Gillian Emmett
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Interview With Gillian Emmett By Chris 29/6/07
Gillian Emmett is a sydney based actor who I found on myspace.
Liked what I read and saw and thought publicity was needed for her.
So read on and casting,directing people use her in your film.
1.What made you want to be an actress?
Inside me is a 6-yr-old that never grew up. The adult in me also believes 100% in the power of film to hold a mirror up to society, challenge people’s beliefs and shift their consciousness. There is much good that can be done.
2.Who were your idols growing up?
Nicole Kidman. The Dalai Lama. My big sister.
3. Do you plan to make the move to America for your acting career?
Sure, I’d like to work in the US at some point, and in Europe. I hope to get some significant work behind me in Australia first. I think that’s important before moving into a bigger, more competitive market. Of course, Australia will always be home.
4. What has been your favorite role to play to date?
I recently did a short film called “Wake”. It followed a young woman as she struggled to deal with grief and buried her pain in drugs, alcohol and sex. I loved the emotional challenge of the role. In the dramatic climax I think I achieved a subtle visceral quality in my performance. My own struggle with grief in the past helped me explore the role and it was nice to turn that into something meaningful for others.
5. What do you think of the state of Australian film industry and what needs to be done?
I might be a bit controversial… but I think people should stop whinging and stop expecting things to be handed to them on a platter. High quality work will always attract attention and $$$. If work doesn’t attract those things, the reason, and the solution, is therefore clear. Continually develop your skills. Attend training. Review and reflect. Be an entrepreneur. Create. Contribute. Inspire. Serve a greater purpose. The work will come.
6. What are some of your favorite movies?
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Memento. Schindler’s List. Elektra. Con-air. X-men. The Legend of Bagger Vance.
7. What movies you have seen lately you have really enjoyed?
A cool French film called “Priceless” with Audrey Tautou. Schindler’s list.
8. Who have you enjoyed working with?
I enjoy working with directors who take a collaborative approach with actors. It allows me to give a creative contribution rather than just be a puppet. I enjoy working with teams who are professional, and also enjoy a chat and a laugh during the down times.
9. Have you had any bad experiences as an actor yet?
Of course. On the personal side, it’s a big roller coaster of ups and downs. There are lots of rejections. On the professional side there have been times when I felt like a puppet on set and had no room for creative contribution. Not my thing at all.
10. Do you think tools like the IMDB & MySpace are good for your acting career?
Absolutely… after all you found me here!
11. Have you used the Internet to help with your acting career?
It’s one of my essential tools.
12. What have you got lined up next?
I’m currently waiting to hear back about a big audition. I can’t give details as I might not get it, but here’s hoping. I’m also currently studying screenwriting online with a US company and I’m doing an acting workshop in July with some US casting agents. I’ve got a couple of short film projects and a commercial coming up. I believe in on-going training and participation – it’s a way to continue to hone my skill and also a chance to reach an audience.
13. What’s in your stereo at the moment?
“Speaking American” by Bruce Shapiro. Pink. Missy Higgins. Ben Lee.
14. What are some of your favorite music artists/bands?
As above.
15. Did you learn a lot from acting school?
Yes. I studied the Meisner technique at the Actor’s Pulse in Sydney and it has given me a solid foundation upon which I eclectically draw from other tools and techniques as needed.
16. Who would you most like to work with?
The list is endless. Cate Blanchett. Hugh Jackman. Noni Hazelhurst. Matt Damon. Johnny Depp. Meryl Streep. Helen Mirren. Judy Dench. There’s a few for you.
Last words – I invite filmmakers and entrepreneurs to contact me to arrange an audition or meeting to see if there’s anyway I can contribute to your team. In addition to my acting skills, I am a big picture creative thinker and love to brainstorm and plan projects. I look forward to working with you soon.
