Even if you don't watch the movies, these soundtracks are essential listening:
A silent, black-and-white thriller directed by Karthik Subbaraj. Yes, a Tamil movie with no dialogue. Mercury used sound design and visual storytelling to narrate a tale of industrial poisoning and revenge. While not a massive commercial hit, it was a bold, experimental move that proved Kollywood filmmakers weren't afraid to break rules.
If you want the "Mass" Tamil cinema experience—songs, fights, and heroism.
Vijay teamed up with director A.R. Murugadoss for a sharp political action thriller. Sarkar saw Vijay playing an NRI corporate raider who returns to Tamil Nadu to vote, only to discover his vote has been fraudulently cast. The film sparked real-life political debates, with its anti-establishment dialogue becoming rallying cries. Despite mixed critical reviews, it was a Diwali blockbuster.
If you only watch a few movies from this year, make it these. These films defined the year's quality and variety.