| Heather Beers
Recognize the name? Even a little bit? Probably not. That's a shame, I
promise you. Heather Beers started off her feature film career in a 2002
film version of the classic play, "Charly." Largely known for her roles
on the LDS film circuit, Beers is one of the most gifted, expressive
and, yes, beautiful young actresses working the indie film circuit
today. From her spirited yet heartbreaking performance as "Charly" to
the wonderfully funny and romantic "Baptists at our Barbecue" to her
most recent film, "Propensity," Ms. Beers elevates low-budget indie
films with her natural presence, glowing heart and willingness to find
the multiple layers of every character she plays. She has quickly become
one of my "must see" actresses working today. She can be seen currently
on the TV series "Everwood" and in this year's "Propensity."
Emily Blunt
There's a much better chance that you've heard of Emily Blunt, and if
you've not heard of her yet then odds are you will soon. Most recently
known for her performance as Emily in "The Devil Wears Prada," Blunt has
exploded on the scene with five projects currently wrapping up
production. Able to project a unique combination of bitchy and sincere,
Blunt took a role that could have been a mere caricature and made her
part hated, part pitied and part adored in "The Devil Wears Prada." A
British actress, Blunt has a natural gift for that ever present dry
British comedy. Recognized in Britain for her breakout role in "My
Summer of Love," Blunt captured a Teen Choice Award here in the U.S.
this year. Blunt may very well be the first of these 10 women to break
out of this pack of unknowns.
Agnes Bruckner
Bruckner literally exploded on the film scene with her 2002 film,
"Blue Car," a film about sexual abuse in which Bruckner played a young,
vulnerable student who rediscovers her strength. The widely acclaimed
performance was a favorite on the indie scene, and 21-year-old Bruckner
has appeared in feature films and on TV since "Blue Car." Next up for
Bruckner is "Haven" with Orlando Bloom" later this year, though she can
also be seen in "Peaceful Warrior," which is currently on the arthouse
circuit. Bruckner has made at least a couple of missteps ("Venom" and
"Murder by Numbers"), but remains a talent to watch. Bruckner possesses
a unique gift for vulnerable yet intelligent characters, and remains
poised for a break-out. Have you heard of her? If not, you will.
Julia Jentsch
Widely acclaimed for the recent "Sophie Scholl: The Final Days,"
German actress Julia Jentsch has also offered widely praised
performances in "Downfall" and "The Edukators." Her upcoming films
include "Bob's Not Gay" and "I Served the King of England." Much like
Bruckner, Jentsch seems to excel in portraying women of tremendous
vulnerability and strength. Since her first film in 1999, 28-year-old
Jentsch has quickly become one of Germany's leading actresses and is
just being discovered by American moviegoers.
Miranda July
I must confess that I barely included Ms. July on this list. With
only three acting roles to her credit, Ms. July is much more known for
her writing/directing. Her break-out role, in fact, was in her own film
in 2005, "Me and You and Everyone We Know." Ultimately, I cannot deny
that even with her limited film experience Ms. July remains an actress
to watch in the future. Proof of her talent lies in a short she shot
with John C. Reilly for director Miguel Arteta. The short, shot with a
budget of $150 is nothing short of amazing. In fact, July is nothing
short of amazing.
Giovanna Mezziogiorno
Mezzogiorno should, undoubtedly, be a household name in America.
She's talented, sexy, and has several incredible films to her credit.
This 31-year-old Italian actress has become notable for a wide variety
of films dealing openly and honestly with human sexuality. Films such as
"Facing Windows" and last year's Oscar nominated "Don't Tell" have
proven that Mezzogiorno isn't just a pretty face. She's an immensely
talented, risk-taking actress whose presence on the arthouse circuit may
yet make her a name here in the U.S. Mezzogiorno will soon be seen in
"Love in the Time of Cholera."
Mary Lynn Rajskub
If you are a faithful viewer of the TV series "24," then there's a
good chance you've actually heard of this actress. As Chloe O'Brian,
Rajskub has gotten to the brink of becoming a household name.
Thankfully, she hasn't forgotten her independent acting roots and has
recently offered mesmerizing performances in "Mysterious Skin,"
"Punch-Drunk Love," and this year's "Little Miss Sunshine." Her next
film is "American Fork," but she can still be seen as Chloe on "24."
Lisa Ray
One of Bollywood's favorite actresses, Ray broke out in the U.S. in
this year's Deepa Mehta film, "Water." Her performance as a young woman
both immensely spirited and ultimately tragic is award-worthy and
unforgettable. Almost exclusively in Indian films before "Water," Ray
currently has three U.S. films in the works. "Water" is now available on
DVD, and be sure to read my four-star
review of the film!
Victoire Thivisol
At the amazingly young age of 4-years-old, Victoire Thivisol gave a
heartbreaking performance in the French film, "Ponette." Portraying a
child grieving the loss of her mother, Thivisol's performance was
devastating, real and nothing short of stunning. With three other films
to her credit, including 2000's "Chocolat," Thivisol remains one of the
best young actresses working today.
Leonor Varela
34-year-old Leonor Varela first came to my attention only last year
after a viewing of the remarkable film "Innocent Voices." As a young
mother attempting to protect her children in a warring nation, Varela is
powerful and mesmerizing. After viewing this film, I began tracing back
in Varela's career and found one phenomenal performance after another
ranging from the TV series "Arrested Development" to films such as
"Blade II," "The Tailor of Panama" and others. A native of Chile,
Varela's roles have ranged from sexy to sincere, strong to surrendered.
In each, Varela offers a screen presence that is captivating. With
several films coming up, you should have multiple chances to catch
Varela soon!
So, what do you think? Agree? Disagree? Think I left someone off?
Think I should have left someone off? Feel free to e-mail me with your
suggestions! Who knows? I may very well print them in an upcoming
column! |