the emotional intensity of his performance as the film unfolds.

Attakathi Dinesh and Harish Kalyan - Lubber Pandhu (Disney+ Hotstar)

The performances in Lubber Pandhu have undoubtedly contributed significantly to the cricket sports drama's appeal among viewers. The dynamic portrayal of rivals on the field by Attakathi Dinesh, also known as Gettu Dinesh, and Harish Kalyan, who embody the roles of an ego-driven father-in-law and son-in-law, enhances the film's entertainment value. Additionally, the strong supporting cast, which includes Swasika, Sanjana, Kaali Venkat, and Bala Saravanan, along with the insightful writing and direction by Tamizhasan Pachamuthu, ensures that Lubber Pandhu is a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

Samyuktha Vijayan - Nila Neera Sooriyan

Samyuktha Vijayan, both the star and director of Nila Neera Sooriyan, portrays an individual experiencing gender transformation. Through its nuanced and sensitive filmmaking, supported by a genuine narrative, Nila Neera Sooriyan has emerged as one of the overlooked films of the year. Nevertheless, Samyuktha passionately and sincerely advocates for this important story that deserves to be shared widely.

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