Overview:

MAYA is an experimental 360-degree cinematic virtual reality piece written and directed by Sharique Siddiqui. In Hindu philosophy, the term “Maya” refers to concepts of “illusion” and “magic”. This film personifies Maya through a young woman who guides viewers through a series of environments that explore abstract consciousness. Throughout the experience, the film presents various forms of illusion that carry meaning while allowing for subjective interpretation.

Themes:

• Separation - Highlights how we are distanced from our true realities.

• Impermanence - Emphasizes the idea that nothing in this world is permanent.

• Illusion - Uses flowing water to represent distortions of our perceptions.

• Desire - Examines our longing for material things and the struggle to reach deeper truths.

• Detachment - Realizing that everything is a form of detachment when we choose not to engage with it.

• Return - Ultimately, we achieve a sense of detachment from our desires.

My Role:

Lead Editor, On-Set Script Supervisor

Software:

Premiere Pro, After Effects

Highlights:

• Created a dreamlike editing rhythm using discontinuity and layering

• Worked closely with the director to match emotional beats

• Contributed to shaping the visual and emotional arc of the story

• Premiered as a thesis project and selected for internal VR showcase at Ohio University

• 2025 Official Selection of New Media Category at University Film + Video Association Conference