Who's the Next Big Female Movie Star?
Will anyone ever pick up where Julia Roberts left off?
| Amanda Seyfried (23) |
 | I wouldn't call Amanda Seyfried's turn in Mamma Mia! a breakout, but a lot more people recognize her face than did before the awful musical hit theaters in 2008 and went on to become the highest grossing film in the UK. She has a unique look to her and has followed a respectable career path to this point moving from soaps to her film debut in Lindsay Lohan's Mean Girls. She will star alongside Megan Fox in Jennifer's Body, has a role in Lasse Hallstrom's Dear John, is currently filming Chloe for the Oscar nominated director Atom Egoyan and will round out the serious stuff with Zack Snyder's "Alice in Wonderland with machine guns" feature Sucker Punch. Hard to say she won't be giving all audiences a chance to fall in love. |
| Kristen Stewart (18) |
 | Just like Ellen Page, someone needs to teach Kristen Stewart how to smile. While I have no idea why Page always looks so glum I think Stewart's inability to look happy seems to be because she hates the media, something I can certainly respect. Imagine having to answer Twilight questions at every turn and trying to look happy. I know her co-star Rachelle Lefevre was able to do it, and if Stewart had managed to appeal to fans she may be an even hotter commodity, but as it stands casting agents see her as either Joan Jett or as a man in prison, which she is set to pull off in K-11 with her mother of all people currently attached to direct from a script she wrote. I have no idea of how much talent Stewart actually has. None was on display in Twilight, but I liked her in Into the Wild and I will actually be seeing her latest film, Adventureland this coming Thursday. As for her hating the media, just watch this interview with Ben Lyons from Sundance and tell me you wouldn't hate every moment a reporter asked you a question. Lyons even says how nice it must be to not be asked Twilight questions only to ask her nothing but Twilight questions. It almost hurts to watch. |
| Michelle Williams (28) |
 | Michelle Williams started out as the girl with a Webster's-like vocabulary on "Dawson's Creek" and has since gone on to be nominated for an Oscar for her performance in Brokeback Mountain. In 2008 she wowed art house audiences with Wendy and Lucy and was actually one of the bright spots in Charlie Kaufman's Synecdoche, New York. Her talent is undeniable and, in my opinion, shocking considering I watched her in "Dawson's Creek" and never would have imagined she would go on to an Oscar-worthy career. The only film of note on her upcoming schedule is Martin Scorsese's Shutter Island and at 28 perhaps the chances of becoming a box-office draw may be over, especially since she steers more toward the indie features in most cases, either that or movies such as Incendiary where her sex scene with Ewan McGregor is all the rage online. |
| Mary Elizabeth Winstead (24) |
 | Mary Elizabeth Winstead is our second Scott Pilgrim vs. the World cast member to make the list and she is an actress I have come to learn has something of an underground following despite having a limited filmography which really started with The Ring Two in 2005 and includes, Sky High, Final Destination 3, Bobby, Grindhouse and Live Free or Die Hard. Most notable of the bunch is Die Hard, but it isn't exactly a film people remember for Winstead's performance as much as they tend to hate on the fact it was PG-13. Her role in Scott Pilgrim as Ramona V. Flowers is the only role on her upcoming slate worthy of note, so it makes me wonder if the underground movement will always stay buried or if there is a chance of it sprouting into something bigger. |
| Evan Rachel Wood (21) |
 | The only thing that has me doubting Evan Rachel Wood's ability to become anything more than an occasional indie star is her on-again-off-again relationship with Marilyn Manson. I am not saying there is any problem with the relationship or what happens there I am just saying it seems her attention has been elsewhere since the two became an item, which includes her revealing appearance in the Manson music video "Heart-Shaped Glasses". Nevertheless, she remains a top talent even though she keeps herself at an arm's length from general audiences. Her performance in 2008's The Wrestler was fantastic and she hit the scene running with Thirteen in 2003. Coming up she has Whatever Works from Woody Allen and co-starring Larry David and is one of the lovely ladies joining Zack Snyder in the previously mentioned Sucker Punch. I am not sure Wood will ever become mainstream enough to become a big star, but at the age of 21 she still has a lot of time and I would love to see the day she and Manson walk the red carpet at the Oscars together and watch Ryan Seacrest attempt to do the interview. It would be priceless. |
So there you have it. Even though I scoured the Internet to find the most likely 25 names I could come up with including the random mention of a few others I am sure I left off someone (Anna Paquin?) you wish I had included.
Loading ...Links from Other Sites You May Like
Showing 156 Comments
~ PLEASE NOTE ~
If, in any way, your comment is an attack on the author of this post or a previous commenter, your comment will be deleted without question.
Add a New Comment |
Click to Read Our Commenting Rules & Guidelines
Ann Hathaway is a great choice to try and fill the shoes of Julia. The only other one to I even thought of was Rachel McAdams. She seems to steer away from mainstream movies though. Emma Roberts may be best suited to fill Juia's shoes since she most likely has walked around in her auntie's high heels. lol!
Ann Hathaway is a very good choice. Other than her I would say Rachel McAdams, AnnaSophia Robb or even Emma Watson. Ofcourse we have no idea how Emma would fare in non-magic Role!
The only reason that likes of Natalie Portman or Keira Knightley will be denied of this throne is because we dont know how they would look doing romantic comedies.
Meryl Streep is definitely among the most talented but not exactely a "box-office draw". While Mamma Mia did very well, it was more off the songs than any individual actor. Her usual fair is more high-brow and films of that nature aren't generally box office hits.
I would like to see Hathaway become the next Julia Roberts (and she's definitely on the way) and Winslet to be the next Meryl Streep (and she's definitely on her way).
I can't believe you actually included Jessica Biel on this list. She is box office poison and only known for her rear end–the same place her acting skills reside.
Rosario Dawson has a decent shot at taking the title. Don't be surprised when she moves up and takes hold. She is very likable, talented and gorgeous.
Zooey Deschanel and Amanda Seyfried are also fabulous. They both have unusual beauty which make them stand out from the pack in addition to great acting skills.
Katherine Heigl had a shot but she blew it. She would have to do a great deal of PR work to turn that around and it would be questionable if she could even pull it off. She has solidified her reputation as a pain in the rear.
I like Anne Hathaway but I am kind of getting sick of her.I don't really buy the sweet and innocent act she puts out there. She needs to be really careful with her private life cause she got a pass on this ex boyfriend situation. Who knows if she would get a second one should something similar happen again. (You can't tell me that she didn't know anything about what the boyfriend was doing, come on) Good actress but don't let your personal life get in the way and ruin it.
I couldn't vote for any of them. From the 25 women you chose, I'd have to agree with the guys above and say Anne Hathaway. The ones that go for more mainstream fare still have a lot to prove (Katherine Heigl needs to carry more movies by herself, AnnaSophia, Abigail and Hayden Panettiere are way too young, Jessica Biel needs to simply choose more good movies etc.), and the other ones, who have way more interesting careers, seem to go for bold/unpopular choices (Evan Rachel Wood, Ellen Page – Juno aside -, Zooey Deschanel etc.).
Rachel McAdams is immensely talented but she doesn't seem to make a lot of movies… Does she? I love her anyway.
I disagree with you on your Kristen Stewart comments though, I thought she was a natural on Twilight. And Ellen Page, she was the wit of a young Sigourney Weaver. I don't think Sigourney followed any advice on "smile more" after she did Alien.
Oh! Even though I hate her and think she's awful, I have one thing to ask: why no Jessica Alba? She's hugely popular.
I meant to say, about Ellen Page, that she HAS the wit of a young Sigourney Weaver. Sorry about that.
There is a lot of talent listed in this article, but what exactly does it mean to be the next Julia Roberts?
I wouldn’t wish that on the actresses on this list who I enjoy watching because to me it means being relegated to garbage romantic comedies with very few occasions to really turn it on as an actress (Closer is the best thing Roberts has been in and that shows she has serious chops, but only acting in a limited range of films in turn for box office bankability seems stupid)
I'm all for discussion but maybe a better question would be: who is the most talented 30 and under actress?
Because really you could pretty much pencil any pretty face into a romantic comedy, Runaway Bride wasn’t built on Julia Roberts' abilities, it was built on a slightly funny; everything’s going to be ok in the end premise.
