Kat Dennings: Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist

Yet another example of how the right actors can elevate so-so material, Michael Cera and Kat Dennings were the forces that gave this indie-music fueled after-hours romp through New York City’s Lower East Side its juice.  Cera, of course, has already proven his bona fides with scene-stealing turns in Arrested Development, Juno and Superbad, but Dennings was still looking for that breakout role after a series of small parts in hits like The 40-Year-Old Virgin and The House Bunny.  She more than made her case for stardom with her smart, funny and touching performance as a wallflower who, over the course of one long night, learns to take center stage.  It doesn’t hurt that Dennings is a knockout, combining Jeneane Garofalo’s sarcastic streak with Kate Winslet’s striking features.  And even though Nick & Norah underwhelmed at the box office, it landed Dennings roles in several ’09 flicks and a spot on Hollywood’s It List.