Best Supporting Actress: Lupita Nyong’o, 12 Years a Slave (2014)

Much like their male counterparts, the Best Supporting Actress category was filled with a number of scene stealing performances, some of which were among the most powerful of the decade. However, none stood out more than Lupita Nyong’o’s brilliant film debut in Steve McQueen’s harrowing adaptation of Solomon Northup’s 12 Years a Slave. Playing the role of Patsey, Nyong’o instantly put herself out as a name to be on the lookout for with the emotionally demanding role. Though every other winner is deserving of recognition, it’s hard to argue any film debut being more successful than winning an Oscar.