Villains or Antagonists are an integral part of Tamil cinema and they are known to add an extra zing to an onscreen story. Here we have listed top 5 actors who brought in the 'it factor' with their portrayal of shady roles in 2021.

1. SJ Suryah : The actor's portrayal of an antagonist was so good in Maanaadu, that he scored way above the main character almost stealing the show. His fantastic performance as DCP Dhanushkodi sometimes left Maanaadu viewers baffled, as to why they were applauding for a negative character. This doesn't happen a lot in Tamil cinema and for that SJ Suryah has to be commended. Such was the case with Nenjam Marapathillai too, where SJ Suryah played anti-hero. Ramsay, a nefarious character had audience enjoying his little antics and fun quotient. SJ Suryah walked away with both these films.

2. Natarajan Subramaniam : Anyone who watched Karnan could feel a chill down their spine with the kind of heat and tension, SP Kannabiran brought on screen. Natrajan Subramaniam or Natty who played this role sold his no-mercy and brutality right from the word go.

3. Vijay Sethupathi : Possibly the most non-animated villain this year and on this list. As the calm and composed Bhavani, Vijay Sethupathi delivered all the goods of a gruesome antagonist in Master. That this role became a fan-favourite too was an added bonus.

4. Hakkim Shah : This young and promising actor was brilliant as a psychopath is in Kadaseela Briyani. Most definitely a name to look out for. 

5. Vinay Rai : This hearthrob from early 2000s is leaving a mark these days with his villainous characters. His portrayal of Terry, the suave-on-the-outside, heartless trafficker of minor girls on the inside was effortless and memorable.