Photo: Christian Witkin

3. Anna Kendrick, 24

Distinction: Her performance as George Clooney's naive colleague in Up in the Air (a role written with her in mind) was nominated for an Oscar. See her next in the comedies Scott Pilgrim vs. the World and I'm with Cancer.

What do you hope to accomplish over the next ten years? I know it's stupid, but I want to shoot a gun in a movie really bad. And I want to try caving.

Describe yourself in one word. Awkward.

If you weren't an actress, what would you be? A pastry chef.

Do you have a mantra? If I did, it would be "I'm from Maine." It reminds me to stay grounded.

You feel happiest when... I'm on a film set that feels intimate, supportive, and respectful. Up in the Air was like that. It was the best experience I've had.

Any regrets? Not growing tall enough to be a ballerina.

What has been your most surreal, "pinch-me-I'm-dreaming" moment so far? Bitching about high-heeled shoes with Helen Mirren at an awards gala.

People would be surprised to learn that... As a kid, I aspired to be a world-class rock climber.

How would you like to be remembered? As honest. Honesty impresses me.

Fill in the blank: I wish I could... Whistle "Twisted Nerve."

Designer: Jason Wu

Next: Jewelry designer Monique Péan