On May 25, SHOOT unveiled its fourth annual New Directors Showcase reel. The 25 helmers–including three two-person teams–selected for the Showcase come from diverse backgrounds. However, the bond they share is great style, vision and commitment–whether it be reflected in comedy, visuals or storytelling. Helping fashion the Showcase lineup were entries from SHOOT‘s ongoing “The Best Work You May Never See” gallery, assorted submissions, and feedback from agency creatives and producers. Here’s a look at this year’s field:
Jody Lauren Miller
No company affiliation
Aquafina 2006 Resolutions’ Siphoning (Web film)
How did you get into directing?I began my production career at NFL Films. I started out edge numbering film as an intern and slowly advanced to popping film cores as a production assistant. I was so good at my first two jobs that I quickly moved up to crashing Avids as an associate producer. I finally achieved my ultimate goal of having an office with a door. Between writing scripts, editing segments, and directing shoots it wasn’t too hard to figure out that directing was the coolest part of the whole process.
Why do you want to direct commercials?I have such a passion for directing spots. I love the :30 story and the challenge of making “it work”.
What is your most recent spot project?I just finished going through the Group101Spots program. Group101 has been the most amazing whirlwind of insanity that I am not even sure which spot was my last. I shot seven spec spots in six months with my own money so I am a little dizzy. But after a good nap I can say with much certainty it was Dunkin Donuts’ “Status” for Dan Cassidy.
Do you have plans to work in other areas–e.g., shorts, films, features or TV? Have you ever done any of that in the past?YEH! I’m certainly focusing 100% on spots right now, but like every director I too can say, “I have a screenplay, or 3, I want to shoot!”
What do you think is the best part about being a director?There are a lot of “best parts”. For example: getting the right performances from your actors, taking an idea scribbled on a napkin and turning it into something great, being around all kinds of talented and ambitious people. There really isn’t much I don’t like about directing.
What’s the worst part?The pressure — no wait — I love the pressure. The hours — nahhhh — I can do an 18-hour day no problem. So I’m not really sure what the worst part is for me. I have had my share of bad production experiences, but the absolute worst ones were when I was a PA … so as a director I’m not going to complain about much.
