The 13-year-old actress made her acting debut in the low-budget New Zealand film, �Whale Rider�. The film was hailed by critics and most highlighted the exceptional acting of Castle-Hughes, who played the title character. She made such an impression that the Academy nominated her for a Best Actress award, making her the youngest actress to even be nominated for a lead role.
Keisha Castle-Hughes was caught by surprise by the nomination. �My Mum came running into my room saying Keisha, you�ve just been nominated!. I was like, I thought I was still sleeping. I thought I�ll be happy in the morning,� she told New Zealand National Radio on Wednesday.
The �Whale Rider� made quite a splash with critics, when the endearing story of Paikea, a young girl that fights Maori tradition and her grandfather when her �tribe must contend with a female as their leader after her twin brother dies a childbirth, and she must struggle to prove herself.� Although the story centers on a Maori tribe�s battle with coming to terms with the past and present, the film carried a universal message that was well received by both critics and audiences.
However, Castle-Hughes faces some stiff competition for the Oscar. She goes up against the favorite, Charlize Theron, who recently won a Golden Globe for portrayal of serial killer Aileen Wuornos in Monster.
Castle-Hughes and Theron will also have
to contend with Diane Keaton (Something�s Gotta Give), Samantha Morton
(In America) and Naomi Watts (21 Grams).
.
Kandace Springs - Run Your Race
On the Blue: New Horizons Cruise Day 1: Marbin Gets the Fun Started
Hot In The City: Prog Band Tu-Ner Coming to Phoenix
Megadeth Announce North American Destroy All Enemies Tour
Asia Announce The Heat of The Moment Tour
blink-182 Lead Inaugural South Star Festival Lineup
Enter Shikari Announce New Companion Record 'Dancing On The Frontline'
Sammy Hagar To Receive Star On Hollywood Walk of Fame
Beatles Legend John Lennon's Lost Help! Guitar Discovered After 50 Years
Paul McCartney & Wings: One Hand Clapping 1974 Live Studio Sessions Available For The First Time