Multi-Genre Film Producer Lania Kayell – Horror, Comedy In Television, Digital Media, Film: Interview

Multi-Genre Film Producer Lania Kayell – Horror, Comedy In Television, Digital Media, Film: Interview

Editor’s note: The below interview was conducted by Cindy Mich.  The award-winning journalist has written for us in the past, including an interview she did with the founders of independent film festival Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival, as well as the small theatre non-profit AMT Theater.  

From IMDB: Multi genre film Producer Lania Kayell is known for her impressive work across television, digital media and film. With a keen eye for creative content that resonates, Lania has been instrumental in steering crowdfunding campaigns, casting ideal talent, and developing projects from conception through to post-production. Her recent projects include ‘The Dead Place’, an independent horror feature film that raised over $60,000 in crowdfunding and ‘We Got Ours’, a comedy short featuring comedy legends, which is already being accepted into many prominent film festivals. Both films showcase Lania’s ability to marshal resources and rally support for a diverse range of content, as well as her skill set in bringing visionary projects to life. She finds deep joy in not only completing a project, but also, seeing its profound impact on viewers. This is truly what fuels her work. Thrilled to talk more with her today.

As an artist yourself, I am certain you have your own creative process with each project for which you participate. Can you take us through your personal steps of development that are staples? Do you subscribe to the belief that art should derive more so through spontaneity or structure?

Thanks for the opportunity! I try to gather as much information about the creator as I can. I look for their strengths and note any areas that may need attention. I meet with them regularly to make sure that the process aligns with their vision. It is important for me to understand their goals and how they would like to present or distribute their work.

If we are referring to something like writing a script, I think that it’s beneficial to be as spontaneous as possible during the creative process. Structure is also important and can be worked on as things develop. There will be more need for structure as we get into preproduction, but we can almost expect moments where things don’t go as planned.

Your primary role is film producer, but you also have done acting in the past. I see your last role was in 2021. How important is sustaining an acting career to you? Further, from the acting side, what is your viewpoint on AI and its potential for possibly replacing actors in the future?

I think it’s important to continue auditioning and improving your craft in between roles. Actors should be able to have their likeness and work protected without any risks or losing future opportunities.

Let’s turn towards casting for a moment. It has been said the best casting directors possess the following traits: strong communication skills, organizational skills, creativity, and they manage their time well. Would this be a fair assessment? Moreover, what do you believe that you bring to the table from a casting perspective that others in your field may not?

These traits are certainly helpful! I have learned from casting directors and there are plenty that I would love to work with! There really isn’t anything that sets me apart from others. I think that my experience with acting helps me observe and connect with other actors.

Regarding film production, one of the crucial components in my mind that you manage is film marketing/distribution. With the landscape of distribution changing regularly, how do you ensure that your projects are seen?

A plan and budget for this phase are something I would like to discuss with the director during the early stages of production. I investigate options for distribution and marketing and share that with the director. It is also important for me to know the previous work and experience level of the director for whom I am working. Some directors want to submit to festivals, while others may not. All these things are crucial, especially for the producer.

I am aware that you have been proactive with the crowdfunding of film projects. To anyone reading this, please state the top three things you believe are necessary to execute a successful campaign. Are you of the belief that casting recognizable actors is a must for funding these days?

It’s helpful to make sure you’re on a platform that works best for visibility of the project and any budget needs. Next would be coming up with a marketing plan and setting prelaunch goals to build as much momentum as possible within the first 48 hours. Casting recognizable names is good but doesn’t have to be a must for raising funds. While casting bankable names isn’t easy, it’s a great advantage for financing, distribution, and getting investors excited!

I find it truly inspiring that you also are deeply committed to efforts in philanthropy. Please elaborate further on these endeavors, and why it is important that you engage in these activities?

Thank you! I think certain events and news reports would affect me in a way where I would want to take some sort of action. On a personal level, as it relates to socioeconomic disadvantages, it further motivates me to get involved with supporting charitable causes and improving resources for others.

Looking ahead, what can we expect from you for the remainder of 2025?

We’re working on completing projects that are in post-production. I am also seeking opportunities to join new projects!

Banner Image: Lania Kayell.  Image Credit – Cindy Mich