Interview with Guernslye Honorés
In life, situations have a tendency to improve even when you are feeling discouraged.
As a part of our series called “5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me When I First Became A Filmmaker”, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Lillee Jean.
Lillee Jean is an American actress known for her popular web series Lillee Jean TALKS! Live. She recently acted in the short film ‘Miss Roxie’, and produced, directed, and starred in two comedy films. Her most recent project is So Lillo Qui, an acting monologue show.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit of the ‘backstory’ of how you grew up?
I am genuinely grateful for being given this opportunity. Acting and film have always been a source of inspiration for me, ever since I was young. This unwavering passion drove me to create stop-motion videos on my blog, where I took on the roles of filmmaker, actress, and director. One particular skit I created that brought me immense joy, was organizing an ice skating competition with the American Girl dolls. I created several elaborate storylines and shot all the footage myself. As I progressed through school, separate from my productions, I actively participated in a wide range of performances, including The Nutcracker and an adaptation of The Wizard of Oz. My passion for dance and the art of storytelling across various mediums piqued my curiosity.
Can you share a story with us about what brought you to this specific career path?
Throughout my life, creativity has been a constant presence that has fueled my passion for acting and filmmaking. From performing in school dance productions to creating stop-motion films at a young age, I have always been inspired by the freedom and versatility that filmmaking offers. As a filmmaker, I have had the opportunity to wear multiple hats: writing my own stories, directing my own videography, and even voicing the characters I bring to life. This experience has shaped my career path as an actress and filmmaker and has instilled in me a deep sense of drive and determination.
Can you share the funniest or most interesting story that occurred to you in the course of your filmmaking career?
When I wrote Miss Roxie, it was a deeply emotional process for me. It represented a pivotal moment in my life, where I had to move on and shift my career focus. Studying the Meisner Technique helped me realize that I expressed my emotions through both writing and acting. Taking action is foundational to any creative purpose. The writing itself took place sporadically over several months. Sometimes inspiration struck me while enjoying a cup of tea, while other times it came during moments of deep reflection. Translating the story into film was incredibly fulfilling. As a filmmaker, I carefully considered how to capture the rawness of the scenes and effectively portray color, light, and all other aspects of visual storytelling. Overall, it was an enjoyable experience.
Who are some of the most interesting people you have interacted with? What was that like? Do you have any stories?
During the production of my webseries, Lillee Jean TALKS! Live, I had the incredible opportunity to meet and engage with several renowned Hollywood actors. It was truly a remarkable experience to have Don Most from Happy Days as a guest on my show. He exuded thoughtfulness, inspiration, and a zest for life that was truly awe-inspiring. Another guest who made a significant impact was Neil D’Monte, a multi-talented individual who excels in various roles such as SAG-AFTRA film actor, musician, producer, and director. His unique perspectives on film and its societal impacts were enlightening. Additionally, having Miriam González Durántez, the founder of Inspiring Girls, on the show was an absolute delight. She emphasized the importance of female empowerment and the need for positive role models for all girls — a sentiment that deeply resonated with me.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?
I deeply appreciate the unwavering support, guidance, and thoughtfulness of my friends and family who have played a pivotal role in shaping my success. Their unconditional love and persistent belief in me have smoothed out the challenges along my journey. Whenever I find myself in need of a listening ear or wise counsel, they are always there for me. This level of true friendship is invaluable to me.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
This advice from Queen Elizabeth II of England, “Never complain, never explain,” holds true in many aspects of life. I find it especially relevant in the world of filmmaking and acting. In this industry, being visual is key, and your talents should speak for themselves. There is no need to complain or explain yourself unnecessarily.
I am very interested in diversity in the entertainment industry. Can you share three reasons with our readers about why you think it’s important to have diversity represented in film and television? How can that potentially affect our culture?
The inclusion of diversity is an essential aspect in the entertainment industry as it enables the production of films that authentically represent our society. These films hold the potential to influence future generations and profoundly impact a diverse audience. Through the incorporation of varied characters and narratives, the entertainment industry can offer a more comprehensive and inclusive depiction of our world. Equality and fairness should have always been fundamental principles within this field.
