The Julia team is made up of filmmakers who share a passion for amplifying underrepresented voices. Given the rising trends in anti-Asian hate, we recognize the power that representation in film and media holds, and are dedicated to creating space for Asian storytelling.

Julia is a biopic short film. One day, Julia faces a test of loyalty and friendship when she is accused of a crime that she did not commit. She has two choices - betray a friend to prove her innocence, or take the punishment herself.

Director’s Statement: Julia is the story of one of my mother’s childhood memories. She grew up in a South Korean orphanage where she endured an incredible amount of hardship. I have always dreamed of telling her story, and wrote this script early last year not knowing when or how I would make it. Last September, my mother was featured in a news segment in South Korea where she talked about the abuse that she experienced at the orphanage. When the news story aired people were outraged and wanted justice for my mother and her orphanage sisters- a stark contrast to the usual stigma against orphans in South Korea. This is when I knew it was the right time to share this story. I want to continue to share her childhood with the world so that everyone can see and appreciate the strength it took for her to survive. If you’re interested in seeing my mother’s portion of the news segment, you can find it under our media tab! 

Since Julia is based on a true story, we have chosen to shoot this project on Super 16mm film. With its soft highlights, pronounced grain, and unmistakable texture, Super 16mm film best portrays the feeling of a memory.

Filming is scheduled for August 2021, and we will begin festival submissions in 2022. 

 

It is incredibly important to share Julia’s story in order to validate what she and her orphanage sisters endured during their childhood. The stories of their abuse have been buried for decades. Only within the last year have some of the victims started to come forward. Storytelling is a powerful tool that we want to use to honor their experiences and acknowledge the hardships that Julia and her orphanage sisters faced. 

 

Cast & Crew - Artists have suffered through the pandemic, and it is important to fairly pay everyone for their time and work.

Equipment - Equipment costs take up the largest portion of our budget. This is essential to giving Julia the production value it deserves. This will cover the cost of camera and lighting equipment rentals.

Film Stock & Development - We are shooting on Super 16mm film and this will cover the cost of our film stock and development fees. We will be processing and scanning our film through Fotokem, one of the best facilities on the west coast. 

Costume & Set Design - These will be key factors when it comes to bringing the Julia world to life. Since the film is set in 1970, we have allocated this portion to fully create this period piece setting. 

Covid-19 Safety - This portion of our budget will cover PPE and everything we need to have a safe set. 

 

 

Because of Covid-19, the safety and well-being of our cast & crew is our first priority. We will be following the CDC safety guidelines during our shoot. Here are a few safety protocols we will be following to ensure a safe shoot this August: 

• Provide PPE for all cast & crew 
• Require everyone to wear masks at all times (with the exception of actors when filming)
• Regular sanitation of equipment and locations
• Maintain social distancing
• Working with a small crew

It truly takes an entire community's support to make an indie film come to life. We are so thankful to have you all alongside us on this journey. Make sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on Julia!