10 Breakthrough Performances From 2014's Rising Movie Stars

9. Macon Blair - Blue Ruin

Given the proliferation of cinematic revenge thrillers over the decades it takes something special for yet another tale of vengeance to be elevated above the rabble. Few films have quite so successfully achieved this as this year's surprise independent hit, Blue Ruin. At first glance, what is most commendable about writer-director Jeremy Saulnieur's approach to the genre is its decidedly anti-vengeance take - this is a tale of revenge served up incompetently and without any real planning in which the ineptitude of the protagonist shapes the unfolding events. But beyond this it's about family - those who would seek revenge against another for the murder of their parents - and it's here where Blue Ruin emerges as a mature piece of filmmaking. It all works so well on account of the performances, and none more so than Mason Blair in the central role of Dwight, an angel of vengeance with wings clipped to the point of uselessness. The desperation, pent up anger and ultimate lack of emotional resolution in the aftermath of his actions are etched in the lines on his face throughout.