Julian

"Julian" is a 2012 Australian film offering a beautiful, humorous, and poignant exploration of the heart and mind of a young boy named Julian who dreams of escaping his mundane reality and yearning to explore the world beyond his knowledge.

Directed by Matthew Moore and written by Matthew Moore and David Taggart, the 14-minute short film features an outstanding and convincing performance by Ed Oxenbould as Julian, a young nine-year-old boy with a wealth of inner strength and candor, sufficient to boost his spirit even in his little world that is characterized by stern adults imposing strict societal norms. Step into the shoes of Julian and embark on a thoughtful and entertaining journey about childhood dreams, rebellion, and the power of the human imagination.

The main plot of the movie is centered in the tumultuous realm of a quiet and conservative suburban school, where Julian attends. He is a bright, well-meaning, and resilient kid cursed with living in an adult-driven surrounding where children are expected to conform and follow rules unquestioningly. The film astutely captures the clash between the world as the child sees it and how he is expected to see it.

The line-up of characters in the film is as interesting as the plot itself. Young Julian's character is excellently portrayed by Ed Oxenbould who brings to life the bold, charming and resilient character. The performance of Morgan Davies as Cindy, Julian’s friend, offers her own unique perspective on the world around them and stands with Julian in his nonconformity. The school principal's character brilliantly portrayed by Leon Ford presents a stern and intimidating figure striving to ensure discipline and conformity.

The story further unravels as Julian transgresses the boundaries set for him and breaks the barriers of confinement through his vivid imagination. He challenges his circumstances with optimism and humor, painting a world that contradicts the reality, which provides viewers with a constant source of entertainment and laughter. However, it doesn't lose sight of the undercurrent of profound sentiment that approaches the boundaries of young Julian's microcosm.

Julian's imagination wanders freely in his school environment, providing a refreshing and childlike perspective on the formalities of everyday life, such as the usual school bus ride or the clock-watching routines in the classroom. The film gently portrays Julian's world and how a child's mind can interpret, analyse, and vector the world in its own unique and remarkable way.

The film's richness also lies in its technical aspects. Cinematographer Simon Harding’s brilliant camera work and Siegfried Fischbacher's beautifully scored background music perfectly support the themes and performances in the film. The screenplay, written by Matthew Moore and David Taggart, captures and underlines essence of childhood rebellion and resilience, and the societal pressures placed on young minds.

"Julian" is truly a heartwarming ode to childhood innocence and the power of imagination. It is a hidden gem that qualifies not only as a children's film, but one that adults can appreciate and enjoy just as much. It is a short but incredibly moving story, a testament to the strength and will of young minds, and a humorous, sensitive narrative about enthusiastic nonconformity. The short film is a must-watch for those who appreciate exceptional storytelling that tugs at your heartstrings and leaves a smile on your face.