Samantha Barks Joins Hollywood in 'Les Miserables'

By Emma Koonse, Christian Post Reporter Monday, October 22, 2012

Broadway actress Samantha Barks has already earned praise for her role in the upcoming film "Les Miserables" this week.

The 22-year-old made the leap from Broadway to the big screen with her role as Eponine in the highly anticipated film.

Although "Les Mis" is not yet in theaters, Barks was named among six honorees that will receive a Hollywood Spotlight Award, reported Broadway.com. The award honors the most promising young film stars of the year.

The "Les Mis" newcomer will receive the award Monday during the 16th annual Hollywood Film Awards, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

"We are very excited that we will be able to recognize acting talents that are on their road to discovery and stardom," said Carlos de Abreu, Founder and Executive Director of the Hollywood Film Awards, in a statement.

Other honorees include rising stars Bella Heathcote and John Magaro from "Not Fade Away," Tom Holland of "The Impossible," and Ezra Miller from "The Perks of Being A Wallflower," among others.

The 2012 Hollywood Film Awards have also announced that it will honor Richard Gere with the Hollywood Career Achievement Award, and actor Bradley Cooper will receive the Hollywood Actor Award.

Barks got her first big break when she finished in the top three on the reality series "I'd Do Anything" where she competed for the role of Nancy in the play "Oliver!" Also, she appeared beside Nick Jonas in "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying."

Native to Laxey, on the Isle of Man, Barks attended St Ninian's High School in Douglas before moving to London to study at The Arts Educational Schools.

It will not be the first time Barks assumes the role as Eponine; she portrayed the character in the London production of "Les Miserables" at the Queen's Theatre last year.

The newest film adaptation of "Les Miserables" will also see Anne Hathaway, Russell Crowe, Hugh Jackman, and many more.

The movie-musical was supposed to be released earlier this year, but the release date was pushed to Dec. 25.