Do you know that Superstar Rajinikanth was born out of pure passion from a normal bus conductor? Yes! His devotion to acting and humble nature as a simple man has made him “The Thailava” (god) not only in Tamil Nadu or South India, but worldwide as well. His loyal fandom is at a supreme level that every actor aims to ascend. Let’s see his top 5 classic films here. Also, this is not a comparison, just ranking the best to best in order.
1. Baashha (1995)

Baashha is the trademark film of Rajinikanth’s career. His acting as Mancik Baasha, the Don of Bombay’s underworld, is a powerhouse example of how to establish a film legacy. Along with veteran actors like Raghuvaran, Nagma, and Vijayakumar, Baashha remains the No.1 film, which can be re-watched a million times for Thailaivan’s acting. Also, the popular dialogue “Nenu Oksari Chepte Vanda Sarlu Cheppinate” helms from here. Streaming Partner: JioHotstar, YouTube
IMDb: 8.3/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 88% My Rating: 5/5
2. Thalapathi (1991)

This is another film where you can watch Rajini sir in his prime, it’s Thalapathi, written and directed by the one and only veteran Mani Ratnam. It has established an ensemble duo of Mammooty and Rajinikanth in an excellent story. Both actors left a masterstroke that no other can fill their shoes. With melodious songs, twists, dialogues, emotions, and action, everything is a textbook example of how a movie is to be made. Streaming Partner: Prime Video
IMDb: 8.5/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 87% My Rating: 5/5
3. Padayappa (1999)

Padayappa, also known as Narasimha in Telugu, is a superhit romance-action film with one of the most acclaimed characters of Rajini sir. His chemistry with costars Soundarya and Ramya Krishnan, the antagonist “Nilambari”, is an iconic love triangle plotline that every south indian knows. Also, this film holds a record of a successful theatrical run, more than 100 – 175 days, while boasting a noteworthy soundtrack. Streaming Partner: Prime Video, YouTubeÂ
IMDb: 8.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 85% My Rating: 5/5
4. Chandramukhi (2005)

Chandramukhi and Manichitrathazhu are the parent stories of Akshay Kumar & Karthik Aryan’s Bhool Bhulaiyaa saga. It’s OG Rajini sir who has introduced a combination of jittering comedy to the terrorising horror storyline in the early 2000s. Chandramukhi, starring Jyothika, Prabhu, and Nayantara, is a successful film with memorable acting and music. Especially the climax scenes are the highlight of the film. Note: Don’t watch Chandramukhi 2, it has no direct link and very mediocre film. Streaming Partner: Amazon Prime, JioHotstar, YouTube
IMDb: 7.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 73% My Rating: 5/5
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5. Shivaji: The Boss (2007)

Directed by legendary director Shankar, the Shivaji film revolves around the hardcore corruption by government officials, doctors, and politicians, which happens everywhere in society. Rajini sir, as the protagonist, did the finest acting in dual characters. He reluctantly extracts black money from the wealthy and builds a zero-corruption world. In this, the music by A.R. Rahman is a piece of art. Streaming Partner: Prime Video, Zee5
IMDb: 7.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 82% My Rating: 5/5
Conclusion:
It’s not surprising to say that actor Rajinikanth represents Indian Cinema & our immense love for filmmaking. He is an established actor and a superstar for more than fifty years. Even in this age, his fitness and commendable acting skills are an inspiration. So, do watch every film and become Rajini-fied.
Written by – Meghana Pinninti