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 don'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".