The New Short Film 'In Search Of Julian' Based On The Journal Of Julian Sidana Is An Impressive Take On Self-discovery And Mental Health

In life, direction is always more important than speed. At the tender age of 16, Julian Sidana has already made her mark as an accomplished writer and actor, making her debut in an award-winning biographical film – In Search of Julian. Conceptualised by Julian herself and produced by her mother- Dolly Sidana, it was produced under the banner of Juliana Productions.

While the theme behind the film was to portray the journey of Juliana, it also raises awareness about the impact of people pleasing through cinema. As an adolescent, Juliana has been subject to a lot of indecisiveness, mood swings and depression and all of these emotions have transpired through the film. It is a 37-minute docudrama which follows the life of a girl who struggles to be accepted by her peers but along the process, she finds an inner calling and higher meaning to life. 

 

Her experience joining a boarding school at the age of 10 draws many parallels with other teens who join boarding schools. Owning up to one's individuality while also trying to ‘fit in’ weighs her down. She struggles with her mental health at this young, tender age; but ultimately finds an inner calling which is spirituality and she rises above all her insecurities. Documenting her emotions in a journal as an outlet began as a therapeutic process. However, this also became the tip of a massive journey into the world through a short film.  

 

As a person who has lived the life of the story of this short film, Juliana has been successful to capture its essence. Right from the execution to the direction, the film seems flawless at a glance. One can only empathise with the emotional struggle that is shown through the film. Life is full of complexities and is an emotional rollercoaster, especially as an adolescent. There were many places that touched my heart deeply and I was moved to tears.

 

In Search of Julian has already won an award for the 21^st season of the Black Swan International Film Festival. Also known in Japanese as ‘Ikigai’ – one’s reason for being, this short film can really help any disheartened soul to take charge of their life, not lose hope and embrace self-discovery. On a young entrepreneurial journey, Julian also hopes to publish a book soon.

 

The film reflects the significance of self-discovery, discovering one’s own true path in life and prioritising oneself. Julian’s future work is surely something to look forward to!    

 

The film was screened for the first time in Mumbai at the Veda Factory - A Mumbai-based venue where theatre and cultural events take place. Post-screening of the film, there was a panel discussion by eminent personalities such as Karina Pandya, Amjab Khan, Satish Purohit, Nikita Bisht, J Brandon Hill, Rajkumar Kanojia and Satish Purohit. Special acknowledgement has to be given to Badrinath Sabat and Twinkle Bane. The entire event was hosted by Julian's mother - Dolly Sidana, Param Kalra and Tarun Agarwal.