American actress Bryce Dallas Howard has been tipped to become a major star by critics in the US. And the pretty redhead has also made quite an impression here in Britain, after dazzling movie fans at the premiere of The Village.
The 23-year-old performer, whose father is Hollywood heavyweight Ron Howard, crossed the pond to promote her new movie. She has been roundly applauded for her portrayal of blind girl Ivy Wallace in the flick, and industry insiders say she is destined for big things. The supernatural thriller, which tells the story of a rural town besieged by evil creatures, is her first outing in a starring role.
Also present at the UK premiere was director M Night Shyamalan, who also brought us The Sixth Sense and Signs. The handsome filmmaker delighted the crowds in Leicester Square by going on a walkabout, signing autographs and chatting with fans.
Shyamalan spotted Bryce in a Broadway production of the Shakespeare play As You Like It. He immediately approached the young actress and, without so much as an audition, offered her her first leading role.
Handling her newfound fame may prove something of challenge for the Texan beauty. But her father, who was still in his teens when he landed the role as Richie Cunningham in Happy Days, is likely to have some good advice. And her close friends Natalie Portman and Jake Gyllenhaal likewise have plenty of experience with the pressures of stardom.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
