Thony Mena plays the character of LUCA in End of the Cornfield. Check out our interview with Thony and learn more about his experience voicing Luca and his upcoming projects.
Why acting? What do you love about it?
Oh man. The answer to that question is always evolving in my head. I just love it because I feel like it’s my purpose. I know I can do anything else, but I don’t want to.
This thang called acting is fun, it’s challenging, it’s taught me so much about life and myself, and I’ve been able to see the world because of it physically and through imagination. I could write an essay, but writing isn’t my forte at the moment.
What has it been like leaving the DC/Maryland area and coming out to LA?
An adjustment to say the very least. Back home in the DMV, as we say, I was doing mainly plays. I love it! But I moved to LA to be part of this industry. And it is MASSIVE. There’s so much to learn but I love the challenge.
Now, I will say I do not miss the winter AT ALL. The weather here is dope and there are a plethora of things to do. I do miss my friends and fam. But I have my LA fam: my lovely wife, pup, and a sprinkle of good folks around me to hold me down.
What initially drew you to the project (End of the Cornfield)?
First: If I ain’t having fun, I don’t want to do it. The script was filled with a balance of suspense and humor that just kept me engaged. Second: I wanted to do more voiceover work, said it out loud, and then I was contacted to audition. Ain’t the universe great?
How would you describe your character Luca? Is there a moment or scene (without giving any major plot points away) that resonated with you?
I’d like to combine the answers to both of these questions because who he is resonates with me. Luca is a trickster with a big heart. He also sometimes thinks things are funny when they are not. And honestly, that’s me almost always.
Who inspires you as an actor?
Aww geez! C’mon! Split between: 1. Giancarlo Esposito. That man has done it, and is still doing it, all! He also seems to have a joy and spirit that I would love to find within myself.
And 2. the entire cast of IN LIVING COLOR. I had no business watching that show when I was young, but the freakin amount of talent on that show! If you don’t know, pleaseeeee Youtube it.
What are some of your upcoming projects?
Oooo I got to be part of a short film my homegirl Thais Menendez put together with her company Quien Te Manda Productions titled BADASS. It should be out in some months, but everyone involved was amazing. I got to play an eccentric drug lord. I don’t get roles like that at all. So, I had a blast!
Favorite place in LA: My house
Favorite hike in LA: Baudry Loop Trail (Cuz it’s near my place hehe)
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