Vijay Sethupathi’s highest-rated films on IMDb: Vikram Vedha, 96, Super Deluxe and more

Tamil cinema’s “people’s star” Vijay Sethupathi has carved a unique space for himself by consistently choosing unconventional roles and story-driven films. Whether portraying a ruthless gangster, a vulnerable romantic, or a deeply layered character challenging social norms, Sethupathi’s performances have resonated strongly with audiences and critics alike.

As the actor turns 48, it’s a fitting moment to revisit some of his highest-rated films on IMDb—projects that not only showcase his versatility but also underline his reputation as one of Indian cinema’s most dependable performers.

⭐ Vijay Sethupathi’s highest-rated films on IMDb

1. 96 (IMDb: 8.6)

One of the most beloved romantic dramas in Tamil cinema, 96 features Vijay Sethupathi as Ram, a quiet travel photographer haunted by memories of his school-time love, played by Trisha Krishnan. The film’s gentle storytelling, minimal dialogue, and emotional restraint struck a chord with viewers across age groups. Sethupathi’s subtle performance is often cited as one of the finest of his career.

Streaming on: Aha, MX Player

2. Maharaja (IMDb: 8.3)

In Maharaja, Sethupathi delivers a powerful performance as a barber whose seemingly simple request at a police station slowly unravels into a gripping emotional mystery. Directed by Nithilan Saminathan, the film stands out for its layered narrative and shocking revelations, with Sethupathi anchoring the story through restraint rather than theatrics.

Streaming on: Netflix

3. Vikram Vedha (IMDb: 8.2)

Often considered a modern classic, Vikram Vedha reimagines the Vikram–Betaal folklore in a crime-thriller setting. Vijay Sethupathi’s portrayal of gangster Vedha—charismatic, unpredictable, and philosophically complex—became instantly iconic. His face-offs with R Madhavan’s cop character remain among the most celebrated performances in Tamil cinema.

Streaming on: JioHotstar

4. Super Deluxe (IMDb: 8.2)

Directed by Thiagarajan Kumararaja, Super Deluxe is an audacious, multi-narrative film that challenged societal norms. Sethupathi played Shilpa, a transgender woman returning to her family, earning widespread acclaim for his sensitive and fearless portrayal. The role marked a turning point in mainstream representation and is still regarded as one of his bravest choices.

Streaming on: Aha

5. Master (IMDb: 7.4)

In Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Master, Sethupathi took on the role of Bhavani, a ruthless antagonist who manipulates children for criminal activities. Sharing screen space with Thalapathy Vijay, Sethupathi stood out for his chilling screen presence and grounded villainy, making Bhavani one of the more memorable antagonists in recent Tamil cinema.

Streaming on: Prime Video

Why Vijay Sethupathi’s films score high on IMDb

What sets Vijay Sethupathi apart is his genre fluidity—he seamlessly moves between romance, crime, comedy, social drama, and experimental cinema. His performances often elevate the script, making even unconventional narratives accessible to mainstream audiences. Moreover, his willingness to play morally complex or socially challenging characters has earned him long-term critical respect.

Beyond IMDb: Sethupathi’s lasting impact

While IMDb ratings reflect popularity and critical consensus, Vijay Sethupathi’s true strength lies in how his films age well. Many of his performances continue to gain appreciation years after release, especially among younger audiences discovering his work through streaming platforms.

As he enters another year of his career, Vijay Sethupathi remains one of Indian cinema’s most reliable storytellers—an actor who prioritizes content over stardom.