The creative process is often as much about growth as it is about the art we produce. Over time, I’ve come to realize that the paths we choose, the people we collaborate with, and the values we uphold are as defining as the work itself. As I look ahead, I’m excited to announce a shift in my creative journey: a focus on solo projects that reflect my vision, values, and commitment to growth.
Digital Work is real work.
"It's Just Content Bro, if you think it will make it more valuable then I guess so"
In digital filmmaking, particularly for platforms like YouTube and social media, the collaborative process is often undervalued compared to traditional film and television. Yet, this space requires just as much—if not more—creativity, technical skill, and adaptability. Digital creators wear multiple hats: writer, director, performer, editor, marketer, and often producer. Despite the immense effort involved, this type of work is frequently dismissed as "not real filmmaking," a perception that can undermine the value of contributions made in these fast-paced, high-stakes projects. I've had the opportunity to work in various capacities helping build and manage channels for different film companies and brands. Through these experiences, I've seen firsthand the immense value that comes from properly handling creative content, social media, and digital platforms. Unfortunately, I've also witnessed the opposite—companies losing entire films due to poor management and negligence. It's a stark reminder of how easily valuable creative assets can slip through the cracks when the proper infrastructure isn't in place. In the case of comedy and filmmaking, social media isn't just a promotional tool—it's often the lifeblood of an audience connection. It’s where the community forms, where feedback happens, and where creators can shape the narrative around their work. Additionally, I've worked with large companies that, despite their success, still manage their social media the old-fashioned way—through password sharing on multiple computers. This is more than just a logistical nightmare; it's a vulnerability that can lead to security issues, loss of access, and a lack of accountability. It's frustrating to see how some companies, big or small, still fail to recognize the importance of structuring their digital content with the same care and professionalism they apply to their traditional work. It is of my opinion that there are safer ways to do so such as giving manager and editor positions to run accounts on a Youtube brand account for instance. That is my personal opinion of course. In today’s landscape, the worlds of comedy and filmmaking often blend together in ways that can sometimes make it difficult to draw clear lines between them. Whether it’s creating short sketches for social media or shooting full-length specials, digital content and traditional film share many of the same elements: storytelling, performance, editing, and the technical skills to bring everything together. Building social media platforms for others is not just a side task or an afterthought—it's real, valuable work. In today’s world, where digital presence often defines success, curating and maintaining a brand’s social media presence is as important as any other part of the creative process. It requires strategy, creativity, consistency, and an understanding of how to engage an audience effectively. Whether it's growing an Instagram account, managing YouTube channels, or creating viral content on TikTok, the effort put into these platforms directly contributes to a company's or creator's success. The work I create sits right at that intersection. I may be producing quick-turnaround comedic content for TikTok one day and working on a more intricate film project the next, but both require the same level of thought, skill, and dedication. The lines between these formats are increasingly blurry. It's scoffed at one second and immensely valuable the next. A video I make might start generating millions of views and the same people who had zero interest in it now might try to co-opt or in some cases that I have experienced, rip it directly from my channel and then upload it as their own without any attribution. In my experience, I've learned that while it’s important to build strong partnerships, it’s equally important to protect yourself and your work. Even if there is a shared vision and mutual enthusiasm, things can go awry when the business side is overlooked. As much as we want to focus on the art, the reality is that working with others in the entertainment industry—especially when big projects are on the line—requires clarity and agreements that ensure everyone is on the same page. Without that foundation, things can slip through the cracks, and before you know it, your contributions could be taken for granted or outright stolen. As I move forward with my projects, I'm focusing more on solo work and making sure that when I collaborate, it’s with partners who share my values and respect my contributions. No matter how big or small the project, whether it's a comedy special or a short video, making sure that my voice is heard and credited appropriately is non-negotiable. At the end of the day, the work should speak for itself, but the creator should also have the right to be credited for their labor, their creativity, and their time. I have learned this lesson in the past and thankfully I have fought for this not only for myself but for others who have worked with me as well. I strongly believe that credits get you work and to deny credit to people in this line of work is to inhibit them from gaining more work. Erasure and diminishing of professional value in order to co-opt someone else's work is professional thievery and negligence. It goes beyond making memes or sharing memes, Memes often build on existing cultural references, trends, or formats. When creating memes, it's common to take recognizable images, phrases, or concepts and add personal commentary, humor, or a twist to create something new. This process involves transforming content into something original by adding creative value—whether through humor, context, or a new perspective. I’ve worked with individuals who not only contributed little to a project but actively erased my name from it, attempting to pass off my work as their own. This is not just thievery—it’s, in plain terms, a dumb move.
"Because it is my name!
―Arthur Miller, The Crucible
For those who may doubt the integrity of the work, I have the distribution files, editing files, and all the masters to back up every contribution I've made. These tangible assets stand as proof of the effort, creativity, and commitment I’ve poured into my projects. The work speaks for itself, and no amount of manipulation can change that. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that standing up for yourself isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. In a world that sometimes devalues creative contributions, advocating for your work and your worth is essential. It’s a lesson I carry with me into this next phase of my career.
Thank you for your time,
Gary J. Miller
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