Gold 101.3FM – UAE’s No.1 radio station brings you the latest from the world of entertainment.
Filmmaker Jason Sanjay, son of actor-turned-Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay, says his father’s political victory has brought a new sense of responsibility for the entire family. Speaking to Behindwoods TV, the director of the upcoming film ‘Sigma’ described Vijay’s rise to power as a “historic revolution” and said it has made him and his family more conscious of carrying forward and protecting that legacy.
Despite growing up around film sets, Jason revealed that cinema wasn’t always his dream. As a child, he wanted to become a pilot, and later briefly considered a career in cricket, before deciding during his Plus Two years to pursue filmmaking.
To prepare for the industry, he studied filmmaking in Canada, training in cinematography, editing and direction. During his time there, he directed advertisements for startups and volunteered at the Toronto International Film Festival, an experience he says broadened his understanding of world cinema. He also fondly recalled meeting actor Nivin Pauly during the premiere of Moothon.
Jason said the idea for ‘Sigma’ was first discussed with Sanjeev, a close friend of Vijay, before the completed script was pitched to Lyca Productions. Expecting only feedback, he was surprised when the production house decided to back the project and helped refine the screenplay. He admitted feeling added pressure, as Lyca began its filmmaking journey with Vijay’s blockbuster ‘Kaththi’, making him determined to justify the faith placed in him.
Although acting still interests him, Jason said he has no plans to step in front of the camera until ‘Sigma’ is released. Asked which Indian actor he would cast opposite Hollywood star Jason Statham, his answer was immediate: “Appa.”
Recalling his childhood appearance in Vijay’s ‘Vettaikaaran’, Jason said he was overwhelmed by the crowd during the shoot and ran to hug his father. Vijay comforted him and encouraged him to complete the scene—a memory that came back to him while directing his own film.
Perhaps the biggest lesson Vijay gave him, Jason said, was to earn his own identity. While his father always assured him that help would be available if needed, he encouraged Jason to seek it only when necessary and build his career through his own hard work rather than relying on his family name.
Jason also shared that he remains very close to his younger sister. Though they constantly fought as children, they now speak every day through video calls while she studies away from home. A passionate film enthusiast, she is also the first person to hear his story ideas and offers honest feedback on his work.
