In the annals of Tamil cinema, there are certain films and certain roles that become iconic, remembered for how they define an actor’s career and how they resonate with the audience. One such film that helped forge actor Vijayakant’s reputation as the quintessential action hero is ‘Sethupathi IPS,’ which was unleashed onto the silver screen in the year 1994. With Vijayakant at the helm portraying a valiant policeman, the film is etched into the memories of fans as an unforgettable ode to bravery and exhilarating cinematic spectacle.
Renowned for epitomizing the law-enforcement protagonist, Vijayakant marked ‘Sethupathi IPS’ with an unforgettable landmark of his career. Under the direction of P Vasu, the film whirls around the fierce saga of an intrepid police officer who engages in a relentless battle against the scourge of terrorism—a premise that resonates through the landscapes of the film, from high-octane street showdowns to the climactic face-offs against the nefarious adversaries. His on-screen duo with the talented actress Meena added the necessary emotional depth, propelling the film into one of the top box office successes of the 1990s.
Among the many action sequences that punctuate the film’s rhythm, there is one, particularly in the spotlight—the scene that Vijayakant himself recognized as his most perilous stunt. He recalled the making of this scene during an interview disseminated on the AVM Productions YouTube channel. The scene envisioned the protagonist, recently having stepped out of his office, when an onslaught of terrorists attempts an ambush. According to Vijayakant, approximately 70 cars were required to execute the scene’s ambitious vision. Despite the disruptions caused by inclement weather during the production—rain becoming their recurring nemesis—the team persevered. Rather than bowing to the weather’s whims and significantly scaling down the scene, they stood their ground, ensuring the spectacle remained intact, spanning an arduous shoot of 18 days. Highlighting the actor’s dedication, he makes an impressive leap from atop a car, fashioning a stunning tableau of combative valor against the attackers.
The scene’s daring nature didn’t go unnoticed in its contemporary critical appraisal either. ‘The Hindu’ newspaper, in its review dated January 21, 1994, marveled at the film’s action sequences, particularly noting the gritty street fights that marked Vijayakant’s perilous exploits. These pillars of action did more than entertain; they legitimized Vijayakant’s status as an indomitable action hero among industry legends like Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan.
Aruna Guhan of AVM Productions, reflecting on Vijayakant’s impressive stunt portfolio, has pointed out his unique fighting abilities, remarking on his renowned leg rotations, a trademark technique adding to the distinctiveness of his action choreography. Their testimony not only highlights his physical prowess but paints a picture of an actor whose dedication to the craft of action transcends mere performance to become the art of legendary heroism.
‘Sethupathi IPS,’ apart from its celebrated action scenes and gripping narrative, is a film that is synonymous with Vijayakant’s indelible mark in the Tamil film industry. It serves as a testament to the time when action flicks weren’t just about high stakes and explosive effects but also about the heart and soul an actor pours into making those moments feel alive and real for the audience. It is a film where Vijayakant’s capacity to blend raw power, emotional intensity, and unyielding resolve translated into an action hero persona that would inspire generations of stars and fans alike. As ‘Sethupathi IPS’ continues to resonate with viewers years after its release, the dedication encapsulated in its riskiest scene remains a benchmark for action choreography within cinematic tales of heroism and justice.
