Now that he had become an indisputable heartthrob, Vijay’s next step was to ascend to stardom. Since he started his career at a time when only a few Tamil actors could effortlessly execute dance routines, his movements and flexibility, though not groundbreaking, captivated the viewers. His innate talent in acing scenes featuring playback songs, whether melodies or upbeat numbers, made him effortlessly endearing.
Another factor that played in his favour was that most of his films featured amazing songs. With back-to-back superhits featuring rehashed versions of the same romantic-angry-young-hero archetype, Vijay garnered a substantial fan following.
This became his trademark for years to come, evident in various films including Rasigan (1994), Deva (1995), Vasantha Vaasal (1996), Poove Unakkaga (1996), Nerrukku Ner (1997), Kadhalukku Mariyadhai (1997), Thulladha Manamum Thullum (1999), Minsara Kanna (1999), Kushi (2000), Friends (2001), Shahjahan (2001) and many more, making him the ‘Ilam Thendral’ of the industry. Vijay recognised that embodying the persona of a “romantic hero, who endures significant pain, yet is assertive when needed, and possesses a delightful sense of humour” was something he could cash in on. Moreover, his skilful handling of intense moments, despite being just an average actor, employing innocence in his body language, deeply touched them. His appearance, resonating with many South Indian men, also fostered an immediate sense of connection among the youngest audience members. Thus, children developed an affection towards him instantaneously. Vijay was young and adept at acing action sequences, the focal points of most Indian mainstream movies back then. When the kids of that era laid eyes on Vijay, he stood out from the likes of Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Vijaykanth, Sathyaraj and others, who were already in their 40s. Vijay’s father and director SA Chandrasekhar can also be seen.
Vijay and Keerthana on the sets of Naalaiya Theerpu. His very next film, the romantic actioner Sendhoorapandi, again helmed by his father SA Chandrasekhar, extensively utilised Vijay’s stunt abilities and his charm in romantic moments. It did not take Vijay long to understand his forte - romance.
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