During the vibrant Red Sea Film Festival, actor Omar Miller discussed his experience in Gabriele Salvatores’ new film, “Naples to New York.” This historical drama, influenced by Federico Fellini’s early work, follows the story of two children who become stowaways on a ship bound for America in 1949 and embark on a transformational adventure.
Miller portrays George, an American cook who becomes an important part of the children’s journey. What distinguishes this film is its unique genesis; it is based on a narrative written by Fellini and his partner, Tullio Pinelli, in the 1940s, long before Fellini rose to international prominence as a filmmaker.
“This is one of the few times as an actor where you sign up for one film and end up making another film, but that other film is better than the film you thought you signed up for,” Miller said during an interview at the Deadline Studio in Jeddah.
Miller, best known for his parts in “True Lies,” “Ballers,” and “The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey,” described the production process as “almost like a fairy tale.” He emphasized the film’s capacity to connect with audiences through the innocent perspectives of its youthful protagonists.
Miller lauded filmmaker Gabriele Salvatores for his meticulous artistry. “It was not about commercialism. “You felt like you were making art,” he explained. He appreciated the director’s dedication to each scene while creating an environment that empowered performers to express their originality.
The film’s development carried a sense of responsibility, particularly given its connection to Fellini’s oeuvre. Miller likened the pressure to “not burning the turkey” at Thanksgiving but was confident in the team’s abilities.
Looking ahead, Miller expressed excitement about his next role in Ryan Coogler’s Sinners, which Warner Bros will release in March. He referred to the project as a “whopper” that viewers should see in theatres. He was particularly impressed by Coogler’s directing, saying, “Ryan is as good as anybody behind the camera today.”