As far as talent is concerned I figure the top ten includes these names In no specific order
Natalie Portman, Zooey Deschanel, Anne Hathaway, Ellen Page, Rachel McAdams, Evan Rachel Wood, Michelle Williams, Rosario Dawson, Rebecca Hall, Scarlett Johansson
for me, female stars :
carey mulligan (you'll see,people talk about her next year),
natalie portman (she is natural),
anna hathaway (she is charming)
michelle williams (his act better day by day)
and ellen page (she is next jodie foster)
male stars;
-ben whishaw (if you saw parfume.you understand what i mean),
-daniel radcliffe (he is unlucky in hp because steven kloves can't write good in his part but he is amazing my boy jack,extras and equus.man,he must play psychopath chracters and comedy character either.)
-gael garcia bernal (he is new johnny depp)
-emile hirsch (he is natural)
Although I appreciate the time and effort that went into this topic I think it is a waste of talent. For one thing, I'm not sure what a "Julia Roberts" is, other than a woman who had luck and promotion in the right combination at the right time. I've never been impressed by her talent or versatility. And it's not having children that is holding Reese Witherspoon back, but her poor choice in roles of late. Don't count her out, she has a large very loyal fan base. Why else would "Four Christmases" be such a financial success?
Amy Adams is great and mixes her roles selection up.
Julia Roberts does not act but is just a popular screen personna.
Don't see anyone becoming the "next Meryl Streep" at this point.
I think what Brad wanted to say when he asked for "the next Julia Roberts" was simply: who's the next actress with REAL box-office power? An actress who can carry a movie herself, a woman who has a winning combination of talent, charisma and a huge fan base? I don't understand the negative reactions.
Yeah, Julia Roberts is not the most talented actress around, but she has/had something no other actress had in the 90s. What is it? You name it. I'd never be the one to defend her, but she proved with some roles (especially Closer, as Ross mentioned above) that she can be amazing.
@Scott A. Smith:
There is no one right now that can fill Julia Roberts shoes. I HADN'T EVEN HEARD OF MOST OF THE OTHER new actreses or actors as they are now called. I think it will be awhile before anyone of her caliber comes along.
-Angelicness13
I think Hathaway or young Roberts may be the only ones on this list interested in becoming a "movie Star". Also…they have the right combination of teeth, eyes and lips. Hathaway has bonus breasts. So, if we're talking Julia, I go Hathaway.
Ellen Page is as small or smaller then Portman, so, can't see her as a leading woman. Seyfried will always have to watch her weight…as will Kendrick. Jessica Biel and Katherine Heigl seem like "bitches" and will have to watch their weight.
Deschanel and Blunt I love but are too edgy quirky?
I think if Stewart and Wood can get out of this angsty youth thing, and Wood will get away from the Manson poison…they are the most likely NEW leading ladies…in the old style of Grace kelly and Audrey Hepburn. They have looks, wit, intelligence, height and they are both naturally thin. But they both need to play the game better.
Wow what a list, ,difficult to choose. First of all just let me say that´s there isn´t going to be a next julia she´s unique, she has this ability to charm audiciences that I haven`t seen in any others actresses of your list.
The most talented, in my opinion, is Natalie Portman and she is also very very beatiful, but she doesn´t seem bothered to have mainstream succeses.
Anne Hataway is funny and likeable but she´s not pretty enough.so this leave me with my choice wich is Rachel Mc Adams, I think that if she wants it she can be a huge movie star.
Just the other day I was thinking how AnnaSophia Robb could have some really good potential after watching sleepwalking and the reaping.
It seems to me that more and more people are blinded by the big marketing campeigns. That's why Anne is winning this poll, but that's blatent horse shit if you ask me!
People dont watch and/or appriciate the little movies with limited marketing/promotion.
Clearly Evan Rachel Wood will be the next big thing, wheter you like her or not. Besides her there are maybe three more candidates to be a BIG movie star.
Nathalie Portman, Ellen Page and a more obscure actress in Zooey Deschanel.
The long shot would be Kristen Stewart, but thats way early to tell.
michelle monaghan very pretty and is getting better "look out" i would say the next julia and audry
First of all, where's Emma Watson? (I know she won't be the next Julia Roberts but its OBVIOUS she has a better chance than Hayden Panettiere or Jessica Biel…); I think Dakota Fanning has a chance, she's still very young, she has appeared in lots of movies along some fine actors (she must have learned something), shes actually talented and seems very focused (and although Twilight is a horrible franchise its obvious why shes doing it). Keira Knightley has a chance too, I can't believe shes only 23, her name is very powerful in the industry and she has a very respectable filmography that keeps growing and getting more and more varied… I don't think Anne will be a big box-office draw, a lot of people dislike her and she has some serious problems choosing her roles.
I went with Heigle because she is so likeable and slowly rising. I have to say though, Seyfried does GREAT work on Big Love.
Funny I came across this today, I just watched Pretty Woman last night after watching The First Wives Club. I was telling my friend that those films are such an important part of film history because you will never see that again. There is NO one to fill Julia Roberts shoes. End of story. You will also never see actresses like Goldie, Diane and Bette in a good comedy film again either so treasure your DVD's! Not only does film in general change over the years, but so does the talent and acting. There is also NO Meryl Streep replacement although I will say with confidence that Kate Winslet is the best of her generation. The only one I would even give an honorable mention to on this list in regards to Julia is Anne Hathaway with her mega-watt smile and likeability factor. I also think Abigail Breslin is very cute and enjoyable for her young age. She does not freak me out the way Dakota does. She is a kid who happens to be a good actress. Dakota is an adult in a child's body. I hate that. It's like watching Village of the Damned come to life.
The only person in Meryl Streep's league is Meryl Streep, honestly. She is her own competition, and Julia Roberts is America's Sweetheart, and everyone loves her but she hasn't done anything major and worth mentioning in a while, no pretty womans or erin brockovichs, just oceans and romantic comedies, which is what she is known for I guess but I think if anyone was going to be like her it would be Amy Adams or Anne Hathaway, but they both have been oscar nominated this year, amy adams has 2 now. oh and no, Kate Winslet might be the closest thing to Meryl in our generation, but it is still far far off. Meryl Streep is beyond any actress AND actor that we have ever seen, ever. She is by far the best living actress, actress ever, and actress period.
I think you are going to have to change your 'rules'. Amy Adams is the total package and has her act together. Her box office draw is amazing, according to most sources and her breakout hit 'Enchanted'. She should have received an Oscar for 'Enchanted', but was ignored. I think, in the next few years, she will propel herself to the top of the 'Top Female Star' category with ease. I think you underestimate how many fans she has. She can play youinger than '30' easily. She is a dream actor, a 'chameleon.'
I think that a great actress is Bryce Dallas Howard beacuse she really is a good star, she was with a great perfomance in the village, better than kristen dunst in spiderman 3, in the lady in the water, manderlay, as you like it, the loss of a teardrop diamond,
and terminator salvation.
she will be great in a comedy, because if you see her in interviews she has a very good sense,
natalie portman is already a big star, amy adams is good but she has very easy characters and almost all of them are the same.
vote for Bryce Dallas Howard for poison avy in batman, she will be amazing yeah!!!
I'd also pick Hathaway as the first choice. If there wasn't an age limit, I'd say Adams still has a shot to be the next Roberts. I'd like to say Knightley if only she'd appear in romantic comedies.
It's not about quality of acting; it's about typecasting into the Romantic Comedy genre. Hathaway has that more then any other actress on this list (while still a great actress with an impressive resume); a lot of the others are great actresses, but do only dramatic, indy, or fanboy work. Plus, it has to be a romantic comedy that women of all ages enjoy. Hathaway has A Devil Wear's Prada. Sure, it's because of Streep more then her, but that's a huge step.
What she can't do, is continue to make awful chick flicks which only teenagers and women in their young 20's like; like Bride Wars and Kate Hudson territory.
In fact, all of these women have to break out of the female teen/young 20 demographic (which Roberts did immediately, despite starting so young), most of them haven't. If they do, it has to be for romantic comedies, not dramas. Hathaway seems the strongest to do that. McAdams is stuck there. So is Stewart, although she hasn't proved her acting ability yet neither.
@Tazmaniac: When those actresses get a mainstream romantic comedy, with a lot of marketing and hype, then we could possibly vote for them over Hathaway. This isn't about who's the best actress, but who's got the shot to be the best Robert's, which happens to be big high marketed campaign films. I like the actresses you mentioned and their body of work; but we don't know anything about their star power while they're still making the little gems, not the big cash cows.