What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now?
I am currently involved in the production of Agent 418, a film that I have written and will be starring in. It is an exciting project for me as it combines elements of grittiness with the constraints of a short film format. My training at the T. Schreiber Acting Studio for Meisner Technique has been instrumental in enhancing my skills as a filmmaker and improving the quality of my productions.
Which aspect of your work makes you most proud? Can you explain or give a story?
I take great pride in the accomplishments I have achieved as a woman. It is truly remarkable that I am able to create stories that resonate with me and receive such positive feedback. Despite the historical challenges faced by women, I find it incredibly fulfilling to have the opportunity to give life to these characters and imagine their daily experiences. It is a constant source of inspiration for me, contemplating how they would navigate various situations and what choices they would make. I find acting, writing, directing, and filmmaking, to be extremely rewarding.
Ok super. Here is the main question of our interview. What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why.
- Producing your own films as an actor makes you a better performer.
- In life, situations have a tendency to improve even when you are feeling discouraged.
- It is crucial to prioritize the development and improvement of your talents and skills.
- Continue taking your classes, and honing your skills!
- When you understand the mechanics of things, you perform better.
When you create a film, which stakeholders have the greatest impact on the artistic and cinematic choices you make? Is it the viewers, the critics, the financiers, or your own personal artistic vision? Can you share a story with us or give an example about what you mean?
There is not one answer. The key stakeholders in film production are the producers, writers, directors, actors, and of course, preserving the artistic vision. Everyone does count! As a filmmaker with Lillee Jean Productions, I have successfully produced multiple short films with limited budgets. Being the sole producer grants me greater creative freedom. However, as more individuals become involved in the process, considerations of percentages come into play.
You are a person of great influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
If I could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, I feel it would be to inspire people to explore their passions without limitations of age or circumstances.
We are very blessed that some of the biggest names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might see this. 🙂
I admire Angelina Jolie for her incredible talent and success as an actress and producer. She has broken stereotypes and shown that beautiful women can achieve amazing things.
How can our readers further follow you online?
WEBSITES:
https://www.lilleejeanbeauty.com
https://www.projectbullyish.com/
Recent Productions:
Miss Roxie: https://www.lilleejean.com/post/lillee-jean-miss-roxie-short-drama-film-2023
Peony & Violet: https://www.lilleejean.com/post/lillee-jean-peony-and-violet-short-comedy-film-2023
Recent Shows:
Lillee Jean TALKS! Live: https://www.lilleejean.com/lj-talks-live
So Lillo Qui Episodes: https://www.lilleejean.com/so-lillo-qui
Mind Over Beaute Episodes: https://www.lilleejean.com/lillee-jean-mind-over-beaute-episodes
Voyager With Lillee Jean: https://www.lilleejean.com/voyager-with-lillee-jean
Social Media:
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10479689/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilleejean
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/REALlilleejean/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/LilleeJean/
Tumblr: https://lilleejean.tumblr.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lillee-jean-b97621215
PODCAST:
Mind Over Beaute Podcast: https://www.lilleejean.com/mind-over-beaute-podcast
LJ TALKS: https://www.lilleejean.com/podcast
This was very meaningful, thank you so much! We wish you continued success!
About the interviewer: Guernslye Honoré, affectionately known as “Gee-Gee”, is an amalgamation of creativity, vision, and endless enthusiasm. She has elegantly twined the worlds of writing, acting, and digital marketing into an inspiring tapestry of achievement. As the creative genius at the heart of Esma Marketing & Publishing, she leads her team to unprecedented heights with her comprehensive understanding of the industry and her innate flair for innovation. Her boundless passion and sense of purpose radiate from every endeavor she undertakes, turning ideas into reality and creating a realm of infinite possibilities. A true dynamo, Gee-Gee’s name has become synonymous with inspirational leadership and the art of creating success.
Lillee Jean: 5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me When I First Became A Filmmaker was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.