Emma Monk, who grew up in Mulbring and went to Toronto High School, has been cast as the female supporting lead in Brutally Honest Love, a coming-of-age film based on true events.

Written and directed by Mark Nunnari, the entire cast has not yet been announced but is set to showcase some well-known actors from shows such as Neighbours and Rush.

Emma, 24, said her desire for acting started off while she was studying drama in high school.

Despite suffering stage fright and doubting her abilities compared to the other students, she realised it was what she wanted to do after starting a teaching degree at university.

“I always loved film and was inspired by so many characters and actors growing up,” she said. 

“For me I wanted to become an actor to help tell the hard hitting stories that I feel need to be brought to life.” 

She enrolled into Screenwise at Sydney, where she was noticed for her craft and allowed to attend acting school in Los Angeles.

Since then she has worked on a few features and short films, including some that have gone international such as Busted, directed by Steven Hirst, and #Zombie which is set to appear in the Reel Horror film festival at Movie World. 

Emma said being from a small town spurred her to achieve. 

“I feel that if you have the love for something and the passion you can make it happen,” she said.  

“Growing up in a small town definitely enhanced my passion and drive, which is definitely what you need in this industry [when] you are constantly going after work.” 

Her background has now turned out to be a blessing, with people saying she knows herself well and is not afraid to put herself out there.

“I think that all has to do with growing up in a small town and being grounded, a good neighbour and not afraid of getting dirty,” she said. 

Emma encourages aspiring actors to “go for it,” but be ready to knuckle down.

“If you want it bad enough you will eventually get there, but don’t expect to get there without hard work,” she said. 

She says to find an acting class and a mentor to ask lots of questions to.

She also advised to be careful when looking for an agent, as some will just want your money.

“And don’t give up,” she said.

“It’s a hard, uncertain and harsh industry, but so worth it when you understand it.”

After Brutally Honest Love, Emma will focus on her new production company Hop2it Productions, where she and friend Dianna Alde have a few things in the works including a film based around sexual abuse.

Emma hopes to eventually head back to the USA and one day be in a sitcom.