Bryce Dallas Howard is so great and she have a good career it will be cool to see her as poison avy in batman
and we know that she will be great in terminator, christian bale is crazy beacause bryce is so good actress gorgeous, and everything else.
vote for Bryce Dallas Howard for Poison avy in batman yeah!!!
or a comedy with natalie portman (they are bestfriends)
Definately Evan Rachel Wood. Whether you like her or not you have to admit she's got amazing access to her emotions, making her an outstanding acctress. She's gonna have one hell of a carreer.
RE: Natalie Portman's height…
Can I just point out that Jodie Foster is under 5'4", and yet can command the screen whenever she's on it. Despite being short, she's the one of the few actresses around who can 'open' a thriller: Panic Room, Flightplan, etc.
Height may be important, but a lack of it can definitely be overcome.
Of the list here, I think Keira Knightley has probably the best chance of becoming the next Julia Roberts, dubious distinction though that may be…
Ok. So it's clear that to most people the most likely to be the next "Julia Roberts" is Anne Hathaway. And I agree because, as a lot of people have already mentioned, it's about the combination of box office success, likeability and talent.
Sure there are other actresses more talented than Hathaway in this list.
Natalie Portman is one of them. And in my opinion one of the best. But she has been around for more years than any of the other actresses in the list and I feel she has already proven herself and chosen/found her "place" in the buisness (and it's not as a sort of "Julia Roberts").
I also think Keira Knightley is incredibly talented but she has to stop choosing roles in period pieces. She has to show more versatility.
Someonde mentioned that they would like to see Knightley in a romantic comedy role.. Well, she has been in Love Actually.
To me, it's hard to speak about newcomers in terms of their future success. One of my favourite in the list is Emily Blunt but I honestly can't make any predictions on her success to come whatsoever.
Amy Adams also seems a very good contender in terms of being the next "Julia Roberts", as you can't help but love her. Plus, she has 2 Oscar nominations, talent is definitely there. But Hathaway has had more box office success so far (or at least is more recognizeable than Adams).
First off may I congratulate and thank you for compiling a pretty interesting script.
I voted for Kristen Stewart. I will not pretend I didn't like the Twilight film because I did. But before you pass me off as another Twilight Devotee voting for our dear Bella consider this. Before ever picking up a copy of Twilight I saw Kristen Stewart in Into The Wild and absolutely fell in love with her mesmirising (albeit short) performance. However the real reason I voted was for her incredible turn in Speak. A film little have seen. She stunned me. Her performance was indepth, heart-breaking and truly inspiring. Her talent may be quickly dismissed for her role in the vampire scream fest that is Twilight but this actress has so much potential and for ONE incredible role I award her this vote. Not because she will be the next Julia Roberts….but because she deserves to be!
As far as box-office draw, I would have to say, Anne Hathaway hands down. I would put Keira second, but her period pieces sort off limits her BO.
Rosario, Rachel, Natalie, Michelle, Zooey, Evan and Emily are all very talented, but I don't think they'll be huge BO stars. Same for Ellen Page (not a huge fan). I would actually put a different Black-Latino actress on the list instead, Zoe Saldana, I mean I don't know if she's a good actress or not, but she seems to be in blockbuster movies. The first Pirates, Avatar and Star Trek.
I think Scarlett is kind of done. I don't see it at all for Hayden or Katherine.
I think out of the newer ones, Amanda Seyfried defintely has that likeability factor( I mean I like her and I don't know why), she's also set to star in A woman of No Importance with Annette Bening, So now she's worked with Meryl, Julianne Moore and now Bening.
I actually don't hate that Megan Fox is on your list ( I don't hate her, but I just don't get how she gets all these roles based on her Transformers performance). I could see her movies making a lot of money at the BO.
So I would rank
Anne Hathaway
Keira Knightley
Amanda Seyfried
Megan Fox
If we are talking strictly, Box Office returns: than, I'm sorry to say, Kristen Stewart is the next big box office Queen. Out of every actress mentioned, she was the only one to have a blockbuster film in 2008. Guess what? She will also have a blockbuster film this year: New Moon. As long as Twilight lasts, conceivably for the next 5-6 years, Stewart will continually be involved as a star in a blockbuster.
While Keira Knightly has certainly been in three gigantic films (Pirates anyone?), she has yet to really headline a big film.
Anne Hathaway is my favorite from this list. She can do blockbuster (Prada) and she can do Academy Award nominated (Rachel). She has staying power to + even males like her.
Actually Quake82
Amanda Seyfried was in Mamma Mia and I think that fared better than Twilight WW
Rosario Dawson was in Eagle Eye which also grossed over 100m.
Yeah I forgot about Kristen.
@Quake82: It's not about how much the movie makes, it's about how much the movie makes based on the name. Twilight didn't make money because of Kristen Stewart, it made money because it was Twilight. Julia Roberts films made more money because of Julia's involvement, like Will Smith now, her name sold tickets — lots of them.
I think, Natalie Portman is a BIG STAR, and she has ALL to be a great big star.
I guess the next biggest movie star didn't show up yet. These girls are ok (ones more than others), but it's not that easy…
A real movie star may sell tickets only by its name in the movie (if they are at least "watchable") and she even can make a movie to happen. Julia Roberts did it and I guess she is already able to do it (she has a new movie in 2009 to prove it). Angelina Jolie still does it (and she is still in low 30). Even with Mexicana and Taking Lives, they are very respected and loved by its public and by movie makers.
[Ok, not everybody loves Jolie, but who does it, really does it! Haters too. But even Changeling made over U$ 100mi worldwide, despite poor USA box-office results, and this was her worst result in years.]
Julia was world's sweetheart. There were others who applied for the job, but since Audrey Hepburn, it was actually an open slot. She was part of the reinvention of romantic comedies and she was the rigth person in the rigth moment and place. And she had the talent to get the job.
Jolie is probably the world's most famous woman by many reasons (maybe not always the rigth ones), a badass, and probably the first Oscar winner to become a real female action movie star. There were other Oscar winners and others female action movie stars, but not both and not with her power. Like her or not, she is original.
Both grow up in Hollywood, Julia with her brother and Jolie with her father, and they know how to play the game. I don't, but I guess it requires an original stuff, and I can't see that in any of the other 25 girls. They look like Cate Blanchet, Kate Winslet and others. Many of them may have a future but I guess it is not as a movie star.
As Julia became a star at 22 (Pretty Woman), and Jolie at 25 (Tomb Raider), I guess only Dakota Fanning still has a shot, but it is a very long one.
Let's start with this: Scarlett Johanson, Megan Fox, Katherine Heigl, Hayden Panettiere, Jessica Biel????? WTF man, are you serious? Neither of them can act!
Keira Knighley is overrated just like PotC, but a least has more talent than the ones I mention above.
Between all those kids you mention Dakota is the most talented, lovable and the most capable of carring a movie by herself, but when I think of her, I think Drew Barrymore before Julia Roberts.
Talent, grace, great presence on screen, delightful to watch, charming, memorable… Someone that you can relate to; the only one that has all those cualities besides Julia Roberts is Anne Hathaway; that girl is awesome and she not only is the next Julia Roberts ( because just face it, she already is) BUT has all the potential to be the next Julie Andrews as well.
The order of value is Charisma, Charisma and some acting ability. That is IT, obviously Anne Hathaway hands down tops the list but her star power isn't half of Julia's, some of the younger actresses are unproven cause some people don't like children
Dakota Fanning, Breslin and Anne Sophia Robb, all have potential.
Also a desire to ferment and USE your charisma to power a role or movie is needed. Something which alot of 'snobbish' actresses on the list are unwilling to do and unless they find religion or have an epiphany they will continue to be just great (Portman, Leigh, Stewart) not actresses you love to hate but love to watch anyway. (Julia Roberts).
I think Hayden Panetiere (acting ability unproven)
Emma Stone and
Vanessa Hudgens (unproven) have the best chances.
p.s GREAT LIST!!!!
@Fab: Changeling, despite the hype, made less WORLDWIDE than Clint's other recent notables – Mystic River, Million Dollar Baby, Gran Torino – did in the US alone, which would suggest that Ms. Jolie isn't the box office draw some people suggest. Mighty Heart was well-received but ignored, whilst Beowulf barely scraped $80m in the US on a $150m budget . She can definitely help sell action flicks – Tomb Raider, Wanted, Mr & Mrs Smith – but the BO evidence has yet to show the paying public are interested in an "Angelina Jolie" film.
natalie portman should be in this list… SHE IS ALREADY A STAR!!!!!!!!!!
she should be leveled with this starlets!!!!!
but my vote is KRISTEN STEWART!!!!!!!!! she is an amazing actress… young, passionate, georgous and honest!!
