David Meltzer
Danny Goes Aum is an indie drama that beautifully captures the struggles of creative burnout, grief, and renewal against the tranquil backdrop of Goa. Written, directed and produced by Sandeep Mohan, this 104 minute feature is both intimate and expansive, inviting audiences into the inner world of a man on the verge of collapse and renewal. It is not just a story about filmmaking it is about rediscovering love, purpose, and clarity when life feels heavy and stagnant.
The film centers on Danny (Andrew Sloman), a video editor and aspiring screenwriter who finds himself mired in discontent. Professionally, he faces harsh criticism and stifling pressure, while personally, he feels overshadowed by his girlfriend Divya (Divya Sharmaa), whose career is blossoming in ways that only heighten his frustrations. With despair mounting, Danny chooses to retreat to Goa, a place significant to him as it is where his parents once met. It becomes a journey not only of physical escape but of profound introspection and transformation.
In Goa, Danny encounters two women who become catalysts in reshaping his perspective. Lucie (Marianne Borgo), a widow returning to the place where she once shared love with her late husband, brings warmth, humor, and wisdom. Through her stories and spirited energy, she stirs Danny’s creative imagination. The second encounter is with an unnamed Indian woman, portrayed by National Award winner Anjali Patil, whose guarded vulnerability and quiet strength open Danny up to new emotions and longings. Together, these women play pivotal roles in his healing, gently pulling him toward reconciliation with his past and openness to the future.
The cinematography, led by Subhash Maskara, captures Goa in its full splendor the beaches, hidden bays, verdant landscapes, and tranquil moments of quiet reflection. The result is a setting that feels alive, almost like another character in the film, mirroring Danny’s inner journey.
One of the distinctive elements of the film is its visual and stylistic approach. A key contributor to this is National Film Award winner Abhilash Nanda, a celebrated VFX artist known for his work on international titles such as In Time, The Host, Gulliver’s Travels, and the Indian film Vishwaroopam. His subtle contributions enhance the film’s atmosphere without ever distracting from its grounded tone.
The production also carries the weight of strong collaborative backing. Alongside writer director Mohan, the film is supported by executive producers Ryan Bury and James Andrew Felts, and associate producers Sachin Gandhi, Abhilash Nanda, Anjali Patil, Cauvery Adigna, and Neena Kiss. Their contributions help cement the film as an international indie project with both authenticity and polish.
Music plays a vital role in shaping the narrative’s emotional rhythm. Many of the songs are written and performed by Andrew Sloman himself, blending his real-life artistry with his character’s arc. The integration of his music makes the story even more personal, underlining Danny’s creative frustrations and eventual rediscovery. The soundtrack and background score work in tandem with the visuals, heightening both intimacy and expansiveness.
Mohan’s storytelling is grounded in simplicity. Rather than relying on melodrama or overcomplication, he crafts a character driven narrative that resonates with honesty. The film explores themes of grief, the burdens of expectation, creative paralysis, and the unpredictability of life. It reminds viewers that renewal often arrives in ways we do not anticipate, and that letting go of control can sometimes be the key to moving forward.
The performances bring these themes to life with authenticity. Sloman embodies Danny with a restrained yet heartfelt intensity, making his struggles relatable. Patil lends her character depth and charisma, transcending the role of a conventional love interest to become a symbol of change. Borgo shines as Lucie, bringing vibrancy, humor, and poignancy to every scene. Sharmaa captures the emotional complexities of Divya, a woman torn between love and ambition. Supporting roles from Avinash Kuri, Eunice Wlcek, and Mohan himself add sincerity and texture.
At its heart, Danny Goes Aum is a film about rediscovery of purpose, creativity, and love. It is quiet and meditative, yet emotionally resonant, encouraging the audience to pause and reflect on their own lives. While some moments may feel uneven or deliberately slow, the film rewards patience, offering moments of truth that linger well after the credits roll.
Released on September 2, 2025, in the US and Canada on TVOD/Digital/DVD, Danny Goes Aum is now available on Amazon: Watch here. The official trailer can be viewed on YouTube: Trailer link.
Ultimately, Danny Goes Aum is more than just a film it is a gentle reminder that even in our darkest seasons, the right place, the right people, and the right moments can guide us back to ourselves. It is a poetic celebration of resilience and the soul’s quiet but powerful ability to begin again.
