Today's "up-and-comers" are tomorrow's (okay, not literally tomorrow's, more like next year's) hot Hollywood stars. Sure, you probably know what your favorite movie was this year, and which actors and actresses lured you into the theater with every. single. movie. And, of course, there's a definite rush in seeing your long-established faves win accolades. But let's get real for a minute: Kristen Stewart hates the paparazzi so much that frankly, the girl could go hermit on us any second and then where would we be? Who could fill her vampire-wooing shoes?
Okay, so maybe that's a little dramatic, but seriously, let's not forget the little guys who are soon-to-be big guys. Especially since the winner of the Best Breakout Star Golden Popcorn at the MTV Movie Awards has historically had some staying power (past winners include the likes of Rachel McAdams, Zac Efron and one Mister Robert Pattinson). Let's take a look at this year's contenders:
Andrew Garfield—"The Social Network"
As the ex-BFF to Jesse Eisenberg's Mark Zuckerberg, Andrew gets pretty fantastically screwed over in "The Social Network." But as an up-and-coming actor trying to make a name for himself, he couldn't have done much better. Andrew has that subtlety that just begs for an Oscar-worthy role. Could "The Social Network" lead to such a role?
Chloe Moretz—"Kick Ass"
Was Chloe not the definition of "Scene Stealer" in "Kick Ass"? Her violence-happy, profanity-laden performance made her the standout in a movie that co-starred established actors like Nicolas Cage. What can we say? Kids say the darndest things when they're playing with dangerous knives and beating up on thugs more than twice their size. Or is that just Chloe?
Hailee Steinfeld—"True Grit"
Talk about Oscar-winning potential: Hailee was nominated for an Academy Award for her breakthrough role in "True Grit." Anyone who can hold her own opposite an eye-patch-clad Jeff Bridges has our respect.
Jay Chou—"The Green Hornet"
Musical-prodigy-turned-movie-star Jay Chou wowed fans with his portrayal of "The Green Hornet"'s iconic Kato. His ability to take a role and make it his own could be his ticket to the A-List.
Olivia Wilde—"Tron: Legacy"
Did anyone else completely not recognize Olivia in "Tron: Legacy"? The wig. The attitude. The total package. Even with a fairly familiar face, Olivia became the character and was totally lost in the role—in the best way. This chameleon-like adaptability could allow her to play against type, a challenge the best actors seem to crave.
Xavier Samuel—"The Twilight Saga: Eclipse"
Just when you thought everyone with their name in the "Twilight" credits was officially a star, they bring out some fresh blood. Xavier tore up the screen as Victoria's newly-turned boy toy and would-be protector. We've come to expect intensity from "Twilight," and Xavier didn't let us down.
The MTV Movie Awards air Sunday, June 5 at 9/8 C.
Have you voted for Best Breakout Star yet? Who do you think will win? Tell us in the comments and on Twitter!
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