One of the most accomplished and beloved names in the scene, Morrigan Milam has crafted an immensely impressive catalog on the strength of her stellar work in front of and behind the camera. Now, in honor of Women in Horror Month, I talk with her about her early interest in the industry, some of her past projects, and her film "Martial Girl Massacre."
Me: Hello and thank you for taking the time to do this. First off, when did you get into horror in general? What films specifically got you into watching horror movies?
Morrigan Milam: I got into horror pretty early in my childhood. I was extremely young when I watched “The Evil Dead 2,” which remains my favorite horror film ever. I also grew up watching “The Bride of Chucky,” “Thirteen Ghosts,” and more tame ones like “Beetlejuice.”
Me: When did you initially discover a passion for acting? What aspect of this industry appeals to you?
MM: I was an early teen when I discovered I really enjoyed acting. I have always found safety in film. Growing up, I was bullied heavily for always being the “weird kid,” so having friends was really hit or miss. I always had my movies, though. Which led me to try working in haunted houses since, at the time, that was the closest to film I could get.
The industry as a whole is so fun and fascinating to me. What truly appeals to me is the ability to bring people’s art to life. The gift of giving life to characters is something I take very seriously.
Me: Is there any specific type of character you prefer playing? What do you look for in a character to be excited and interested in playing it?
MM: Characters with depth and attitude are my favorites. Lots of sass. I crave the ability to show my emotions on screen more than anything, so any chance given to play a “smartass” is welcomed. As far as what I look for in a character, layers. Lots of them. Much like Shrek, I am also an onion when it comes to characters I prefer to play, so layers are a must.
Me: What do you do to stay in character while on-set? When you're not filming, how do you pass the time between takes?
MM: I do my best to be able to separate the character and myself between takes, but in certain situations, I do end up being quite the method actress. It’s fairly easy for me, as my background as a haunt actress really helps with that.
When I’m not filming, running lines, or touching up makeup. I’m usually playing games on my DSi or reading romance novels. I’ve been reading a lot more these days. It’s extremely important to stay well-read, even if it’s fiction.
Me: Having worked on plenty of short films early in your career, what tools and skills do you acquire working on those that transferred to future film projects?
MM: Patience, honestly. As well as the ability to work fast and under pressure. Sometimes scripts get changed entirely, or people are a no-show. You gotta roll with it.
Me: With one of your first starring roles as Lauren in the film “Debbie Does Demons,” what initially attracted you to the role? What can you recall about your time on-set?
MM: So much, but truly it was the ability to work with a director I have watched a long time, coupled with the fact that “Lauren” is a character with such a great personality. I remember the excitement I felt when I asked about what sounds to make when I was foaming at the mouth during my initial possession. When I delivered my take, he said it was the best he’d heard, which really made me feel good about my growth as a new actress.
Me: Working with a cast of experienced performers such as Jessa Flux, Angel Bradford, and Donald Farmer, what tips and tricks did you learn as an actress from working on the film?
MM: I had met and worked with Angel before” Debbie Does Demons.” She’s always so prepared, and I recall her showing me her script binder and making a mental note to do that for the next script I got. I did. I’ve been doing it since. I gained so much confidence from that set as a whole as well. In myself as an actress and as a person outside of the set.
Me: Following this, you appeared as Kristy Kreme in “XXX-Mas,” Morrigan in “Lust, Magic, and The Witches’ Sabbath,” and Vi in “Coven of the Black Cube.” Considering some of the scenes you were filming, what were the sets like at these times? How did you and the rest of the crew handle the types of scenes being filmed?
MM: Depending on the scenes being mentioned, I think we handled it well. Very professional and always a closed set when needed. The more emotional scenes tended to have quick heavy moments after the initial delivery, but it was always easy to bounce back quickly after.
Me: With a dual role as Deputy Callahan and her twin sister in “Waspzilla,” what did this experience add to your repertoire as an actress?
MM: I mean, it was hard, I suppose, but I changed so much about what I did for that part of the film. I learned a lot of what not to do, especially after viewing the finished product.
Me: As well, you’ve turned to directing with the short ‘Martian Girl Massacre.’ What can you tell us about the film?
MM: It’s a wild ride packed into a 15-minute short film. Lots of gore. Laughs. Aliens. Everything you need in a low-budget indie film.
Me: Where did the inspiration for the short come from? What led to the decision to bring the project to life at this time?
MM: The inspiration was hentai. Honestly. Haha .. I was asked by Donald Farmer on a podcast interview to make a short film for part of his anthology “Amityville Aliens.” Which is now available for preorder on Amazon, btw. I decided then and there to give it a go.
Me: What was the set like while shooting the film? How did the cast and crew react to the type of film being made?
MM: The set was small and fun. Everyone was basically a seasoned chicken in the film industry, so it wasn’t anything new to them. I do think they quite enjoyed my madness.
Me: Do you recall having any odd or funny on-set stories about yourself or any of the other cast/crew members?
MM: Yeah, haha, our cameraman, Travis, had a makeshift poncho we had to craft fast for Tim Hale’s death scene because it was... very wet.
Me: What do you do to keep your creative energy flowing?
MM: I’m always doing something. Always. Crafting. Dancing. Filming. Or running around with my kiddos.
Me: What else are you working on that you'd like to share with our readers?
MM: Currently:
“My Blade is Your Salvation” as “Rachel” directed by James Dean.
“The Devil’s Melody” co-lead role as “The Lady in Red” directed by Montavius Parker.
“Midnight Delivery” lead as “Emma” by Montavius Parker.
Me: Lastly, being that this is our Women in Horror Movement, what special message do you have for any women out there looking to join in the industry in any capacity as you are one yourself?
MM: Do. It. Don’t wait. Don’t second-guess. Do it. Your art deserves to be seen. You deserve to grow. Your voice matters. We are all paving the way for other women. We are all taking steps to ensure we will always have a place for other women to create.
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