Essam Osman
Sudanese-American Filmmaker | Director | Editor | Co-Director of The Theorists
Essam "OC" Osman is a visionary Sudanese-American filmmaker, director, and editor with over 15 years of experience in the industry. His work bridges the gap between storytelling and social activism, amplifying the voices of immigrants, displaced individuals, and unhoused communities. As co-director of The Theorists, an interdisciplinary collective merging art, science, and social justice, Essam’s films serve as a platform for underrepresented stories that inspire dialogue and drive cultural change.
Essam’s personal experiences as an immigrant who has lived in four countries and faced housing insecurity in Austin shape the emotional depth of his films. His production company, Visual Alchemy Productions, is dedicated to telling stories of resilience, identity, and belonging. His short films, Love in Five Acts and Happens in a While, reflect his narrative expertise, while his feature debut, The Midnight Song, delves into the power of music as a tool for healing and collaboration. As Essam explains in his Director’s Statement:
"After living in four different countries and navigating the harsh realities of my home country, Sudan, I can confidently say that no place has welcomed me and made me feel at home quite like Austin. Here, I’ve found a community that transcends differences in skin color, language, and belief systems—where friendship and creativity flourish. This is the essence of The Midnight Song, a story that celebrates the unbreakable bond between friends, the power of music, and the spirit of collaboration. Through this film, I aim to reflect the values that make Austin a special place, and to explore how art can be a force for healing and unity."
As co-director of The Theorists, Essam continues to create projects that elevate marginalized voices while fostering collaboration between artists across disciplines. His commitment to storytelling as both an art form and a force for social change is evident in all his work, from his leadership in community projects to his films that challenge cultural erasure and celebrate resilience.
Essam’s films have been recognized for their emotional depth and societal relevance, making him a prominent figure in Austin’s indie film scene. He is currently focused on bringing The Midnight Song to audiences, while continuing to collaborate with local and international artists, ensuring that underrepresented voices remain central in the ongoing fight for cultural preservation and inclusion.