MovieCrow Annual Rankings - Top Tamil Actors Of 2018

Vijay Sethupathy (96, Seethakaathi, CCV) : Choosing Vijay Sethupathy as the best actor of 2018 didn't need much of a thought. Be it the matured lover in agony in 96, or the septuagenarian minus the nonchalance and counters (his usual USP) in Seethakaathi or stealing the thunder as Rasool Ibrahim in the multi-starrer Chekka Chivantha Vaanam, Vijay Sethupathi put up a very bonafide-star-ish show in his assortment of films and 2018 couldn't be more his year.

Dhanush (Vada Chennai, Maari 2) : We've seen Dhanush play both Maari and a North Chennai character before but his ability to bring unique intensity to even repetitive roles is what pegs him at this position.

Rajinikanth (Kaala, 2.0) : A name synonymous with four-plus decades of Kollywood royalty, Rajinikanth made it to the top ranks this year for bringing out the actor in Kaala and the superstar in 2.0.

Kathir (Pariyerum Perumal) : Kathir had his legs under him in Pariyerm Perumal and the stretch in which he is pushed inside the ladies' toilet to when he walks out with confidence particularly proves why he was an apt choice for 'Pariyan'.

Vishnu Vishal (Ratsasan) : Ratsasan was a definite and huge shift in Vishnu Vishal's career trajectory and one of his best performances till date. After playing a leading hero in 13+ films, Vishnu Vishal stamped his 'a name to be reckoned with' status in Tamil cinema.

Special Mentions 

• Vijay (Sarkar): Playing the heroic Vijay we all know him to be and at the same time pulling off a character which is uncompromising and exceptionally well-dressed, Vijay as Sundar Ramasamy in Sarkar grabbed our attention in every way possible.
• Dulquer Salmaan (Nadigaiyar Thilagam) : Dulquer Salmaan's performance in this film showed us that the actor can pull off the good, the bad and ugly all in one character with equal measure. Playing Gemini Ganesan, whose dynamic with Savitri and other women in general was the focal point in this movie, Dulquer pulled off the role with elan even while venturing into the veteran actor's dark and very personal space.
• Jayam Ravi (Tik Tik Tik, Adanga Maru) : Another actor who caught our attention with his memorable performances this year, Jayam Ravi with his portrayal of a street-smart magician in space in Tik Tik Tik and an uptight police officer in Adanga Maru, shined away with his subtle yet strong acting.
• Karthi (Kadaikutty Singam) : Karthi in his full-fledged country side role, stole the show in his portrayal of a farmer proud of his roots and values.