This list is not exhaustive, but it highlights some of the most notable and influential films of the decade.
The early 2000s was defined by the titans of the industry: Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan.
From the introduction of psychological depth to standard action heroes to the emergence of "Madurai-centric" neo-noir, let us take an extensive look at how the collaborative work of directors, actors, and technicians during these ten years permanently reshaped Indian filmmaking. 1. The Death of the Monolith Hero: Complex Protagonists tamil movies from 2000 to 2010 work
Between 2000 and 2010, there was a noticeable change in how women were portrayed in Tamil cinema—a transition brought about by globalization, feminism, and larger socioeconomic shifts.
The transformation happened across multiple fronts. Digital Intermediate (DI) color correction and visual effects became standard in post-production. Pudupettai (2006) became the first Tamil feature film to use DI technology to deliver content to digital cinema and celluloid simultaneously. The AVID editing system, DI workflows, and the DTS sound system all entered Tamil cinema during this period, fundamentally altering how films were made and experienced. This list is not exhaustive, but it highlights
Directors began experimenting with psychological thrillers ( Moondru Per Moondru Kadhal ), body-swap comedies, and caper stories, knowing that urban multiplex audiences were ready for non-linear, experimental storytelling.
Here are some notable Tamil movies from the decade: became “versatile actor.” |
This period saw a fusion of high-octane commercialism with artistic technical merit. The industry grew in budget, reach, and technical capability.
| Actor | Key 2000–2010 Films | Impact | |-------|---------------------|--------| | | Chandramukhi (05), Sivaji (07), Enthiran (10) | Delivered the decade’s two biggest grossers (Sivaji, Enthiran). | | Kamal Haasan | Anbe Sivam (03), Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu (06), Dasavathaaram (08) | Continued experimental, socially relevant roles. | | Vijay | Ghilli (04), Thirupaachi (05), Pokkiri (07) | Transitioned from romantic hero to action mass icon. | | Ajith Kumar | Dheena (01), Varalaru (06), Billa (07) | Reinvented as “Thala” – stylish, fan-driven mass hero. | | Suriya | Kaaka Kaaka (03), Pithamagan (03), Vaaranam Aayiram (08) | Shifted from romantic roles to performance-oriented parts. | | Vikram | Pithamagan (03), Anniyan (05), Raavanan (10) | Won National Award (Pithamagan); became “versatile actor.” |