It’s a new year, which in the film world means only one thing: award season is upon us.
This morning saw the announcement of nominees for Bafta’s EE Rising Star Award. It’s the only category in the Baftas that is voted for by the public, and previous winners have included James McAvoy, Tom Hardy, Kristen Stewart and John Boyega. So, yeah, it’s kind of a big deal for these up-and-coming stars. Here’s a quick guide to this year’s nominees…
LUCAS HEDGES
The teenage star of Kenneth Lonergan’s Oscar-tipped heartbreaker Manchester by the Sea was actually discovered by Wes Anderson (he had roles in Moonrise Kingdom and The Grand Budapest Hotel). Next up, see him in Greta Gerwig‘s Lady Bird, with Saoirse Ronan.
LAIA COSTA
Her breakthrough performance in last year’s Victoria got film critics in a flurry of feverish excitement about this Spanish star-in-the-making.
TOM HOLLAND
Hailing from Kingston upon Thames, this Brit-boy-done-good is least in need of a career boost. He is, after all, the new Spider-Man so has mega-budget releases as part of the Avengers universe for the next few years.
RUTH NEGGA
Already a recognisable face from British TV and theatre, this year her career is set to go stellar with the release of Loving, with Joel Edgerton, next month. As a side note, her boyfriend is Dominic Cooper, and these two are shaping up to be our favourite red carpet couple.
ANYA TAYLOR-JOY
The star of last year’s terrifying The Witch is about to appear opposite former Rising Star winner James McAvoy in M. Night Shyamalan’s Split.
Voting is open now at ee.co.uk/BAFTA and don’t forget to watch the awards on BBC One, live from the Royal Albert Hall, on 12th February.