Actor Suriya has undeniably cemented his place as one of Tamil cinema’s most versatile and impactful stars. Over the past decade, he has continuously evolved as an actor, captivating audiences with his powerful performances and diverse choice of roles. From high-octane action dramas to socially charged narratives, Suriya’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Here’s a look at the ten most influential films that not only ruled the box office but also shaped his legacy.
The adrenaline-packed sequel to the iconic cop drama, Singam 2, saw Suriya return as the fearless Durai Singam. Directed by Hari, the film’s pulsating action and Suriya’s commanding presence made it a massive hit, further establishing the Singam franchise as a force to be reckoned with in Tamil cinema.
Despite mixed reviews, Anjaan proved the star power of Suriya. His dual role as the rugged Raju Bhai and the innocent Krishna showcased his versatility. The film’s commercial success reaffirmed Suriya’s unwavering market appeal, becoming one of the top-grossing Tamil movies of that year.
In the visually stunning sci-fi thriller 24, Suriya’s portrayal of triple roles was a revelation. Directed by Vikram Kumar, the film’s innovative take on time travel and the actor’s nuanced performance earned both critical acclaim and box office triumph.
The iconic Durai Singam made a thundering comeback in Singam 3. With higher stakes and a global crime plot, the film pushed the boundaries of Tamil action cinema. Suriya’s dynamic performance once again proved why he remains unbeatable in the cop genre.
Directed by Vignesh Shivan, Thaana Serndha Kootam showcased Suriya’s lighter, more playful side. The film’s satirical take on corruption, paired with his charismatic performance, was celebrated by audiences, marking a refreshing change in his filmography.
Playing the ambitious Nandha Gopalan Kumaran, Suriya’s transformation into a politician in NGK was both intense and thought-provoking. Despite polarized reviews, his portrayal of a man navigating the murky world of politics was appreciated for its depth and intensity.
Arguably one of Suriya’s most celebrated films, Soorarai Pottru took inspiration from the life of Air Deccan founder G.R. Gopinath. The actor’s compelling performance and the film’s inspirational narrative garnered widespread acclaim, even earning international recognition.
In Jai Bhim, Suriya portrayed Advocate Chandru, a crusader against caste-based injustice. The film’s hard-hitting portrayal of social issues struck a chord worldwide, with critics lauding Suriya’s commitment to meaningful cinema.
Returning to his commercial roots, Suriya took on a character that combined action with a cause. Addressing the theme of women's safety, the film struck a balance between entertainment and social awareness, making it another success in his career.
Marking his triumphant return to period cinema, Retro has been praised for its unique blend of classic Tamil cinema aesthetics and modern storytelling. Suriya’s magnetic screen presence and the film’s rich visual appeal have positioned it as a fitting celebration of his decade-long dominance.