From teaching to feature films: Derek Miller in The Running Man

MetFilm School Leeds lecturer and actor Derek Miller is in cinemas once again. This time, he’s appearing alongside Glen Powell in Edgar Wright’s highly anticipated sci-fi thriller The Running Man, from the original 1982 novel written by Stephen King. Sharing his Hollywood experience and passion for improvisation, Derek continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of talent at MetFilm School Leeds.

Bringing industry experience into teaching

Originally from Chicago, Derek spent over two decades working as a professional actor in Los Angeles before moving to the UK.
“I’m from Chicago originally,” he said. “I spent about 20 years in Los Angeles working as a professional actor before moving over here. Now, I live just outside Leeds. Teaching at MetFilm School lets me stay connected to the industry while sharing what I’ve learned with students.”

A serendipitous casting

Derek’s route into The Running Man came through a casting director’s recommendation – and a bit of luck.
“It was a rare thing to have an in-person audition,” he said. “So much is done by self-tape now. I was sitting in Soho across from the studio when I saw Edgar Wright walking up the street. I’ve run into him a few times around Soho before, but to see him that morning felt serendipitous. I thought, “This is meant to be.”

A perfect fit for an improv expert

On set, Wright encouraged improvisation – a perfect match for Derek’s creative background.
“I come from the improv world,” he explained. “I trained and performed at Second City in Chicago and Los Angeles, and I’ve always used improvisation as the backbone of what I do.”

Describing the shoot as “a dream come true,” Derek added:
“Everything about it was impressive: the design, the costumes, the world they built. There were so many moving parts in the scene I was in, even a car sequence I wasn’t expecting to operate. It was just pure joy from start to finish.”

Though keeping quiet about his specific role, Derek teased:
“I’m not going to say what role I play in the production just because I’ll let people watch and find me. Not sure what I’m allowed to say either!”

Working with Glen Powell

Derek praised his co-star Glen Powell as “humble, funny, and down-to-earth.”
“Glen is on the verge of becoming one of the biggest action stars in the world, but he’s still the nicest guy,” Derek said. “We talked about our families, about comedy. He even sent a lovely video message to my wife. He’s someone you genuinely root for.”

Sharing industry insights at MetFilm School

With credits spanning Transformers: Dark of the Moon, Wrath of Man, The Man Who Fell to Earth, and Netflix’s Wednesday, Derek brings a wealth of experience to his teaching.
“I’ve worked on both sides of the camera, as an actor and in casting, and I help students understand what’s actually happening in the room,” he said. “I want them to leave here feeling ready to hit the ground running.”

He added: “That’s the unique thing about MetFilm School: the lecturers are all still working. We know what’s being shot, who’s casting, and how to connect students with opportunities.”

Recently, Derek directed a short film in Leeds, bringing together students, alumni, and staff as cast and crew. “It’s great that we can all look out for each other,” he said. “Here in the North there’s a real sense of community.”

Lessons from the big screen

Reflecting on his recent project, Derek shared the advice he gives his students:
“I tell them to be bold, and to take risks. Improv teaches you to trust yourself and keep pushing a scene forward. It’s always easier to pull an actor back than to push them to give more.”

His biggest lesson? Perseverance.
“It took me ten years before I landed my first series lead,” he said. “There were plenty of times I thought about giving up. But you keep working, even on commercials or short films. It all builds experience and confidence.”

“I’m grateful for every chance to get on set,” he said. “Working with Edgar and Glen reminded me why I love this job. It’s the collaboration, the energy, the creativity.”

Although Derek missed the film’s premiere while attending a wedding in Chicago, he’ll be watching The Running Man on opening night. “I can’t wait to see it,” he said. “It’s a true Edgar Wright film — the music, the energy, the style… I think it’s going to be his biggest yet.”

Connecting Students to the Industry

Derek’s achievements highlight MetFilm School’s mission to bridge the gap between classroom and industry, giving students the tools, insights, and connections to build successful screen careers.

Interested in learning from real industry professionals like Derek?

Join us at our next Leeds Open Day on Friday 6 December to explore our facilities, meet our expert lecturers, and discover what makes MetFilm School Leeds such an amazing place to study.

Book your place here and take the first step toward your future in film and screen acting.