Thamizhan, released in 2002 features Vijay as an upright lawyer. This is one of the first movies that propelled his 'saviour image' onscreen'. Vijay plays Surya who is committed to generating awareness regarding the common man's rights and privileges. Interestingly, it was Priyanka Chopra's first and only Tamil movie too.

Vijay plays a professional dancer whose father is a leader of a criminal network working for the underprivileged. As Vishwa Bhai, he takes control of the network after his father's death and ensures he delivers justice to the financially downtrodden, at the expense of his family's welfare.

Vijay did not hide his criticism of the BJP-led government at the Centre with the reference to the Goods and Services Tax implemented in the country. The film dealt with the corrupt healthcare system, with a message on reformation of the health sector.

The film discusses electoral fraud and how a US resident faces problems when he decides to come to India to cast his vote. The movie was instrumental in generating awareness of electoral fraud. The Election Commission of India too stepped in to educate the masses regarding Section 49P of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961.

The film portrayed a different kind of politics but nevertheless incorporated scenes regarding caste politics and college elections. Vijay essayed a flawed hero in the movie, which was a welcome change from his usual films.