South cinema has been dominating the global stage in the last few years. From receiving nominations and even winning prestigious international awards to screening films at film festivals globally, South cinema’s foray into intercontinental recognition has been utterly remarkable. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the extremely talented actors from the South film industry who crossed national boundaries and reached Hollywood.
5 South actors who made their place in Hollywood
Rajinikanth
Well, the Thalaivaa of Kollywood, Rajinikanth stands out as a star who has redefined cinema on many levels. So much so that he actually became one of the first stars from the South to work in a Hollywood film. Vettaiyan Starr became a part of the action adventure film Bloodstone, released in 1988, directed by Dwight H. Little.
It was the only Hollywood film that Rajinikanth did and it starred Brett Stimely and Anna Nicholls in important roles. The film was later dubbed into Tamil and released under the name Varavel. Despite being a Hollywood film, it was shot extensively in Bengaluru only.
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As an actor, Dhanush has always prioritized versatility above anything else. Throughout his extensive filmography, one can be assured of seeing the wide variety of projects and roles he has been associated with. Apart from Indian cinema, the actor has also made it to Hollywood, ruling the charts as always.
His debut in Hollywood was in 2018 with the film The Extraordinary Journey of the Fakir. Directed by Ken Scott, the film was based on the novel of the same name by Román Puertolas. Moving on, he also became a part of the film The Gray Man in 2022 – another classic American action thriller directed by Anthony and Joe Russo. Dhanush gave path-breaking performances in both the films.
GV Prakash
Musician turned actor GV Prakash has proved that he is indeed a versatile man. The artist has showcased his talent in a long list of films in South cinema, and then he was chosen to take the leap of faith straight into Hollywood. Yes, you heard that right! GV Prakash was a part of the film Trap City, which was released in 2021.
Directed by Tell Ganesan, the film starred South Star along with Brandon T. Jackson, Clifton Powell and Phylicia Lloyd in lead roles. GV Prakash plays the role of a doctor who first convinces the hero to take up music.
Pooja Kumar
Pooja Kumar is best remembered for starring in Kamal Haasan’s Vishwaroopam and its sequel Vishwaroopam 2. The actress has made her mark in both Indian and international cinema over the years. He has worked in many Tamil and Telugu films equally.
However, she has also made her place in Hollywood. The diva appeared in her first American film, Anything for You, in 2010. She then appeared in several other Hollywood projects, including Drawing with Chalk, Man on a Ledge, Brawl in Cell Block 99, and more.
napoleon
Iconic Tamil star Napoleon has left an unforgettable mark with his work over the years. Although he has now taken up a political career, his filmography still remains a testament to versatility and above all great cinema.
The actor made his Hollywood debut in 2019 with the film Christmas Coupons. He then worked in the film Devil’s Night: Dawn of the Nain Rouge, which was released in the same year. Napoleon also shared screen space with GV Prakash in Trap City.
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