Meet Alice Millar | Cinematographer / Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alice Millar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alice, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I think that everything involves risk, and that they key is only taking on the kind of risk that you can handle the outcome of. Going into film, and doing a lot of independent film, has a fair share of uncertainly and risk, especially as a freelancer. I don’t gamble for fun, my whole life is a gamble, but I weighed it up and felt that it was the kind of risk I was willing to take. I try and follow things most aligned with my creative soul, which often means not chasing higher paid work, but hey, you only live once! Working with creative people on projects that mean everything to them, and helping those dreams become a reality is such a great reward, the risk has been worth it… so far!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I work primarily as a cinematographer for mostly independent narrative content and fashion, though I dabble in writing and directing. I’m most proud of the Features I have shot / co- written and directed – “Influence” & “Crossroads of America”, “Attendant”, and “Summer in the Shade”, (In that order). I have worked on other features and shorts but these ones mean the most to me in terms of my specific involvement being essential to the creation of the pieces, both physically and creatively. They are a part of me. Independent film is a hard and somewhat unrewarding road but when someone watches your film, and is moved by it, that means the world. It was not easy, I have had many sleepless months in all sorts of weather conditions, working for far less financial compensation than my time given, and navigated many kinds of interpersonal relationships. I feel like I am at a major fork in my life right now, I just moved back to the UK after over 15 years in New York. I can’t wait for the next film, but am also taking this time to regroup and focus my energy after lots of traveling and different projects. I am really excited about the next one, but I want to make sure its the right one!
My brand is passionate, fluid and seeks to find the beauty in all things.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
In New York – Brooklyn’s Natural Deli (off the Morgan stop).
Syndicated Cinema and Bar
Night Hawk Cinema
IFC Cinema
M Shanghai
Mexico 2000
Taco Chulo
Peaches (Bedstuy)
Turtles all the way down
The Russian Tea Room
Marjorie Eliot Jazz in Harlem
The High Line
The Cloisters
The Met

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Not to be cheesy but, my Mum. She has always supported my creative goals, encouraged me, and given me a roof over my head when its been too much. I couldn’t have done anything without her.

Website: alicemillar.com & alicemillar.com/directing

Instagram: @imalicemillar

Image Credits
Anne-laure Lechat Alice Millar