AceShowbiz - Dakota Fanning, who has been in front of the camera since she was a child, shared her wise advice for aspiring actors at the premiere of her new horror thriller, "The Watchers".

"As long as you love it, you're in the right place," she emphasized. "Even when you're working in challenging conditions, if you can still enjoy it, you're on the right track."

In "The Watchers", Fanning plays an artist who becomes stranded in a mysterious forest and seeks refuge with three strangers. The film, directed by Ishana Night Shyamalan, marks the feature directorial debut of the 24-year-old daughter of Oscar-nominated director M. Night Shyamalan.

Despite working with a newcomer, Fanning saw no difference in collaborating with Ishana. "She's such a cool person, full of energy and creativity," Fanning said. "She had a clear vision but was also open to collaboration."

Fanning's costars in "The Watchers" praised her focus and professionalism. "She's incredibly focused and has been doing this for so long, she's a pro," said Oliver Finnegan.

Beyond her advice for young actors, Fanning also revealed that Tom Cruise, her on-screen father from "War of the Worlds", still sends her a birthday gift every year.

"He always sends me something every year," said Fanning, who turned 30 in February. "He gave me my first cellphone when I was 11 years old, and he's remembered it every year since then."

Despite assuming the gesture would end over time, Fanning is grateful that Cruise continues to check in with her. "It's so thoughtful, and I really appreciate it," she said.

As she enters her 30s, Fanning is grateful for the opportunities she's had and wants to focus on "being super present and enjoying it."