Where you've seen him before: "Billy Elliot" on the London stage
Breakout Role: "The Impossible"
Why: As one of the main performers in the film about a family trying to survive the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, Holland has to hold his own against such lauded luminaries as Ewan McGregor, Naomi Watts and Geraldine Chaplin. Early reviews say he more than succeeds, bringing to the film a gravitas that's well beyond his years and limited film experience. Likewise, there's already a buzz around him being nominated for an Oscar for the role. Up next is the ensemble drama "How I Live Now," opposite Saoirse Ronan and Sophie Ellis. 

- Dave Lewis