Abreakthrough role, also known as abreakout role,[1] is a term in thetheatre,film andtelevision industry to describe the performance of anactor or actress which contributed significantly to the development of their career and beginning of critical recognition. A breakthrough role is often a significant increase in importance in the actor's part, such as moving up from a minor character to one of the main cast or a "high impact" role in a film, play or show which has mainstream success and results in the actor's widespread recognition and popularity.[2] A breakthrough performance has also been defined as one which "attracts the attention of film critics, or receives rave reviews and is subsequently nominated for many majorawards".[3]
Lord Rohan inThe Man in Grey has been cited asJames Mason's breakthrough performance.[4] The television film adaptation ofGideon's Trumpet has been referenced asLane Smith's breakthrough role, despite lacking a theatrical release.[5] Similarly, theBBC seriesPennies from Heaven has been highlighted as the breakthrough ofBob Hoskins.[6]Brandon Lee's starring role inThe Crow has been cited as his breakout, though it was also his final film as he died of agunshot wound when ablank-firingprop gunaccidentally discharged a neglectedsquib load on the set of the film.[7][8]
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