About this Short Film
My Friend, Jules (2019) by Victoria Valassis is a short Australian film included in the Focus on Ability International Short Film Festival. The work explores themes of deafness and cochlear implant, family, inclusion, sport, filmmaking and the everyday achievements of young adults with sensory disability. It offers a personal, human view of individual ambition and the quiet wins that shape identity, without claiming a single narrative. Presented alongside other festival selections, My Friend, Jules invites audiences to consider how support, creativity and determination contribute to belonging and success. A thoughtful, accessible piece that celebrates ability in many forms.
Film Details
Film Transcript
My disability doesn't stop me from doing anything in life because I give everything a go and I never give up. I think I'm very lucky to have good parents. My mum helped me a lot when I was little to make sure I had the best support with my hearing implant, and my parents are always there for me if I'm having any problems. It also helps that I have good friends that accept me the way I am.
Filmmaker
Victoria Valassis is the filmmaker behind this entry. See every Focus on Ability entry from Victoria Valassis.
What an awesome film Jules vdeo is so inspiring and gives an outlook on how people should embrace life regardless of its struggles Awesome job bud
Great short film. Thanks for sharing your story. In this film I see a man who is loved by many and fills his life with happiness. Live Laugh Love
Wow do impressed and touched I work in a school K-12 co-Ed private. I feel the students staff parents would all benefit be blessed for your short film to be shown. Well done
Great film loved the positivity and zest for life. Thank you
Great job Victoria from Yaiya Papou xx
Great to meet you Jules. Youre such an inspiration to those around. Well done on your positivity strong courage to just keep on going. I also have a son Julian who has cerebral palsy. He is nearly 17 has been a swimmer for most of his life to help him with his disability. He wants to be an exercise coach for people with a disability. He is very much like you has never let his disability get in the way of anything hes tried to do.
We dont always get to see the full picture. Thanks for giving us this powerful reminder and to Jules for sharing with you well us more about his journey so far. It makes me want to uncover everyone elses story.
This film is so inspirational makes us really realise that even with a disability you can still lead an active normal life if you persevere be strong minded determined. Well done Julian
Such an amazing video It's amazing to see someone so talented using their skills to help others great job
Absolutely loved this so heart warming and kind. Shows someone who's so raw and vulnerable about something that challenges their life. Yet shows the courage bravery and resilience you can have when you have a positive and strong mindset with a great support network. Jules didnt let it discourage his way of living. Loved the film amazing work Vee Xx
What a fantastic and inspiring short film raising awareness is a powerful tool. Keep up the great work.
What an incredible video. An incredible talent xx
A beautiful short film with such an inspiring message
Inspiring and real. Well done the both of you. Good luck and wishing you all the best.
Congrats Victoria on a beautiful short film. Keep living big Julian such a wonderful example of living life to the max.
All the best
Congratulations on a magnificent Heartfelt inspirational and uplifting film. So many young people in life look for excuses not to do things. Julian you are using what could be a perfect excuse to live your best life and get things done.I have known you all of your life and you are a gift to the world. Keep using your gifts. Xxxxx
An uplifting and delightful insight into Julians life abilities and accomplishments not only about living with a disability but about living.........inspirational to many young men trying to find their way in life....
Thanks Victoria for making such a special video. It's so important to spread awareness of 'abilty' as it's more often seen as 'disabilty'. Well done And good on you Julian
Bravo Victoria This film about my brother brought tears of absolute joy. Im so proud of you little brother. Arent we lucky to have the family we do.
Known Jules since we were kids and he is honestly the nicest human I've met. Great insight into his life.
A lovely piece of footage depicting an insatiable determination for living and enjoying life. Quite humbling
This is a beautiful story Julian and it really inspire people. True there is nothing in life that is impossible.
An amazing and inspiring video showing life is precious and how amazing this beautiful boy Jules who doesnt let anything stand in his way of his disability living life to the fullest. What a star Victoria love this film makes me very happy. You both are fabulous.