READ MORE- Big Oscar hopes for Colin Farrell and Saoirse Ronan in ‘The Way Back’

The Irish acting star Saoirse Ronan has revealed the secret to her success is performing in film roles that scare her to death.

The Carlow teenager has already one Oscar nomination under her belt for her performance in the wartime drama Atonement, alongside Keira Knightley.

Expectations are high that the star will be nominated for her stellar performance in Peter Weir’s film “The Way Back”.

But the actress has revealed that she has achieved such success in her short career so far as she likes seeks out challenging roles.

"I don't want everything to be just handed to me on a plate. So I do look out for challenging roles -- I want to do things that scare me and test me," she revealed.

"There's a lot to consider before I just say 'yes' to a movie, it's a joint decision.

"It's me and my parents and it depends on who's involved, what the story is like and how interesting the character is," she added.

But the young starlet vowed that she won't let the success go to her head.

"I listen to music, watch films, read books. I spend time with family and friends, although I love time alone too.

"I don't feel famous. I don't like unnecessary attention, but I can't complain, because most of the attention I have had has been positive," she said.

READ MORE- Big Oscar hopes for Colin Farrell and Saoirse Ronan in ‘The Way Back’