Jack O'Connell broke out in a big way in 2014, establishing himself as one of the industry's premiere up-and-coming talents. The 24 year-old actor had a standout year, giving three excellent performances in three very different dramas that will no doubt have him in high demand across Hollywood. Oh, and he was in 300: Rise of an Empire. The unflinching Starred Up saw O'Connell deliver an explosive performance as a young inmate transferred to an adult prison where he encounters his father, an acclaimed turn that put a lot of people on notice about the talented youngster. The actor followed it up with '71, an action-tinged thriller that sees O'Connell provide another outstanding turn as a British soldier isolated in Belfast at the height of The Troubles. While Angelina Jolie's Unbroken hasn't become the awards-botherer that many were predicting it to be before it was released, O'Connell overcomes the prestige picture schmaltz to give a performance that is both likeable and intense in equal measure. After enjoying such a breakout year, there is little doubt that Jack O'Connell will continue his rapid ascent to the top of the industry in the years to come.
Runner Up - Chris Pine
Despite playing the main role of James T. Kirk in the blockbuster Star Trek franchise, Chris Pine has been unable to definitively establish himself as leading man material outside of his signature role. While A-list movie stardom may continue to elude him, the 34 year-old still enjoyed a great year, one that showcased a previously-untapped versatility. While Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit may have been an instantly forgettable attempt at rebooting the franchise, Pine was nonetheless convincing as the analyst way out of his depth in the field. Horrible Bosses 2 showcased a penchant for comedy, with Pine's Rex Hanson a scene-stealing addition to the otherwise-underwhelming sequel. Into the Woods saw the actor take on a musical, and he managed to hold his own against the star-studded ensemble cast. However, reuniting with his Smokin' Aces director Joe Carnahan saw Pine deliver what could be the most memorable performance of his career as eccentric billionaire playboy Roger Karos; an unforgettable supporting role, Pine enters the movie via a naked parachute jump and things only get weirder from there in a turn that is equal parts disturbing and hilarious.
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