We had the wonderful opportunity to interview Ellyse on her exciting new projects! Check out the interview below.
Hi, Ellyse! Thank you for granting the interview. Congrats on being in the Netflix Series “Lunatics” and the feature films: “Occupation Rainfall” and “Rise of the Animals”. You’re also close to filming the role of Mortecia alongside Danny Trejo in the upcoming film “Dunamis.” What an amazing year you’re having!
Thank you! I’m extremely excited to be filming alongside Danny Trejo in the sci-fi “Dunamis”, also starring John Jarret and many more amazing cast members. I’m prepared and ready for production coming up soon and have a short fight scene that I will be practicing for shortly.
“Rise of the Animals”, also a sci-fi, by Director James Hyams is in post-production right now. This film will portray a very important message, so I can’t wait for it to be viewed. I have been cast in a variety of genres and enjoyed filming with Chris Lilley in his comedy series. It was very hard to keep a straight face while working with him.
Let’s talk “Lunatics.” What can the audience expect to see?
My role in Lunatics is playing an annoying teenager. Skateboarding and just hanging around Keith’s shop with a group of friends. Keith then has a brain wave and uses us to model his new clothing range. We had to act very reluctantly about his idea and begrudgingly went along with it. It was hilarious.
You’re playing a soldier in “Occupation Rainfall.” That’s exciting! Did you have to do any specialized training?
Yes, we had the usual safety briefs on Set with the Armourers on how to carry and hold a gun before the scene run-throughs. My dad is ex-Army and an Armourer so he has taught me a lot about weapons handling, and trained me on safety, carry and use of different kinds of guns.
I am currently doing stunt training and this also helps to keep me fit. I like to prepare for any scenes I’m involved in.
You’re playing the role of Jess in “Rise of the Animals.” Tell us more about your role.
I can’t say much, however, playing the role of Jess was extremely fun and eye-opening. Most of the scenes were intense and emotional which gave me the opportunity to push the boundaries of further developing my character.
You’re near production, filming with awesome Danny Trejo. You play Mortecia. The film is in pre-production, so we know you can’t say much. Can you tell us how you received the role?
I was asked by writer and Director Mack Lindon to be in the “Dunamis” Pitch Trailer. They were filming mostly action, and voice over, but not much dialogue.
One of the scenes we had to be up at 2 am, and I was riding one of the horses up to a cliff face area, which was just amazing. To have the opportunity to do two things I love (horse riding and acting) is one of the best things I could’ve asked for.
It was from there that Mack Lindon asked me to play the role of Mortecia for his feature Film “Dunamis”.
With such a busy schedule, how do you find time to relax?
I am lucky enough to live on acreage, so on my downtime, I like being at home riding my horse, Roxy, and relaxing with my dogs. I love the beach, and when I get the chance I enjoy swimming in the ocean.
How are you enjoying the progress of your career, thus far?
This is just the beginning of my career and I am balancing Filming with my last year of school, and have just completed my Certificate III in Tourism.
I am working hard towards my chosen career in the film industry. It’s a tough industry, as everyone knows, so I keep training, studying and working on my craft. I’m enjoying the journey. I believe that if you love what you do and are good at it, you can achieve anything. Believe in yourself, and be around others that believe in you.
Is there a role you would love to play?
I would love to play the lead in a Hollywood action film. I like the characters of Wonder Woman, Maya Thurman Hawke’s character in Stranger Things and Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games.
When looking back on your productions, what resonated with you the most and why?
Seeing all the moving pieces come together really made me appreciate the process of filmmaking.
In your opinion, what makes a film special?
From the audience’s point of view, being able to see that the actor has crossed the bridge to a believable character mentally and physically. This really makes me appreciate the film just like Jack O’Connell in Angelina Jolie’s film, “Unbroken”.
What do you enjoy most about the film industry?
I enjoy meeting new, emerging actors and learning new industry skills. James Hyams is one of my favorite directors because he allows me to express myself through the character and encouraging improvisation.
Do you have anything else you would like to share about your career?
I am looking forward to completing my senior school studies and graduating this year, while still enjoying every aspect of the film industry. I have more Australian film projects towards the end of the year that I am involved in. I am always working towards my goals by getting involved in every available workshop and all classes available to me.
Connect with Ellyse:
IMDB: pro.imdb.com/name/nm9512658?ref_=nm_nv_usr_pro f
Twitter: @ellysegoughactor.
Featured Credit Image: Ricki Vale Photography.
About Author
