Rocking With Jam Man sits down with Ari Millen at Frightmare in the Falls to talk about Eli Roth’s Ice Cream Man, the many clones of Orphan Black, filmmaking controversy, and his latest projects.
Is the Ice Cream Man really the hero?
Millen argues that Jonathan Smiley is misunderstood: he believes the character wants to protect children’s innocence after being wrongly accused and betrayed. He explains the character’s deal with a necromancer and why, in his eyes, Smiley isn’t the villain. Spoilers discussed.
Making an ice cream truck jingle for Eli Roth
Millen remembers an extraordinary audition where he was asked to make up his own melody while performing almost wordlessly. He praises Roth as a collaborative director and recalls how the costume helped him disappear into the role.
An intense film made in 19 days
Millen says the production included roughly 80 excited kids, plenty of fake blood, elaborate stunts and a whirlwind 19-day shoot. Seeing the finished, frightening result shocked him because the filming had felt so fun and playful.
What Ari thinks about AI in film
Asked about the debate over AI in the film’s post-production, Millen makes clear that he was not part of those decisions. He urges people not to overlook the real work of the Canadian cast, crew and practical-effects artists.
Orphan Black clone revelations
Originally expecting to play Mark briefly and then die, Millen describes a call from showrunner Graeme Manson revealing that he would be playing multiple clone characters. He recalls long days changing between characters, including moments when the schedule itself got confusing.
Gold Blooded and Death of a Yellowbird
Millen discusses Cash, a struggling outlaw in the Western thriller Gold Blooded, and his personal film Death of a Yellowbird, made with his longtime friend Cody Calahan. Their story explores fear, regret and deeply personal experiences.
Death Row Meal
For Jam Man’s signature closing question, Millen picks dosa, inspired by an excellent Indian meal the previous night.