I don't think the next Julia Roberts has appeared yet (the way that Hollywood's demand for good roles for women has been shrinking, I don't think we will ever have another) but I'll just make these guesses.
Most Likely: Dakota Fanning and Abigail Breslin. They're young, they command good roles and people like them. Plus they're talented and they should continue to draw for quite some them.
Least Likely: Megan Fox. She is basically Jessica Alba but a lot less talented. She can't act and she's never commanded a lead but she's always in the news. And despite Alba's beauty and the fact that she's always in the news, most of her lead roles flop. Expect Jennifer's Body to fail (not only because of her lack of talent but also because horror comedy hasn't sold since the 1980's) and the rest of her opportunities to dry up because of the pure and simple fact that beauty alone doesn't sell tickets.
Brad, while I am aware you mentioned Taraji initially, I'm kind of disappointed that only one woman of colour was on this list. Rosario Dawson is talented and beautiful but she's not the only Black woman or Black Latina who has the potential to be huge? What about Meagan Good? Variety magazine called her scene-stealing.
Jurnee Smollett is a great actress too.
In regards to the list, I think Anne Hathaway is the #1 box office draw of young females today. I hated Bride Wars – it was awful but I knew I had to see it because it had Anne in it.
She has that warmth and charm that many young actresses lack.
KRISTEN STEWART, she has a lot of talent.
and yes she hates the media, but she recognise that now take a role is more easy than before so "isn't a fight anymore"
I'm shocked so many people think Natalie Portman is a talented actress. Beautiful? You betcha. Good head on her shoulders? Sure. But "talented?" She gives line readings like a mannequin. You could cast a piece of cedar in her roles and it would have more depth and nuance.
The next big thing/next Julia Roberts award definitely seems to be leaning in Anne Hathaway's direction, but if we're just going personal preference, there are actually two Latina actresses I'd like to see make it big: Melonie Diaz (A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints, Be Kind Rewind) or America Ferrera.
aulelia- I don't see people going to the movies based on Meagan Good's name alone or Jurnee. I personally think Jurnee overacts and Meagan is always the the cute Black girl in shitty horror movies. When Hollywood starts giving, Black, Asian and Latino women better roles then maybe more would be on his list. It's not Brad's fault, it's hollywood.
Rosario is probably more likely than any young woman of color at this point and maybe Zoe Saldana since she's getting more mainstream roles. We'll see how big Frieda Pinto gets. I would say Beyonce, but I don't consider her an actress so she doesn't count.
I don't think people are understanding the question.
It's not a question of talent Julia Roberts is no Meryl Streep and Will Smith is no Daniel Day Lewis. I think Brad made it clear, The next big female movie star iis someone who can bring in the box office number based on their NAME and as of now I say Anne Hathaway. I don't think she's as talented as Emily Blunt or Kate Winslet, but she's a decent actress and I think a lot of people will see her movies based on her name alone. Probably Amy Adams too ( even though IMO, she plays the same type of character in every movie).
Wow…do I ever agree about Portman. Her performance in The Other Boleyn Girl, just for example…embarrassing! She was pushing so hard for that "great" performance it became laughable. If you don't agree, watch Anne Of A Thousand days and see how effortless Bujold was in the same role.
Portman can cry real well. But, there's a lot more to acting then crying, you know?
Amy Adams needs to get a new gig…tired of her sweet naive thing, and she was too old for the role in Enchanted…it bugged me to no end. A 30 something year old woman acting like a 14 year old? Ugh. And if she was from some Fairy tale land…she would have been married long ago.
I agree that Rosario Dawson is out front of the other of color actresses. They will be pushing Freida Pinto, but, that girl looks like a limp noodle.
How about Danielle Panabaker, she was great in "Mr. Brooks" and she scored a recent hit with "Friday the !3th". Her star meter went up to 27 and she is only 21 and got her bachelors in English at UCLA at age 19. She looks like she has movie star written all over her. We should also put Eva Mendes name in the discussion, as well.
Honestly, there won't be another Julia Roberts for a while; the romantic comedy has little-to-no credibility nowadays. However, if (500) Days of Summer is a hit, it could pave the way for the lovely Zooey Deschanel to have a shot at the throne
KRISTEN STEWART – All I am going to say Is forget about Twilight Watch The Cake Eaters and then tell me what do you think about her acting . I just cant Believe that this Girl is only 18 .
Emma Watson – she is a household name after Harry Potter, but has some serious chops as an actress
@beautifulm:
Thanks for your interesting reply. I should mention that I'm not slagging off Brad. I'm just saying I am disappointed there is not more ethnic diversity on the list because there are more black actresses than Rosario (whom is fabulous in her own eyes).
It's easy to put the blame on Hollywood but film goers have to also take the blame,
The top are definitely Evan Rachel Wood, Ellen Page, and Kristen Stewart. These three are the best out there. They're not suck ups or trying to be something that they're not.
Really? Kristen Stewart?
Ugh all that awfulness that is twighlight makes me want to vom, not spend money on her.
Kirsten Dunst
Bryce Dallas Howard is so simple to understand Bryce Dallas Howard
and she willl be great as poison avy in batman!!1
Ooh, AMERICA FERRERA would be a great choice, esp. for a woman of color! She's talented and beautiful and professional, but more to the point, she's charming and exudes warmth and likability, which as many have pointed out really has more to do with the Julia Roberts factor than sheer talent alone.
I agree that Evan Rachel Wood, Ellen Page and Kristen Stewart are all very fine actresses, but I think because of their off-screen personalities (which are sort of the opposite of warmth and likability- they seem cold, distant, and uninterested in PR) they will certainly rise to great heights and become very respected actresses, but not necessarily in the "America's Sweetheart" vein. But I'm sure that's okay with all three of them, as I highly doubt any of them would want that title anyway. I think they want to be seen as "artistes" and not movie stars.
Bryce Dallas Howard, terminator salvation definately is gone to be in the box office
Nice to see some Kirsten Dunst love. People always dog her but I think she's waaay more talented than like Portman or Johansson, who always get so much attention but are way overrated in my opinion. I'd love to see KD be the next big thing but unfortunately I doubt it will happen, she always gets work but she has too many haters out there to be huge.
@aulelia yes there are other Black actresses, but what other Young Black actress or woman of color, would get a lot of people to the movies based on name alone??? That is the question, not who is the most talented. The two you suggested Megan and Jurnee, um no. So who would you suggest???? If the question was who is the most talented young actresses out there today, I would put a lot more women of color on the list. But that wasn't the question, there isn't even that many women of color that gets people to the movies now. Except Halle Berry or Eva Mendes (maybe).
People go see Will Smith because he's Will Smith or Tom Cruise because he's Tom Cruise or Julia Roberts because she's Julia Roberts. Do you honestly think Megan or Jurnee could open a 100 million plus film based on their names?
From that list I think the best are: Bryce Dallas Howard, Michelle Williams, Keira Knightley, Evan Rachel Wood and Natalie Portman. I think Portman is big enough and has reached her peak. However I think that her peak will last through many years.
She didn't make it to your list, but I'm still hoping that Eva Green makes it big. She is extremely beautiful and talented. However it seems she's heading towards more art-house and obscure movies…
Um, we already have the next Julia Roberts. Her name is Cameron Diaz.
@Emily: Good joke, I needed that.
C'mon! Where are the Aussies on this list?
It may be a bit early to tell, but I think Mia Wasikowska could just be a big star in the future. Tim Burton must think so to cast her as the newest Alice in Wonderland. I'm looking forward to seeing her performance :)
It looks like your poll has been infiltrated by crazy Twilight fans. Now we will never know who would have really won the poll. They will vote for Kristen Stewart no matter what the question is. I'm disappointed to see her on this list on the first place. She is missing most of the qualifications to be the next Big Female Star: Acting ability, personality, charisma, screen presence, and, perhaps most importantly, desire to be successful. In fact, she is sort of the anti-Julia Roberts…. and I think she likes it that way.
Anne Hathaway is clearly the most obvious choice, but I have my eye on Emily Blunt and Anna Kendrick as well. And Amy Adams is already well on her way. She might be the closest we have to a Julia Roberts type at present.
