The Independent Spirit Award for Best Breakthrough Performance is an award presented annually at the Independent Spirit Awards to honor outstanding performances given by a new talent in an independent
Aaron Eckhart won for In the Company of Men.
Michelle Rodriguez won for Girlfight.
Paul Dano won for L.I.E..
Nia Vardalos won for My Big Fat Greek Wedding.
The 11th Independent Spirit Awards, honoring the best in independent filmmaking for 1995, were announced on March 23, 1996. It was hosted by Samuel L. Jackson.
Mike Figgis, winner of Best Director
Sean Penn, winner of Best Male Lead
Elisabeth Shue, winner of Best Female Lead
Benicio del Toro, winner of Best Supporting Male