PDF Version (media kit)
Julian Samuel (Actor)
Did you enjoy acting Aashir?
Yes, I loved acting. We had to do many takes because I am not a trained actor; the other actors, especially Billy and Stephanie, helped me tons.
Was your first language Urdu?
Yes, why do you ask? What does this have to do with the project at hand?
Stephanie, Billy, and Maki, are all speaking English as their second language, and I wondered if you were, too. You are a well known director of documentaries, as well as a novelist. Might those interests converge in you directing a feature-length dramatic film at some point?
Only God knows for sure.
Why do you say that? Wasn't your last documentary called Atheism? Aren't you a committed atheist?
Allow me to repeat what Luis Bunuel said: "Thank God I'm an atheist."
What is the best way to introduce oneself to the range of your work?
On the web, I think you'll be able to find information on my documentaries, articles and other published work.
I googled you... You seem interested in libraries.
In 2002 I made a documentary on libraries; then in 2004 I completed yet another work on libraries and democracy, Save and Burn. In part, this documentary takes a look at the destruction of libraries in Palestine and Iraq.
Do you have other projects you are working on?
I am currently working on a novel, Radius Islamicus – should be out in the next decade.
Julian Samuel is a Montreal-based film-maker and writer. Earlier work examined the contemporary relationship between the West, the Middle East and Asia. His most recent documentaries include The Library in Crises (2002), Save and Burn (2004) and Atheism (2006). His published writings are: Lone Ranger in Pakistan, The Raft of the Medusa; Into the European Mirror (transcripts and commentaries); and his first novel, Passage to Lahore.