I think the next Julia Roberts hasn't been discovered yet. No one on this list can pull, what is now known as "A Will Smith," aka over 100 mil. There is plenty of talent within this list but the problem is, not one of them appeals to the MASSES.
is right bryce dallas howard for batman as poison avy
Bryce Dallas Howard is so beatiful, and definately for poison ivy in batman and yes terminator salvation is going to be in the box office
Bryce Dallas Howard for poison ivy and with terminator salvation and mary queen of scotts she is going to be in the box office
and anna sphia robb is going to be a great actress
My first choice would be Evan Rachel Wood, cause she’s amazing in all the roles that she does, she just have to start doing more popular movies so people can know her better.
In second I think Kristen Stewart is also great, even though she doesn’t smile a lot I think she’s very carismatic (when she wants to) but everyone would go a little nuts with all that press talking about them (even Julia Roberts hate the journalists herself), but what is being judge is if she can stand up and I think she sure can.
And my second choice would be AnnaSophia Robb, she was amazing on Bridge To Terabithia, Sleepwalking and Have Dreams Will Travel, if she keeps going that way she can probably be even bigger cause she still really young.
And I would delete Emma Roberts cause even beeing her niece, she doesn’t have what it takes to be a success (only if she take acting classes), mabe in a far away future. She got time she’s young. And I would sure add Emma Watson, cause if she wants I klnow she’ll be huge.
Last question: Where's Veronica Mars?
Bryce Dallas Howard is the greatest of the greatest she will be great as poison ivy. and she is so beatiful maybe if she has a romantic comedy everyone will go see it!!!
Mia Wasikowska is gone be great in the new movie of tim burton, alice in wonderland
and yes Bryce Dallas Howard in batman as Poison ivy!!!!
yes Bryce Dallas Howard in batman as poison ivy it will be great and she is going to be the greatest actress in box office and if is not all the people are crazy.
how about camilla belle,mila kunis,olga kurylenko??
thats right Bryce Dallas Howard is great, in all her characters!!!
Bryce Dalllas Howard im going to see terminator salvation 20 times only for you!!!
Definitely Kristen Stewart. Not because I'm a Twilight crazy fan. In fact, i like Twilight, but the movie that really impacted me was SPEAK. She was young, and was a very difficult movie to act, because her character lived a horrible situation and, because of that, she don't speak much and she have to demostrate her feelings in her face…Excellent movie.
I'm looking forward to see The Cake Eaters. I heard that her interpretation is awesome!
Sorry if i have any spelling/grammatical mistake. I'm from Argentina, and here we speak in Spanish.
Definitely Ellen Page, she proved that she can be really successful with playing a lead role,whcih people like Amy Adams and Emily Blunt seem to have trouble doing well. Ellen Page is also extremely versitile. She could play almost anything and anyone.
There are so many great actresses on the list, but my favorite and my choice still go to Anne Hathaway. She has been called the next Julia Roberts for several years, and she keeps prooving that she deserves it. Someone has even metioned that she might be next Julie Andrews. I think 2008 was a great year for her. She was funny in Get Smart (box office sucess), she was totally awesome in Rachel Getting Married (really great acting). Just like Shirley MacLaine said in oscar, Anne is an amazing example for every young actress in this business, because she is not afraid to show both her dark and bright side (ps: love her performance with Hugh in oscar, very talented). She has the beautiful look, charming and cute personality and is very down-to-earth. She is talented as she can act, can sing, can do comedies, can hit the box office. I just love her and she is very popular here in Taiwan. Hope that she can choose her roles carefully. It is very very important for her!
@MichelleK:
No, they don't have to "play the game". Just because they're actors doesn't me they have to be sell out. Because they're public faces doesn't mean they belong to the fans, the paparazi or journalist on anyone. Yes their job is a bit more colorful than most and makes people dream but it's still a job. Yes they have to have a passion for it for them to be the best but it STILL doesn't give anyone the right to stalk them and takes pictures right up their faces every corner they turn, or intrude their private life. And it doesn't make them dolls, so no, they don't have to play that game. They acted, their job is done. The rest is their life!!
Kristen Stewart is a nice girl, no doubt about that. However, she is awkward to watch sometimes in films and interviews – like she isn't yet comfortable in her skin.
My vote is on Amanda Seyfried. This young woman is nice to watch and she can play a variety of roles. She can be the ditzy blonde in Mean Girls and she can be the taken-for-granted daughter in a polygamist family on HBO's show Big Love, the young and energetic woman happily in love in Mamma Mia, or the girl you love to hate in Chloe.
The woman on this list that I don't think should even be considered is Hayden. I'm sorry but that girl can't act.
It HAS to be Zooey Deschanel!
I keep hearing about all this talent K. Stewart has?! Her performance was so poor in Twilight. She hit one note the entire movie. Staring slack-jawed at Edward. She hardly ever smiled in the movie! In the books, Bella was so excited around Edward! Heck, I'd smile.
I went with Stewart because I think she has talent, but her month might do her in, she reminds me of a young Angelina Jolie, not sure which way to go, I think she should be advised by her caring adults and not listen to p/r folks that don't care for her. She needs to keep her attitude in check, maybe if she pretends to like Robert P. as a true friend and loose that stoner boyfriend and Nikki Reed- she might be liked more, however, she is talented and needs to pick more classy roles, and definetly model after the more classy movie stars, she would make a great Audrey Hepburn if she is guided well. I also like Ellen Page, she is awesome
I like Zooey Deschanel, even she's 29. I can't imagine her as a Big Female Movie Star. It has to be a more comercial woman, Deschanel it's a great actress, but she takes her roles carefully, she makes independents movies better als comercial, but Yes Man was amazing.
anne hathaway – next julia
ellen page – next meryl
amanda seyfried – SJP (its the musical)
rachel mcadams – shes in her own catagory, she does indie flicks and by no means has any other woman done so and gained the same quantity of attention as she has already.
where's Kristen Bell, she's one of the very few young actresses out there that can act same with Emma Stone
kristen stewart is overrated.
THIS GIRL IS THE NEXT BIG THING (i think): MICHELLE PAGE
shes hot and talented. check her out.
Tidalwave – I stand by my statements. Play the game. It's a business…and actors need to behave as if they are a part of that business…promoting happily, looking good and not creating scandal…being professional…otherwise, the folks with the money will go hire someone who does. Julia Roberts knew this. That's why she was Julia.
It has nothing what so ever to do with paparazzi or posing for pictures on their own time, in fact that is a terrible idea. it has to do with smiling and answering questions when you are promoting a film that has a lot of people's asses on the line.
I know it must get old, but, the actors are the faces to the public and everyone who works hard on a film must count on them to help sell the film. The actors have the double duty of delivering the art, and delivering on the business end as well. Some of these young ones need to drop the attitude and learn that….or they will be escorted out of town…believe me. Youth is hard, and God knows it is even harder in this business. You have to be really focused.
I'll say again…if Stewart and Wood can get with the program…they could both be classics. Also, Abbie Cornish and Rachel McAdams if they decide to be. Hathaway is already a real show person. She's not going anywhere.
And to the person who said Camilla Belle…bless you you poor dear…you must be deaf.
Kristen Stewart on the list is an anomaly brought to you by Twilight fans. She's also not the right look. Neither is Keira Knightley. Anne Hathaway comes close, but is too old. Ellen Page, like Scarlet Johannson, has a mellow blandness to her performances that doesn't brighten anyones day. Dakota Fanning is amazing, but will more likely be the next Kate Winslet/Meryl Streep… if she doesn't win an Oscar before 25, get bored with acting, and quit to start a family.
I think if any of these women have the right combination (between 18-25, bright cheerful face, upward mobility as an actress), its Amanda Seyfried. I personally don't think Seyfried has the "it" factor, otherwise she would've upstaged LiLo in Mean Girls.
To be honest, looking back before Julia R., there wasn't really anyone before her and if there's anyone after her, there won't be any polls: we'll just know it!
i have to say Kristen Stewart.
Even if I hate her for being in Twilight (to me, that movie suck!), i still love her for being in movies like The Yellow Handkerchief, Into the Wild, The Safety of Objects, Speak, etc.
And she has good upcoming movies, so… I pick her
I say Kristen for Into the wild and SPeak :) She's amazing actress
I hope michelle williams becomes big, she is the best actress out of all of them.
You left out Lindsay Lohan?! Are you nuts?!
