Actor/Writer Jana Miley (LITTLE ISSUES)

LITTLE ISSUES, 4min., USA
Directed by Jerah Milligan
When Andy discovers mid-coitus that her new beaux has a micro-penis, she rushes to her roommates who remind her that he’s thoughtful, adventurous, and way too hot to let go of. Besides, he’s had this Little Issue his whole life: he must know how to use it!

Get to know the actor/writer Jana Miley:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

I wanted to make something light-hearted! There is so much pain going on in the world, and I wanted to be silly and make people laugh. That being said, I still think we can bring in a good message through these kinds of projects. “Little Issues” at it’s core is saying: just because something is *different* doesn’t mean it’s *wrong*.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?

I originally wrote this film in college, and filmed it with some other students for a class. No matter how many times I edited it, or had friend’s edit it, it just wasn’t what I wanted. After a few years, it was still in the back of my mind. I was at point where I was ready as an actor to make my own content, so I got some friends together and made it happen! From official start to finish, it was about 7.5 years. I definitely don’t wanna wait that long next time!

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?

Bite-sized fun!

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

Myself! This was the first project I ever produced, and I learned a LOT about what not to do. Being my own producer meant I had to set the deadlines, which are easy to push when you’re the boss.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

I was a nervous-excited. It was so nice to get specific and thorough feedback, which there often isn’t time for when everyone is filing out of a theater. Especially great to get feedback from people who don’t know me and aren’t there specifically to see my film!

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

I’ve always been a performer, mainly an actor and a singer. I loved writing growing up, and in college I was in a program that allowed me to write for myself, which I realized I loved doing. I trained in both theatre and film, and still love both, but there’s just something about being on set, as well as the accessibility of film that has kept me focused in that area.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?

Probably “The Wizard of Oz.” I had the two-disc DVD growing up. It was just so magical – I was obsessed.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

My favorite part of the festival experience is meeting other filmmakers. I’ve had several instances where I’ve run into filmmakers at multiple festivals across the country. It’s so fun to make these connections and find people you get along with and would want to work with in the future! It’s a little funky with online festivals, but having more opportunities to connect with the other filmmakers, maybe from your specific category, would be awesome.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?

Great! I’m constantly blown away with how many festivals are happening all around the world.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Chicken tenders. You just can’t go wrong.

11. What is next for you? A new film?

I’ve got a couple short films in the mix, as well as a book! Everything I’ve been writing lately happens to revolve around my journey in recovery from alcoholism – I’ve been sober for over 4 years now and am so ready to share my story!

Leave a comment