Berenice Bejo: The actress known for her role as 'Christiana' in the 2001 film, A Knight's Tale, plays 'Peppy Miller' who goes on to become a major Hollywood star in The Artist.
Jessica Chastain: Well-known for her roles in The Debt, Take Shelter, and The Tree of Life, she plays 'Celia Foote' in The Help for which she has got a lot of praise also.
Octavia Spencer: Best known for her role on Ugly Betty as 'Constance Grady', she plays 'Minny Jackson, a black maid in The Help, earning her a nomination in this category.
Shailene Woodley: A knockout performance as George Clooney's daughter in the comedy drama The Descendants has earned this young actor raving reviews, a Globe nomination and possibly, future Oscar glory.