Did you even see 'The Parent Trap' she played twice different characters talking to one another for christsakes – next time do your homework.
Brad to E-Money: Now this is a classic Internet comment. Illogical and grammatically incorrect. Gotta love it.
I love that every single one is caucasian. Rosario Dawson is the only one you could consider ethnic but in terms of movie roles she might as well be white. She will get to play those roles….. Probably not the fault of the list maker. More a problem with hollywood. It boring at this point…..
I love Kristen, and Dakota is a wonderful actress and she may in fact become the next star.
but i had to give my vote to Evan Rachel Wood.
She has the ability to play any role handed to her. And you didn't mention her remarkable role in Across the Universe. She is spectacular. She can invoke feelings across the screen.
She has a vast array of skills. I just think people better start looking out for her. She may be preoccupied, but shes 21. let her be preoccupied with a guy. She does as she wishes. Granted, so do the other 2 I mentioned, but they really haven't showcased their skills as well as Wood has.
Hatthaway is alright, but I really think her acting is overstated as great.
I have to mention Stewart's work in Speak. It was amazing.
All in all, polls like this are kind of pointless. I don't think anyone can top Roberts. and as you can tell, alot of viewers would rather down actresses than talk up their good work. We're all hard critics these days.
@PDaisy:
she has done other work you know.
'speak' was amazing, 'the yellow handkerchief' is great and she has countless more under her belt. Just because you saw her in ONE movie and didnt care for her doesnt mean you have to down her skills. This is about who you think IS going to be the next Roberts. Not who ISN'T.
Freida Pinto is on fire right now and with her looks, charm, ear-to-ear smile, bubbliness, etc, she could very well turn out to be the next Julia. Her acting chops haven't exactly been proven 100 percent yet, having only done one movie, but she's got all the other qualities which are almost more important than acting (unfortunately)- looks, persona, etc. She's one to watch.
I think Evan Rachel Wood is just an okay actress- not at all comparable to Streep. Wasn't really moved by her perfs in The Wrestler or Across the Universe. Also, personality is important here- again, maybe even more important than talent, and unfortunately her off-screen shenanigans and overall sense of having a sour personality are points against her.
I agree that Portman, Johansson, Knightley are overrated. At this point they are all also pretty much where they are going to be- not really the "next big things" cuz they are not new.
I think Hayden P. will continue to work and be a celebrity, and she definitely has the bubbliness and appeal, but she won't quite reach the height of a Julia.
I can't watch "Heroes" for the exact reason you listed: Jailbait. But I saw Hayden long before this in "The Ice Princess", and she has the potential to make the cut. But my top on the list would be Dakota by far. She has acting talent that I've not seen duplicated at all in pretty much anyone else on the list. And you've got to be out of your mind to think that the "Twilight" mystique doesn't have an effect on Stewart's placement on the list. Her acting ability is a long way down the list.
You have got to be kidding. Why is Kristen Stewart coming first!!!!
Everyone knows shes up there only because of the Twilight fans (I am one of them by the way) but she is not going to be the next big movie star
Ellen Page, Dakota Fanning or Rosiao Dawson on the other hand is
I'd be interested to see the percentages recalculated without Kristen Stewart in the mix.
Kristen Stewart !
of course :D !
Anne Hathaway is amazing and so pretty, i love her!!
Also Kristen Stewart, Ellen Page and Dakota Fanning, but they are younger, anyway they are excellent and beautiful girls.
I gave my vote to Amanda Seyfried because she has alot of talent and I've seen her in alot of small roles, and she's taken the screen. I can see her being a big star.
Kristen Stewart has gotten alot of votes because of Twilight, which was a good movie, sure, but I'd say its a safe bet to say people mostly love her due to the obsession around it. Its been like an overwhelming trend lately. I do think she'll get a better chance for more roles now though, especially since I think Adventureland looks great.
I have some cult favorites from this list that I've been following in movies for awhile, including Zooey, Scarlett, Ellen, Mary Elizabeth, and Abigail. As for Evan Rachel, I'm not sure she's going to be anything 'big' but I saw more acting abilities from her in the movie "Thirteen" then I might have ever seen in alot of these girls. I really like Anne Hathaway though, and I can see her being huge. One I think should be one here, but dosen't have too much of a chance anymore is Kristen Bell, Now SHE can act.
kristen stewart is definitely the one. she is very talented and she is unique. unlike so may young actress today who are so phony.
I vote for Kristen Stewart! … she's awesome (L)
@Adriano: Of all the stuff people have written I think only you have gotten it right, "I think what Brad wanted to say when he asked for “the next Julia Roberts” was simply: who’s the next actress with REAL box-office power? An actress who can carry a movie herself, a woman who has a winning combination of talent, charisma and a huge fan base?" Everyone who has been "voting" for a favorite actress, the only vote that counts is the one you do with your wallet when you go to see films because this woman is in it. Personally I don't see any one of these women being able to completely command the hearts and wallets of the viewing public. And some of them are so utterly lack charm that it is virtually impossible, talent not withstanding. (I'm looking at you Kristen Stewart.) But when it happens I think (hope) it will be a woman of color: black, latina, and/or a mix thereof. But maybe not. It will definitely be the product of talent, charm, cunning and luck, with an emphasis on the last two.
Kristen Stewart! Kristen Stewart! Kristen Stewart!!
vanessa hudgens is really gud and has gd acting skills i think she would have made a better bella in twilight aswell
The problem is that although there are some beautiful women on the list, none of them will compare to Julia Roberts – who could be funny as well as tragic, vivacious as well as sad, and when she was vivacious she was SO MUCH that! She had the classic MOVIE STAR quality, and I don't see that in the above, though most of them have done good work or show promise. But how often does a Julia Roberts appear? Really? How many Katherine Hepburns have we had? Etc.
So what about some obvious but forgotten choices?
America Ferrera
Kirsten Dunst
Jessica Alba
Danielle Panabaker
Evangeline Lily or Blake Lively ? (TV actresses so it's a stretch… but then again that's how Williams and Heigl began.)
Allison Lohman
Emma Watson
Kristen Bell
Kate Hudson? (wildly popular but blahhh in everything other than "Almost Famous"!
… I loathe Alba as much as the next critic but she's pretty popular anyway and not that her movies have been Will Smith level BO but they have made more of a mark than poor stiff Jessica Beal. I also thing the gifted Evan Rachel Wood is the next Nicole Kidman. Admired for her obvious talent from a far but she's so icy and has such an unapproachable beauty that no one can really identify with her…
I think Rachel McAdams is PERFECTION. Too bad she does so few films. She's a delight to watch.
I'm just thanking God that nobody said Hilary Duff! haha
I think i sound be Katie Holmes because is a really good actress.
Can all you Twilight fans PLEASE stop spamming this poll?! There is NO REASON for Kristen Stewart to be #1 in this poll, let alone #1 by far. Seriously. When compared with the likes of Anne Hathaway, Natalie Portman, and Keira Knightly (among others on this list), Stewart is a complete hack of an actress. Maybe this will change in the future when she tackles more mature roles, but right now, she's little more than the beneficiary of a popular niche movie franchise, and face it; she's not all that good in it, either. And could someone please tell her that her insistence on the 'mama's little badass' face in every picture taken of her is getting old? SMILE, girl!
This is a great list and you can tell that you really did your research because you have included some real up-an-coming stars that are definitely pre-tabloid like Mary Elizabeth Winstead. She has the total package and is likely the closet thing to "Julia Roberts" on this list.
BRIANA EVIGAN
even thought she had only once major role in a dance movie and did one epizode of Fear Itself…this girl has more talent than anyone else out there right now. her acting is pretty pretty good! she is definitely at least hundred times better than jessica alba, hayde panettiere (or whatever is her name spelled like) or megan fox. she got a bright future! she had the potential to be the next jula roberts… shes just a new puppy on the scene and needs the big breakout role to show everyone what she got.
i vote for her!!!!
@Patricia: Thank you for your comment. It'd be pretty nice to see a non-caucasian girl become the next huge movie star. Maybe Freida Pinto?… (I know, too soon, too soon)
As many people said, I don't think any of these actresses is "the next Julia Roberts" (yet). There are loads of talent on this list, but we all know that talent alone does not mean box-office success.
Maybe Reese Witherspoon will claim Julia's crown? She was on her way: several hit movies, a large fan base, charisma, talent and an Oscar on her bag. Maybe with the "Four Christmases" success, she'll be able to carry movies by herself again. Let's not forget that even Ms. Roberts had a string of failures during the mid-90s.
