But we seem to forget that actors like Tappsee Pannu, Dhanush, Rajnikanth and many more started out in this very industry. And now, these talents are some of the most renowned actors in the country, delivering performances par excellence. 

And this year was no different. So here’s a look at some of the best Tamil movies of the year: 

1. Kabali

Kabali chronicles the story of a migrant labourer who is wrongly jailed for a crime. Rajnikanth’s only film of the year and Radhika Apte’s big debut opposite the superstar, this film comes with a do-not-miss tag. 

2. Kodi

A political-thriller, Kodi is yet another movie by the undisputed duo of Dhanush and Vetrimaaran. The film offers a good suspense, amazing chemistry between Dhanush and Trisha and a very commendable storyline.

3. Tharai Thappattai

A musical-drama, the film received the National Award for Best Music Direction this year. All thanks to Ilayaraja, of course. A great plot line, coupled with great performances and killer music, this film has so much to offer. 

4. Aandavan Kattalai

With Vijay Sethupathi, Ritika Singh and the evergreen actor Nassar, this film sure boasts of a magical cast. Along with the actors, the storyline needs to be applauded as well for its ingenuity. Directed by Manikandan who gave us Kaaka Muttai previously, this movie is a definite watch. 

5. Iraivi

Karthik Subaraj’s third film, Iraivi does not disappoint at all. After delivering Pizza in 2011, expectations were high and with Iraivi, he proved that he’s not just a one-hit wonder. If you want to watch anything before 2016 ends, then this is the film to watch. 

6. Uriyadi

With brimming music by Masala Coffee, Uriyadi is one hell of a thriller. A true coming-of-age film by Vijaykumar, who has not only directed the film but has also acted and written the screenplay as well. 

7. Kuttrame Thandanai

A neo-noir psychological thriller, Kuttrame Thandanai has a strong storytelling form. With killer performances from all the actors and music by the legendary Ilayaraja, this movie needs to be on everyone’s must watch list. 

8. Irudhi Suttru

R. Madhavan made an epic comeback with this sports film and Ritika Singh grabbed a National Film Award for her performance. It was also simultaneously shot for its Hindi counterpart, Saala Khadoos. A recommended watch for its stunning cast. 

9. Thozha

The remake of French film The Intouchables, Thozha made audiences’ hearts melt when it released. The story sticks to the original plot with almost no variation and does justice to it through and through. 

10. Visaranai

The movie was India’s official entry to Oscars and it did get a lot of people talking about it. A docu-drama thriller film, trust us when we say that it’s a must watch for this year. 

Of course, this is just our pick of the lot. If you guys have Tamil movies from 2016 that are a must watch, let us know.