We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Miguel Miller a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Miguel, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is a collection of three surreal short films, which, in many ways, encapsulate my journey as a filmmaker. The first of these, CANONIZE ME, was made in 2011, a time when I was exploring the boundaries of reality and the subconscious, seeking to understand the spaces where the two intersect. The film was a reflection of my inner thoughts and questions about life, identity, and the human experience.
Nearly a decade later, in 2020, I completed the second film, ANTES DEL MICTLÁN. Although it was finished during a tumultuous period, it is only now beginning its festival run and will be released soon. This film dives deeper into the ancient and the spiritual, examining the myths and beliefs that shape our understanding of death and the afterlife.
Most recently, I shot A SOUND FROM WITHIN, which is currently in post-production. This film is a culmination of my reflections over the years, a meditation on the internal echoes that guide us, often unnoticed, through our lives.
Although I’ve directed more than twenty projects, these three films embody my style and philosophy as a filmmaker. They are the pieces where my thoughts and emotions are most intricately woven, where I’ve dared to delve into the surreal to find a deeper truth. Each film represents a different stage in my creative evolution, making this collection profoundly meaningful to me.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

For those who may not be familiar with my work, I’m a filmmaker deeply committed to creating stories that resonate on a personal and emotional level. My journey into filmmaking began with a passion for storytelling, a passion that led me to graduate from a prestigious film school, where I honed my craft and learned the technical aspects of the art. However, it was outside the classroom, in the realm of personal exploration and experimentation, where I truly found my voice.
I founded M2 FILMS with a clear vision: to produce films that are not just visually compelling but also rich in meaning and emotional depth. While M2 FILMS operates as a full-fledged production company, capable of handling a wide range of theatrical release projects, I am particularly drawn to those that speak to me on a personal level. I choose projects that I can relate to, that challenge me to explore new ideas, and that push the boundaries of conventional storytelling.
What sets my work apart is the emphasis on the surreal and the philosophical. My films often delve into the complexities of human experience, blending reality with the abstract to reveal deeper truths. I’m most proud of the fact that my work is an authentic reflection of my beliefs and my quest to understand the world around me.
Through M2 FILMS, I aim to connect with audiences who are looking for more than just entertainment—those who seek films that make them think, feel, and reflect. My work is not just about telling stories; it’s about creating experiences that linger in the mind long after the credits roll.
If there’s one thing I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know, it’s that I approach every project with passion and integrity. I believe in the power of film to inspire, to challenge, and to transform. And that’s what drives me every day as a filmmaker.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Resilience in filmmaking often comes down to the ability to adapt and make the best of unexpected situations. Every project brings its own set of challenges, and these moments test our creativity and resolve.
For instance, during the production of my film CANONIZE ME, we had a scene that called for a simple lamp to be brought on set. However, the animal handlers mistakenly brought a goat instead. Rather than seeing this as a setback, we embraced it and found a way to incorporate the goat into the scene, adding an unexpected layer of depth and surrealism to the film.
Another example is from a film called ANTONI-A, where I needed to create the illusion that two 7-year-old children were kissing, even though they weren’t. We carefully framed the shots and used creative camera angles to achieve the desired effect, making the audience believe in the moment without crossing any boundaries.
In another unreleased film titled LAY ME DOWN TO SLEEP, we faced a situation where we were not allowed to shoot a scene at a cemetery, which was crucial to the narrative. Instead of giving up or compromising the vision, we found a way to shoot around the location, capturing the essence of the scene without physically being there.
These are just a few examples of the challenges I’ve encountered while working on film productions. Each time, I’ve learned that resilience is about flexibility, creativity, and the willingness to adapt when things don’t go as planned. It’s about turning obstacles into opportunities and finding beauty in the unexpected.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Looking back on my creative journey, there are a few resources I wish I had known about earlier, as they could have significantly shaped my path. One of the most valuable resources is the community of fellow filmmakers and creatives. Early in my career, I often felt that the creative process was a solitary one, but I later discovered the immense value of collaboration and networking. Engaging with others who share similar passions not only opens doors but also provides support and inspiration when you need it most.
I also wish I had recognized the importance of mastering the business side of filmmaking earlier. Resources like industry workshops, seminars, and even online courses that focus on the financial, legal, and distribution aspects of filmmaking are invaluable. Understanding the business landscape can empower you to make informed decisions, protect your work, and ensure that your creative vision reaches the audience it deserves.
Additionally, access to better film equipment and technology earlier on would have allowed me to experiment more and refine my technical skills. The rapid advancement of affordable, high-quality cameras and editing software has democratized filmmaking, making it easier to bring visions to life. Had I been aware of these tools sooner, it could have expanded the scope of my early projects.
Lastly, I wish I had known the importance of self-care and mental well-being in sustaining a long-term creative career. The demands of filmmaking can be intense, and having resources that emphasize balance and resilience can make all the difference in maintaining passion and creativity over the years.
Being honest I am still working on making myself better, so although I am aware of this weakness, I haven’t master them.

Contact Info:

• Website: [email protected], antesdelmictlan.com,antoni.a.com

Image Credits

A SOUND FROM WITHIN MJI!V
MIGUEL MILLER WRITER/DIRECTOR NATHAN MIKITA DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY HOWARD BRANDE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR/UPM
NATHAN MIKITA, NATALIA CAICEDO, MIGUEL MILLER PRODUCERS MAURICIO SISO ART DIRECTOR MEDO BLACK EDITOR/EX
MATTHEW MIKITA SOUND MIXER/LOCATION SOUND PAXTON LEE MAKE-UP ARTIST/AIR AND COSTUME HASTI VAGHANI MAKE-UP ASSISTANT
VAL GUILLLAME, COREY ZELINSKI ASSISTANT