@Adriano: Reese was my first guess as to the greatest liklihood earlier in my comments too. She is sure trying as hard as she can with convienient cameras following her wherever she goes and some Disney butt kissing. But that's the business. Yes? Yet somehow I think she's missed the boat, peaked too soon and then made some poor choices afterwards. I know Julia started out slow and made some missteps too and both have huge fan bases. But I don't get the right vibe off of Ms. Witherspoon. Could you see her , for instance, in an esemble cast with Clooney and Pitt? I think she would drown. Anyway, I am as likely to be wrong as to be right. As has said elsewhere on this site, the surprises are part of the enjoyment.
I think the next big star will definately be made in television – not movies – a high profile show with general appeal, think Veronica Mars for the masses, will be required. And as such few of these will fit the unless they 'take a step back'. These days shows run almost simultaneously in the whole world, which makes much need instant exposure possible. Even more so that film premieres. Hayden Panetierre won't make it since she's way too limited in range, and like Megan Fox probably limited to being served as a 'hot dish'. Another possible option that nobody has mentioned is Summer Glau, who easily is more talented than most on that list and has a physical ability that would lend her well to even a 'female action star' casting, which is a quality worth a few bucks. What remains is finding out is who casual Glaus is, since her roles are usually extremes.
@JK: I agree that the next big star will come from television. Good choice with Summer Glau. I could also see someone like Cobie Smulders from HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER making waves on the big screen (she's 27). I always thought Jennifer Love Hewitt or Sarah Michelle Geller would make it into the big time (they were the only reason I went to see I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER and CAN'T HARDLY WAIT), but oh well…Evangeline Lilly from LOST would also be a good choice, although she will turn 30 in August, so her time has pretty much run out.
I was always very annoyed with the hoopla surrounding Dakota Fanning…then I saw PUSH. She was just AWESOME in that movie. Not the most memorable movie in the world, but she was cool and funny…really made the most out of her role. I really look forward to seeing what she has in store for what is shaping to be a very long career.
Also, just as a FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION label, I saw serious potential in the most recent "BOND GIRLS" from CASINO ROYALE (Eva Green), and QUANTUM OF SOLACE (Gemma Arterton as Miss Strawberry Fields). While both aren't well known right now, they both have such a natural charisma, and the right role is out there to help both actresses achieve breakthrough status.
What about Leighton Meester from GOSSIP GIRL? I see some potential as a box-office draw, especially since she has quite a following from that show.
Emma Stone from SUPERBAD? She has tons of charisma (she was very charming in THE ROCKER and THE HOUSE BUNNY). She has ZOMBIELAND and possibly SUCKERPUNCH coming up which could catapult her star!
Speaking of ZOMBIELAND, what about MILA KUNIS? She has a cult following from THAT 70's SHOW, FAMILY GUY, and FORGETTING SARAH MARSHALL. Now she just needs that one role that shows her chops, and ZOMBIELAND might be it, if it is as good as it sounds on paper!
Kristen Stewart will never be a big box office draw!!
As much as she is doing right now, people will never flock to the theater to see someone who comes off as a cold bitch. She has to learn that while the media is intrusive and annoying, it's necessary for her to keep the public liking her, which is something she has been failing at miserably!
I'm am extremely excited to see that someone else on the planet is aware of and loves Rebecca Hall!!
Thank you, thank you, thank you for including her!!!
I also think she was severly underrated in VCB and she was delightfully adorable in a small brit flick starring a bit younger James McAvoy called Starter for 10. I haven't had a chance to see Frost/Nixon for myself yet, but I heard her character in that was completely unecessary, unfortunately.
I think Anne Hathaway is a bit of a given. She is that right height and right look, and has the ability to charm the pants off just about any audieence. I'd like to take this opportunity to say I believe she was GROSSLY underrated in Brokeback Mountain. Even though it was a small part, I thought she was amazing!! Her as the White Queen sould really be something.
My other interesting pick is Dakota Fanning. I think there's no doubt that she will be around for quite sometime, I just hope she can successfully make the transition from child/teen star to adult. She is clearly one of the most talented actresses on this list.
I just read some of the other posts and I'd like to add:
Kirsten Dundst is box office poison. Her acting ability platued at age 12 or however old she was when she made Interview With a Vampire. I don't see even the slightest possibility of her coming back. I really wish she'd retire and give good actresses a chance!!
Also, MILA KUNIS!!!
Why is she not on the list? She is the reason Forgetting Sarah Marshall was so good. Sure, she was entirely miscast in Max Payne, but she really has quite a lot of potential, and she has that charm! Love her.
Also, also: Whoever put Vanessa Hudgens, you should be ashamed of yourself!
lindsay lohan is a great actress that actually spices things up.she has labor pains which looks good.i think people should stop hating on her because she has had 2 dui's.people make mistakes DAMN IT!she SHOULD be on this list.HILARY DUFF SHOULD TOO.All she needs is a big budget film and she is pretty much good.
I definitely don't think that Kristen Stewart is the next big female star. She was okay in Twilight.. okay at best. She's just getting started.. I don't think she'll be anything big though.
As for those who will.. Zooey Deschanel has had some great roles in some great films over the years and I really think this is her year, espcially with 500 Days of Summer coming out in July and her role in Yes Man. She's definitely had some great roles over the years and she can sing and make great music as well.
I also like Emily Blunt. She was great in Wind Chill and I look forward to seeing her in The Great Buck Howard as well as The Young Victoria. She's got a lot of great roles lined up for the next few years.
Anne Hathaway it's almost too obvious, but Natalie Portman and Keira Knightly are excelent as well. and I jut HAVE to say this Leighton Meester is not so bad either and if Emma Watson makes the right choises the girl could give them all a run for their money (THAT GIRL IS GOING PLACES)
It's interesting that 3 of these ladies has won the ShoWest Female Star of the Year award in recent years:
2009- Rachel McAdams (just announced!)
2008- Anne Hathaway
2006 – Natalie Portman
I don't think that any actress is going to get a string of hits like Julia Roberts did in the 90s.
Movies are marketed differently now, as audiences go to see movies based on story and web-campaign marketing, not on the stars. (unless Will Smith is the star, and even then Seven Pounds didn't work.) Tom Hanks, Tom Cruise, Harrison Ford, etc., had a good string for over a decade, but they've started to waver a bit as well. Now movies like Taken with Liam Neeson (great actor who avoids cheesy fare) sneak up on people because of good word of mouth and ubiquitous advertising.
A few ideas I have after reading many posts -
Anne Hathaway seems like an obvious choice, but two things being said are annoying me. People are saying she's "already there". That certainly is not true, because if it were, Bride Wars wouldn't have tanked the way it did. Also, even though it was an indie, if she was "already there" more people would have seen Rachel Getting Married – especially after all the praise it (and more importantly, she) received. The other thing – Why are people comparing her to Julie Andrews? That hardly makes sense to me. Julie Andrews, though very well-respected, and highly talented in all fields, is known for her legacy in musicals – the Sound of Music and Mary Poppins. I don't see why people are comparing them to each other.
Secondly, I don't see why more people aren't talking about Rachel McAdams. In '04 and '05 she WAS the it-girl. Mean Girls (I know that was a Lohan film, but I think McAdam's performance was the most enjoyable by far), The Notebook, Wedding Crashers. I even think that most people who saw Red Eye only went because she was in it (Cillian Murphy is barely a household name in the states). If she didn't take a break after that string of films, I believe she would already be Julia Roberts. She's very likeable, gorgeous, and quite talented.
I don't understand why so many people are rooting for for Page, Stewart, and Wood for the position. Though they are all very talented (particularly Wood), they will never be America's Sweethearts – as they've made it quite apparent that they don't want to be.
Lastly, there are two girls I'm quite surprised are not on the list – Kristen Bell and Mila Kunis. Kristen Bell is slowly becoming a household name and Mila is just great. Both are stunning and were fabulous in Forgetting Sarah Marshall. They might not be "there" yet, but they most certainly have a better chance than Hayden, Biel, Heigl, and Fox.
Side note – Why not Kate Hudson? I realize that she's probably blown her chances, but she's still under 30 and has a better chance than at least a quarter of the ladies on this list.
my vote anne hathaway gary marshall who directed pretty woman said she's the next julia roberts. and the letterman factor can't be something that is left unsaid. arguably his best guest
Well Zooey Deschanel is my choice Nr1. She can sing, she can act and shes cute and beautiful. And shes not star-sick or arrogant.
