Emma Corrin and Maika Monroe Discuss Starring in Dystopian Fairytale ‘100 Nights of Hero,’ Shooting in a Haunted Estate, and the Significance of Indie Films: ‘Audiences Crave Original Content’

Emma Corrin and Maika Monroe found it effortless to connect for their roles in Julia Jackmans independent fantasy film, 100 Nights of Hero. Corrin described their on-screen chemistry as really easy, with Monroe adding with a smile, It was there immediately.

The story, inspired by the Middle Eastern folktale One Thousand and One Nights, follows Cherry, a sheltered woman, and her devoted maid Hero, played by Monroe and Corrin. In a dystopian society where storytelling is forbidden and women are punished for failing to produce an heir, Cherrys careless husband wagers on her fidelity, leaving her in the company of his charming friend Manfred (Nicholas Galitzine) for 100 nights. As Manfred pursues Cherry, she becomes captivated by Hero and the stories that pass the nights in a blur.

Both Cherry and Hero long for more than what the world gives them, and that desire for freedom draws them together, Corrin explained. At its core, they simply love each other.

Filming for six weeks at a sprawling estate in eastern England, Corrin and Monroe formed a bond by sharing music during breaks. Corrin recalled, We always had a speaker on, played a lot of Charli XCX, and danced along to TikTok trends. Charli XCX also appears in a small role within Heros tales, though the actors never shared a scene with her. I had no idea what Charli was doing at the time, Monroe admitted.

On their path to joining the project, Corrin said she was drawn to the scripts originality, comparing it to classics like The Princess Bride. Monroe found the story refreshing and praised director Julia Jackmans vision and warmth, noting that their connection extended beyond the project.

Both actresses related deeply to their characters. Monroe connected with Cherrys journey of first love and self-discovery, while Corrin appreciated Heros dry humor and the characters commitment to storytelling despite high stakes.

Regarding the on-set atmosphere, Corrin highlighted the collaborative, grassroots spirit of indie filmmaking. It takes a village every day to bring this to life, she said. Monroe added, Everyone is involved because they truly believe in the story. That energy is very special.

The relationship between Cherry and Hero was particularly engaging to portray. Corrin described their connection as a mix of mutual love, humor, and unspoken understanding, creating a telepathic dynamic onscreen.

Working with Galitzine, the actors appreciated his commitment and humor, despite his simultaneous preparation for a physically demanding role elsewhere. He went 100% in, Corrin noted.

Both actresses emphasized the significance of independent films in delivering original stories. Monroe observed that such projects are increasingly rare but resonate with audiences seeking unique narratives. Corrin added that indie films foster a sense of community, with everyone invested in making the story a reality.

On lighter moments during filming, the actors shared amusing memories: teaching Galitzine the Apple dance, creating a playful version of Charli XCXs song Everything Is Romantic, and dealing with a haunted room in the estate nicknamed Spinning Jenny, where unexplained noises frequently interrupted shoots.

Author: Jackson Miller