Vijayakanth, affectionately known as ‘Captain,’ left an indelible mark on the Tamil film industry. Despite emerging alongside titans like Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, he carved a niche for himself with his unique style and memorable performances.
Early Struggles:
Vijayakanth’s initial foray into films as a villain faced setbacks, but his fortunes changed with “Doorathu Idi Muzhakkam.” This film, later remade in various languages, marked a turning point in his career. In 1984, a remarkable year for him, he achieved the unprecedented feat of releasing 18 films, including the blockbuster “Vaidhehi Kathirunthal” and the first-ever Tamil 3D film, “Annai Bhoomi 3D.”
‘Captain’ Prabhakaran:
The moniker ‘Captain’ originated from his 100th film, “Captain Prabhakaran,” a blockbuster inspired by the life of sandalwood smuggler Veerappan. Noteworthy among his cop roles was “Sathriyan,” a gripping portrayal of an honest police officer, and “Sethupathy IPS,” which became a superhit. The versatile actor stepped out of his action-hero mold in “Chinna Gounder,” showcasing a different facet and delivering an iconic ‘bambaram’ scene.
’90s Triumphs and Millennium Challenges:
Vijayakanth’s career soared in the ’90s with hits like “Vanathai Pola,” “Vallarasu,” and “Simmasanam.” However, post the success of “Ramanaa,” his cinematic journey took a downturn. Evolving audience expectations and changing filmmaking styles left him struggling, and his later films, marred by unrealistic dialogues, turned him into fodder for jokes and memes.
A Stale Comeback:
Despite a brief return to films after a political slump, Vijayakanth’s comeback fell flat. The audience, now accustomed to evolved cinema, found his films lacking. His once-respected moniker ‘Captain’ became a source of mockery. The actor, who had defied odds to establish himself amidst industry giants, faced the harsh reality of fading relevance.
End of an Era:
Vijayakanth’s journey in the film industry, devoid of influential mentors, remains a remarkable tale. For those who witnessed his best works, he was more than a meme; he was a poignant lesson on adapting to changing times.
