In a bold move, director Miles Levin, diagnosed with epilepsy, has chosen to confront his condition head-on, rather than hide it. His upcoming feature film, "Under the Lights," is a testament to his determination to shed light on the often-overlooked experiences of those living with this neurological disorder.

Unlocking the Honest Truth: Levin's Leap of Faith in Storytelling

Unveiling the Unspoken Narratives

Director Miles Levin firmly believes that the most powerful stories often emerge from the depths of our personal experiences, the ones we might be hesitant to share. "The best movies come from journal entries you wouldn't want anyone to read," he says, acknowledging that true authenticity often lies in the vulnerability of our innermost thoughts and emotions. Levin has made a conscious decision to take an "emotional leap" with "Under the Lights," drawing from his own journey with epilepsy to craft a narrative that he hopes will resonate with others who have faced similar challenges.

Embracing the Relatable Complexity

Levin's approach to storytelling is rooted in the belief that the most compelling narratives arise from the very things we might prefer to keep hidden. "If you have a story that comes out of you with no risk whatsoever, it's less likely to be honest. But if it's something you'd rather hide under your bed… It can be relatable to other people," he explains. By delving into the personal experiences he has never shared with anyone, Levin has crafted a story that he believes will strike a chord with audiences, as they recognize the universal truths that often lie beneath the surface of our lives.

Challenging the Stigma through Empathy

Levin's decision to bring his own experiences with epilepsy to the forefront of "Under the Lights" is driven by a desire to challenge the stigma and misconceptions that often surround this condition. "I owe that to those who are not in a position where they can share their story. They are afraid of being ostracized, of losing their jobs. I'm not – no one is going to crucify me. And if I do tell my story, it might be safer for other mercats to come out later on," he explains, recognizing the importance of using his platform to amplify the voices of those who may feel silenced.

Forging a Path for Authentic Representation

Levin's commitment to authenticity extends beyond his own experiences, as he has carefully assembled a cast that brings a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those living with epilepsy. Pearce Joza, who stars in the film, has been praised by the epilepsy community for his empathetic portrayal of the protagonist, Sam. "He's profoundly influenced the epilepsy community with his empathy towards our situation. We have so few torchbearers. The core problem we face is that we don't have advocates coming from the outside of our world. We're afraid they can never truly understand. Pearce is someone who truly understands," Levin explains, highlighting the importance of authentic representation in shaping the narrative around this often-overlooked condition.

Navigating the Complexities of Family Dynamics

At the heart of "Under the Lights" lies the intricate relationship between Sam and his mother, played by Lake Bell. Levin acknowledges the raw and honest nature of these scenes, reflecting on his own experiences with how his epilepsy diagnosis has impacted his family. "I've been asking myself: 'Can I actually put this on paper?' Although it's about a very specific experience of someone navigating a disability and how that affects the whole family, part of growing up is recognizing your parents are people. They are complicated as well. My own diagnosis has turned my parents' lives upside down. In writing this script, I understood my mum so much better," he shares, underscoring the universal themes of family, understanding, and the complexities of the human experience.

Redefining the Disability Narrative

Levin is adamant that "Under the Lights" is not just another "teen movie" or a "dreary PSA about this condition." Instead, he has crafted a story that celebrates the resilience and humanity of those living with epilepsy, while also infusing it with moments of humor and entertainment. "We kept saying to people: 'We need you to understand this is not a 'prom movie.' It's not about colorful streamers and make-out sessions while the parents are away. It's about not wanting to feel left behind," he explains, emphasizing the importance of portraying the lived experiences of those with disabilities in a nuanced and empowering manner.

Embracing the Complexities of the Human Experience

Levin's vision for "Under the Lights" extends beyond the traditional disability narrative, as he aims to explore the universal complexities of the human experience. "We are all capable of making fatal errors in the way we deal with each other. Sometimes, the antagonist is someone who means well and they just handle the situation really poorly. It's more reflective of the world we live in. It's not full of bad guys and good guys all the time. Sometimes, it's just full of guys," he explains, underscoring the importance of acknowledging the shades of gray that exist in our relationships and the ways in which we navigate the challenges of life.

A Personal Triumph and a Collective Calling

For Levin, the creation of "Under the Lights" has been a deeply personal journey, one that has allowed him to reclaim the experiences he felt he had missed out on due to his epilepsy diagnosis. "I paid the price to the medical gods. I didn't get to have some of the experiences other kids had, just like Sam, I missed my rites of passage. I never got to be stupid. This film made it all worthwhile. If you asked me if I would go back in time and be cured, now, I would actually say no," he admits, highlighting the transformative power of storytelling and the ability to find meaning and purpose in the face of adversity.As "Under the Lights" prepares to make its debut, Levin's hope is that the film will not only entertain and captivate audiences but also "revolutionize things for this invisible population." By sharing his own story and amplifying the voices of those living with epilepsy, Levin aims to challenge the stigma, foster greater understanding, and pave the way for a more inclusive and empathetic future.