Following that , he played Irish attorney Tom Lefroy and love-interest to Jane Austen in '' Becoming Jane '' , a 2007 historical movie inspired by the author 's early life . Next up was '' Penelope '' , which premiered at the 2006 Toronto International Film Festival . Also starring Christina Ricci , it generated polarised reviews . The breakthrough role in McAvoy 's career came in '' Atonement '' , Joe Wright 's 2007 adaptation of Ian McEwan 's novel of the same title . A romantic war film , it focuses on lovers Cecilia and Robbie 's ( Keira Knightley and McAvoy ) lives being torn apart after her jealous younger sister , Briony ( Saoirse Ronan ) falsely accuses him of rape . Upon reading the script , McAvoy said he thought " If I do n't get the part I 'm not reading the book because it 'll be devastating . It 's an amazing role and I really wanted it . " McAvoy has called the film " incredibly sad " but considers it an uplifting experience . He also shared that he hoped viewers will be left " absolutely devastated and harrowed . " Screenings of '' Atonement '' were held at the 2007 Toronto International Film Festival , where it was one of the most acclaimed films present , and Venice Film Festival . '' Atonement '' was a big awards contender ; it was nominated for fourteen BAFTAs and seven Academy Awards . Both McAvoy and Knightley were nominated for their performances at the 65th Golden Globe Awards , respectively . Additionally , the film was lauded by critics , with Metacritic reporting it to have an approval rating of 85 . '' The Hollywood Reporter '' writer Ray Bennett said the duo gave " compelling and charismatic performances "
65th Golden Globe Awards
65th Golden Globe Awards
James McAvoy