With Sigma, Jason Sanjay is stepping into a space where expectations come with the territory. The upcoming film marks his directorial debut, placing him behind the camera for a Sundeep Kishan-starrer that blends action, adventure and heist elements. But while the film is being watched closely because of his lineage, Jason says he would rather let the film determine how he is perceived.
The filmmaker, who is the son of actor-turned-politician Vijay, has been vocal about wanting to establish himself through filmmaking rather than rely on his family name. In an interview with SS Music, Jason acknowledged that Sigma comes with both affection and anticipation from audiences, but also the inevitable scrutiny that accompanies a debut from a star family.
“A lot of love, expectations and curiosity come by default. There will also be a lot of negativity. But I am not worried because I know that once people watch my film, the first few minutes will make those thoughts disappear. That will speak for my journey,” he said.
Jason added that he is aware that some people may assume that his path into cinema was easier because of who his father is. However, he does not see explaining or defending his journey as his responsibility. According to him, the film itself will be the answer to those perceptions.
“People will assume I had it easy because they don't know me. It is not my job to explain or justify that. My work will speak for me,” he said, adding that his priority is to make films for audiences and accept their response, whether positive or negative. He also said he would be happy to receive criticism if viewers do not connect with his work.
The filmmaker also reflected on how his understanding of being Vijay's son changed as he grew older. While he enjoyed the attention and recognition surrounding his family during childhood, he became increasingly conscious of the responsibility attached to the surname as he matured. “As a child, I enjoyed the recognition our family got. But as I grew up, I became more conscious of the responsibility I had because of my father's fame and because all eyes were on us,” Jason said.
Rather than viewing that pressure solely as a burden, he considers it something that has pushed him to work harder. He feels the expectations surrounding his debut have, in some ways, worked in his favour by making him put in greater effort. “In a way, it is a blessing in disguise because the pressure of making my debut has made me give 200 per cent of my effort. It has given me the mindset to push harder,” he said, adding that he has experienced the pressures that come with being a first-time filmmaker despite his background.
Sigma stars Sundeep Kishan and Faria Abdullah in the lead, with Raju Sundaram, Sampath Raj, Shiv Panditt, Yog Japee and Sheela Rajkumar among the supporting cast. The film is produced by Subaskaran under the Lyca Productions banner, with Thaman composing the music, Krishnan Vasant handling cinematography and Praveen KL serving as editor.
The film has been described as an action-adventure entertainer with treasure-hunt and heist elements. It was initially scheduled for a July 31 theatrical release but was subsequently postponed. Sigma is now slated to hit cinemas on October 2.
