You Oughta Know: 9-Year-Old Oscar Nominee Quvenzhané Wallis
Quvenzhané Wallis, pronounced Kwe-VEN-zhah-nay, is a name you should become familiar with. She’s only the youngest actress to ever be nominated for an Academy Award. Astonishingly, that award is for Best Actress in a Leading Role (needless to say the most prestigious award for any actor).
Wallis earned her nod for her role as “Hushpuppy” in Michael Raisler’s indie fantasy-drama Beasts of the Southern Wild, an instant favorite that won awards at both Sundance and Cannes Film Festivals. ‘Beasts’ has since grossed over $11 million at the box office, won numerous awards and found its way on President Obama’s favorite movies of 2012 list.
The pint-size Louisiana native spoke with culture icons Robert Ebert and Oprah Winfrey about auditioning for Hushpuppy at the age of 5 and performing in the film at age 6. She recounts the interesting tale of how lying about her age actually got her the “fearless” role in the Benh Zeitlin-directed film.
The 85th annual Academy Awards ceremony will be held at Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre on February 24th. I can’t help but hope this naturally intelligent, lovely young talent takes home the statue.
Beasts of the Southern Wild Trailer
Roger Ebert Interview
Oprah Interview