Tamil cinema has always been about larger-than-life storytelling, powerful performances, and a fan base that celebrates movies like festivals. Over the years, many films have not only captured hearts but also smashed records at the box office. From superstar-driven mass entertainers to technically brilliant spectacles, these movies changed the way the industry is seen across India and worldwide. This list looks at the highest-grossing Tamil movies of all time, right up till September 2025. Each film here made a mark with its earnings and popularity, proving how far the Tamil film industry (Kollywood) has come on the global stage. If you love cinema, these are the movies you simply cannot miss. 2.0 (2018) Directed by Shankar and starring Rajinikanth alongside Akshay Kumar, 2.0 was one of the most ambitious Tamil films ever made. Fans eagerly awaited its release after the success of Enthiran, and it did not disappoint. On its opening day, the film collected approximately Rs 2.6 crore in Chennai alone. By the end of the first weekend, the numbers in Chennai reached over Rs 10 crore, and the first week in Tamil Nadu alone crossed Rs 70 crore. Even the second weekend stayed strong, bringing in more collections. By the end of its full run, 2.0 raked in approximately Rs 655.81 crore worldwide, becoming a benchmark for Tamil cinema. The combination of grand visuals, thrilling action, stunning music, and Rajinikanth's superstar charisma made it a truly unforgettable blockbuster. Ponniyin Selvan: Part I (2022) Mani Ratnam's dream project Ponniyin Selvan: Part I, adapted from Kalki's classic novel, was a cultural event in Tamil cinema. Featuring Vikram, Aishwarya Rai, Karthi, Jayam Ravi, and Trisha, it became an instant favourite. On day 1, it grossed over Rs 34 crore worldwide, and by the end of its opening weekend, it had crossed Rs 80 crore globally. In the first week alone, it earned more than Rs 230 crore, and the total collections eventually made it one of the highest-grossing Tamil films of all time. With breathtaking visuals, powerful performances, and Mani Ratnam's expert direction, it became a movie that fans would remember for years. Jailer (2023) Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, Jailer brought Rajinikanth back in full glory, and the film became a festival for his fans. On day 1, it earned a massive Rs 52 crore across India, with about Rs 23 crore just from Tamil Nadu. The momentum continued on day 2 and day 3, which earned around Rs 25 crore and Rs 34 crore respectively. By the end of the first week, the film had crossed Rs 236 crore in India and eventually earned approximately Rs 607 crore worldwide, cementing its place as one of the biggest Tamil blockbusters ever. With thrilling action, heartfelt moments, and supporting performances from stars like Mohanlal, the film was loved by audiences across the globe. Leo (2023) When Lokesh Kanagaraj teamed up with Thalapathy Vijay for Leo, expectations were sky-high, and the film delivered on all fronts. On its opening day in Tamil Nadu, it collected nearly Rs 28 crore, and by the fifth day, it had already crossed Rs 78 crore in the state alone. Fans flocked to theatres throughout the weekend, making it one of the most talked-about films of the year. Leo went on to earn approximately Rs 595-615 crore worldwide, showing Vijay's star power is as strong as ever. Stylish action, gripping storytelling, and Vijay's charisma ensured audiences were glued to their seats from start to finish. Ponniyin Selvan: Part II (2023) Mani Ratnam returned with Ponniyin Selvan: Part II, continuing the epic Chola dynasty saga that fans had been eagerly waiting for. Featuring a star-studded cast including Vikram, Karthi, Jayam Ravi, Trisha, and Aishwarya Rai, the film was nothing short of a visual spectacle. On its opening day, it earned around Rs 25 crore worldwide, and by the end of the first weekend, the collections crossed Rs 80 crore globally. The first week saw the movie accumulate approximately Rs 150 crore, showcasing Mani Ratnam's masterful direction and the ensemble's stellar performances. By the end of its full theatrical run, Ponniyin Selvan: Part II grossed about Rs 330 crore worldwide, making it a commercial and cultural success. Fans were enchanted by the intricate storytelling, grand sets, and the way the historical saga came alive on the big screen. Varisu (2023) Varisu directed by Vamshi Paidipally became a significant box-office success, adding another blockbuster to Vijay's impressive career. The film stars Vijay in the lead role alongside an ensemble cast that includes Rashmika Mandanna, Prabhu, Sarathkumar, and others, delivering a mix of heartfelt performances and memorable moments. Varisu revolves around family dynamics, sibling relationships, and the emotional journey of its protagonist, combining high-stakes drama with moments of humour, music, and action that resonated with a wide audience. The opening day saw strong collections, and positive word-of-mouth helpe