Anne Hathaway seems to be the most plausible choice at the moment but I have my doubts simply because actressess aren't really prized anymore(by the industry) as being as important as their male counterparts(I would argue that they barely were when Roberts became a star as by the end of the 1980s no actress, even Meryl Streep, made the top 10 draws of the decade).
Differences in acting ability aside there's nothing really distinctive about any of the young actressess listed whereas Roberts landed in a pool, and partially suceeded, where distinction among her peers was prized(aside from skin colour Whoopi Goldberg was as completely different a popular actress as Roberts was to a Susan Sarandon)
To use TWILIGHT as an example the focus has mostly been on Pattinson as opposed to Stewart, or indeed think back to TITANIC where Leo was given the credit (and top billing) over Kate Winslet, despite it being technically her film from the character standpoint. Despite the successes of Mamma Mia and Sex And the City the movie last summer the problem of finding actressess who can reliably draw audiences the way Will Smith or, to an extent, Johnny Depp can will continue.
Well Zooey Deschanel is my choice Nr1. She can sing, she can act and shes cute and beautiful. And shes not star-sick or arrogant.
Ellen Page is the most talented young woman in Hollywood. She has already carried the movie Juno that received an oscar nomination and made $230m ww. Ellen starred in this movie at the age of 20. Page is so talented I'm sure she could read the baclk of a cereal box and you would want to know what happens next. I agree she needs to smile more but I saw her on Letterman and she was hilarious. So, I think she has a well developed sense of humor. As for short…it doesn`t matter. There is nothing sexier than having a six foot tall man reach down to his lover as she strains to meet his embrace. I think I just figured out why Hollywood romatic films suck…tall woman can`t submit to love.
Further on this list I would add Rachel McAdams who is very tallented and should be in more films. America Ferrera is another very tallented woman and should have been on this list. Emily Blunt is full of talent but needs a blockbuster. Natalie Portman is terrific and also will do very well. Anne Hathaway is very talented and is already a big star.
What I see as the leading quality with all these woman is that they are smart, very smart. I don't think they would want the Pretty Woman title. That is a guy thing like saying I`m dating a super model or an airline hostess. These woman want to be known for their acting talent not their face teeth hair or laugh as Julia Roberts name brings to mind.
Does anyone else feel this way…..
I voted for Anne Hathaway. There are other girls who have more star quality than some of these girls on the list. Here are some that were not on it.
Rose Byrne (30 in April '09)
Olivia Thirlby
Lizzy Caplan
Mae Whitman
Christina Ricci
Sophia Myles
Julia Stiles
Mika Boorem
Kate Bosworth
Anne Hathaway might be one to really consider, she has been on the rise and has some good roles coming up.
I vote for Saoirse Ronan. She was great in Atonement, and has some great roles coming up. The Lovely Bones with director Peter Jackson and she is filming The Way Back starring Colin Farell and Jim Sturguss, with director Peter Weir. Working on these movies, will surely get more people to recognize her. She is excellent with doing different accents also. Plus she is only 15.
Im sorry, i just dont see how Kristen Stewart could become the next Julia Roberts. She has been in twilight, and is only famous because twilight is, just that, twilight! It wasnt a particularily good movie, in my opinion, which was a HUGE let down because i am an enourmous fan of the books. I dont think shell make it very far, already her fan base is far smaller than numerous of her fellow twilighters, yet she had the main role. People simply dont want to watch people who seem to be depressed. Whether she hates the media or not is irrelevant, even in the photo you have displayed on this page she doesnt look even mildly pleased that she is a world wide household name and the star of a series that´ll make millions. Maybe she simply isnt ambicious enough ?
Until Hollywood starts treating it's actressess seriously again the next big female star will be no one.
Compared to Julia Roberts in her heyday the box-office numbers of Angelina Jolie and Anne Hathaway(the only actressess, Meryl Streep aside, considered 'reliable' box-office wise) don't compare. The fact that Roberts tried an Oscar-baity role (ERIN BROCKOVICH) and the film became her last huge success to date whilst Jolie and Hathaway's diversions into 'serious' acting have been ignored by the mass public speaks volumes.
Until we have a successful blockbuster which is targeted at EVERYONE (male and female) again which is headlined solely by a woman the question posed is a redundant one.
Where are Amanda Bynes or Brittany Snow? I think that both of them have a much higher shot than nearly HALF of the girls on this list.
Anna Paquin should definitely be on this list. She is still fairly young, already has an Oscar, and now she has a popular tv show that has garnered the respect of both viewers and critics. Her only downside is that she chooses very dark and serious movies. She has to be able to show her lighter side if she wants to be the next Julia.
Well Zooey Deschanel is my choice Nr1. She can sing, she can act and shes cute and beautiful. And shes not star-sick or arrogant.
Kristen Stewart
Nice article. Try AnnaLynne Mccord. She is a bit bitchy but after all Julia Roberts became America's sweetheart only after pretty woman.
I think Emma Watson and Hayden Panetierre (speaking of Hayden, what about Milo Ventimiglia for the Upcoming Actor category?) have been a huge hit, and we can't wait to see more from them!
Oh, oops! Leighton Meester, of course! So my bids are Emma Watson, Hayden Panetierre and Leighton Meester. As for Anne Hathaway (besides that awful scandal, sorry dear), she's a better pick for the categories of Actresses to Replace Audrey Hepburn, which of course, no one could.
P.S. Michelle Trachtenburg was so cute with Panetierre and Meester, I hope she does more stuff!
wow i cannot believe Kristen Stewart is winning. i think she's really pretty but just can not act. the same with zoey deschanel (though i agree that she was likeable in yes man, i hope that means she is getting better ^^). i will give both of them a chance though, hoping to see them in more!
anne hathaway i think will get better and better. i can not wait for her in alice in wonderland though the second princess diaries and bride wars was not her best.
racheal mcadams is great. i do wish she did more films. loved her in the notebook.
natalie portman, i loved her in garden state. i didn't even think Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium was that bad! (the commercial made me scared to watch it). i still need to watch the other bolyn girl though. i want to watch more from her.
emily blunt was great in devil wears prada! i want to watch her in her upcoming film young victoria which my friend wants to watch asap.
there is actually a few more actress that I believe should be on the list also.
Nikki Reed: She really hasn't been in that many movies but if she started acting more she could be some good competition.
Emma Watson: I know that people aren't gonna agree with me on this but I can see the potential in her. Let her get a few more movies other then HARRY POTTER under her belt and then she what happens.
Lindsey Lohan: Yea she might be in and out of rehab but I think that once she gets and finally STAYS cleaned up (if that will ever happen); She does have some talent, she's pretty, and she's still only like 25.
I'm sure theres more but that all I can think of right now.
Falconetti in The Passion of Joan of Arc, Jean Seberg in Bonjour Tristesse,
and Kim Stanley in The Goddess.
But they're dead.
take back my comment con kristen stewart i think shes pretty and after seeing her in the "new moon" trailer i think shes gona do way better acting in this one so k-stew is promising aswell as anne heatherway
When people want to know why, at the beginning of the 21st century, our national culture resembles that of Rome during the Fall, or Germany before the rise of Hitler, they can read all of this drivel and not have to wonder why.
Michelle Rodriguez aka Letty from Fast and Furious comes to mind.
With Avatar coming out later this year, she can proove she isn't just a one trick pony called Letty.
@Joan: If this poll was overrun by young males they would have voted for Megan Fox.
This poll is so prone to populist people and brand identity.
支持佐伊！！！
I think Zoe Saldana should be in the list…and Paula Patton too…
but my rank is :
Kristen Stewart
Keira Knightley
Natalie Portman
Paula Patton
Zoe Saldana
Amanda Seyfried
Selena Gomez
Vanessa Hudgens
Nobody in Britain knows who Selena Gomez is. As a result she wasn't eligible.
If Brits started asking Americans if they liked Ant & Dec, Americans wouldn't answer because nobody in America knows who Ant & Dec are.
Where is Mandy Moore in your list? I just think that she was wonderful in "A Walk to Remember", had a powerful turn is "Saved", and is trying to choose projects now more than ever after such bombs like "Because I Said So" and "License to Wed". I hope she's given a chance to shine in her upcoming projects. ;)