In Tamil Nadu, the political is seldom too far away from the filmy. A unique set of circumstances in this State has seen at least five Chief Ministers emerge from the film world. While he may have started off as a youngster eager to make it big in tinsel town, DMDK leader Vijayakant's later films are a deliberate effort to set him up as a saviour and a just leader. The title 'Captain' stuck to him after Captain Prabhakaran, a super-hit film that even the star counts among his best from among the 150-plus movies in which he has played an action hero. While he dabbed in family dramas, with films such as Vaanatha Pola, Chinna Goundar and Engal Anna making a mark among the audience, it was the later films, among them Ramana, that served as a launch pad for his political career. It was not by accident or love for MGR that he decided to call himself "Karuppu MGR (Black MGR"). Here's a look at some key milestones of the DMDK leader's first career.
Actor-director Manobala said "He would give people due respect. As an actor he would do justice to the story and always go by what the director says. He has helped many new faces in the industry. When I was involved in a major accident, he said that I was lucky to have escaped and that I would have a bright future."
Captain Prabhakaran (1991): Director — R.K. Selvamani: This was Vijayakant's 100th film, which was supposedly based on the life of forest brigand Veerappan. The actor plays the role of an IFS officer. He nabs the dacoit, who is supported by a corrupt cop and a district Collector. The song Aattama Terottama by Ilayaraja remains etched in fans' memories. The film was shot when Veerappan was alive.
Chinna Goundar (1992): Director — R.V. Udhayakumar: Thavasi (Vijayakant) and Deivaanai (Sukanya) stole the hearts of viewers with thier acting in this film, which is set in a village. Vijayakant plays the role of a panchayat head (not an elected panchayat president), who dispenses justice. The comedy track of Manorama, who played the role of Vijayakant's mother, along with Goundamani and Senthil was a hit too.
Vaanatha Pola (2000): : Director — Vikraman: The film tells the story of a caring brother who makes sacrifices to ensure that his younger brothers succeed in life. Vijayakant plays a double role in the movie, the story of which is based on family values. It won a national award for film providing wholesome entertainment and also remade in Telugu and Kannada.
Ramana (2002): Director — A.R. Murugadas: As a conscientious professor, a loving husband, an affectionate father and a ruthless terminator, the actor lends dignity to the role of Ramana, whose sole aim is to see a corruption-free State. His Anti-Corruption Force takes on the echelons of power and punishes the wrongdoers. This film is remembered even today for the statistics about the State Vijayakant reeled out.
Compiled by Deepa H. Ramakrishnan
