GVM brought a fresh, Westernized aesthetic to Tamil cinema. He mastered the art of urban romance and slick police procedurals. Minnale (2001) became a youth anthem, while Kaakha Kaakha (2003) and Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu (2006) redefined the portrayal of police officers. His romantic masterpiece Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa (2010) captured the complexity of modern relationships and remains a benchmark for romance in Kollywood.
The soundscapes of Tamil cinema evolved drastically during this decade. While A.R. Rahman continued to deliver global-standard albums like Alaipayuthey , Kandukondain Kandukondain , and Sivaji , two new composers defined the youth culture of the 2000s.
If you grew up in the 2000s, your idea of "mass" and "class" was likely forged in the heat of a Chennai afternoon at a theater like Sathyam Cinemas. This decade (2000–2010) wasn’t just about entertainment; it was a decade of transition where celluloid magic began its journey into the digital age. 1. The Era of Groundbreaking Romance
Urban romances, stylish cop thrillers, and iconic musical tracks tamil movies 2000 to 2010
To understand the sheer variety of this decade, one only needs to look at its landmark films: Why It Matters Alaipayuthey Redefined urban romance; iconic A.R. Rahman soundtrack. Kaakha Kaakha Action / Cop Thriller
: This decade saw A.R. Rahman continue his dominance while newcomers like Harris Jayaraj and Yuvan Shankar Raja created soundtracks that became cultural phenomena.
Emerging as the definitive sound of the urban youth, Harris Jayaraj dominated the decade with a string of mega-hits for Gautham Menon and S. Shankar, including Minnale , Kaakha Kaakha , Anniyan , and Ghilli . GVM brought a fresh, Westernized aesthetic to Tamil cinema
Tamil cinema music underwent a massive sonic evolution during this decade, driven by technological advancements and brilliant composers.
At the turn of the millennium, Tamil cinema's biggest stars transitioned from traditional action formulas to stylized, larger-than-life narratives that captured a massive youth audience.
A massive commercial blockbuster starring Rajinikanth, which combined social commentary on corruption with high-tech action. Vaaranam Aayiram (2008)
The ultimate commercial entertainer; solidified Vijay’s mass market power. Anniyan Psychological Thriller
Maintained his top-tier status with Chandramukhi (2005) and Sivaji (2007).
: Continued his legacy with the urban romance Alai Payuthey (2000) and the emotionally heavy Kannathil Muthamittal (2002).
: Evolved from a budding actor into a powerhouse performer and bankable star through versatile roles in Kaakha Kaakha (2003), Ghajini (2005), Vaaranam Aayiram (2008), and Ayan (2009).