One of the best big-screen performances of the year is delivered by Jennifer Lawrence in “Winter’s Bone,” director Debra Granik’s ode to Ozark rednecks and  a big winner at Sundance 2010. Lawrence portrays 17-year-old Ree Dolly, who cares for her younger brother and sister and their brain-dead mom.

The family faces eviction from their rundown house unless Ree is able to find her fugitive father, who put up the house for bail before vanishing. Lawrence, who turns 20 on Aug. 11,  is in nearly every scene, and provides the movie’s strong backbone. The supporting cast, expecially John Hawkes as her Uncle Teardrop, contribute authentic back-up. Lawrence’s performance is worthy of an Oscar, but I’m afraid she’ll be forgotten by the time award season comes around.