AAG caught up with writer/directer J.B. Miller to discuss Influences, The Future and The Early Patrons

AAG recently caught up with writer/directer J.B. Miller, to discuss his latest project, The Early Patrons

Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with us. We’re crazy excited for your new project, THE EARLY PATRONS. 

AAG: So, what influenced this story and what compelled you to move forward with the project?

J.B: I wrote The Early Patrons coming from two points of approach.  The first is; I do have a connection to the story on a personal level, the best writing comes from taking a fictional story and peppering it with real life.  The second is I thought about what I had available for locations, people and props.  That is the challenge, writing within a set confine of resources.  Making it happen didn't come to fruition until I put The Early Patrons in the hands of the talented Mark Stacey White, after reading it, he helped me gather the people and make my vision come to life.

AAG: Tell us about the talent involved with your film.

J.B: The start of it all is my partner Mark Burris, our skills sets are a perfect match when it comes to the ins and outs of seeing through a project.  Mark Stacey White is a talented actor, who brought on two equally talented actors; James McClure and Bryan Kruse.  I was one actor short until luck put me in touch with Active Artist Group.  After a brief description of my needs I was put in touch with JoAnna Lloyd, and she was perfect.  On top of all that I had my young crew made up of Clarissa Miller, Nick Mifflin, and Ben Zemba to help make sure it all ran smoothly. I can't gush enough about how wonderful everybody was; no egos, just real artist dedicated to making something special.

AAG: What are your plans for THE EARLY PATRONS?

J.B: Next for The Early Patrons is getting edited, and then seen.  We plan to do some fundraising so that we can get it shown at as many festivals as possible, showing the fruit of our collaboration and gain support to continue.  Look for The Early Patrons on the internet and on the circuit.

AAG: Whats next for you?

J.B: I have a handful of shorts that I’m going to produce, all to build a reputation. These are all stepping stones to get my two feature screenplays produced.  I can't see myself doing anything else; I was meant to be making films and I will charge head long into the fray without a doubt. I don't have a giant ego, I just love film.  I will do anything; know anybody who needs help with a project?

Drop in on the happenings of The Early Patrons on their FB page at: THE EARLY PATRONS

J.B Miller discusses the next scene with talent Mark Stacey White and Bryan Kruse.

The Lovely JoAnna Lloyd is all smiles on the set. 

As a special treat, Active Artists Group was able to chat with some of the talented individuals who were a part of this wonderful film. And they gave us the lowdown on what it was like to work with J.B. Miller.

Mark Stacey White - "Steve"

"Working with J.B. was energizing for me. He truly has a passion for it.  I love when a director has that fire inside. It lets me know that he's going to do whatever it takes to make his project the absolute best it can be."

JoAnna Lloyd - “Lori, the Bartender”

I was really blown away by everyone. I'm new to acting and I really learned so much about technique today from the guys! And J.B. was great.

Bryan Kruse - “Ray”

The movie should appeal to the core values in all of us.  It asks you to examine what you might be capable of in a circumstance as tragic and heartbreaking as what we are presenting. My character, Ray has some great moments that I enjoyed bringing to life for such a friendly crew.  Mark, James and JoAnna are all tremendous talents and our director, J.B. Miller has a clear vision of both the movie and the realities of production.

Drop by AAG to learn more about Mark Stacey White, JoAnna Lloyd and Bryan Kruse.