For those who grew up with the Potterverse, Emma Watson’s portrayal of Hermione Granger is the lifeblood of the series. Beginning with
Philosopher\’s Stone
to conclude the series with the follow-up
Deathly Hallows
, Watson’s charisma, wit, and impressive acting skills are undeniably significant contributions to the entertainment world.
Following the conclusion of the Harry Potter franchise, the actress took part in several independent productions, generally avoiding major projects and concentrating more on her activism and advocacy efforts. Despite this, Watson demonstrates that minimalism can be powerful, with even her few select roles making significant impressions due to their quality over quantity. On reaching 35 years old, we present five of her standout film endeavors outside the realm of Harry Potter, showcasing her prowess as an actor.
Beauty and the Beast
Following the conclusion of the entire Harry Potter series, Emma Watson starred as Belle in Disney’s live-action remake of Beauty and the Beast. Watching her sing her own parts in the movie was delightful, as she portrayed the strong-willed French heroine who ends up enchanted by a beast she initially doesn’t understand. The film featured breathtaking visuals, anthropomorphic household items, and magical elements—themes familiar to Watson from her time playing Hermione Granger.
Surprisingly, the actress was initially offered the role of Cinderella, but she turned it down for not feeling connected enough with the character.
In the movie, Belle stands out as a courageous, determined, and smart figure—a pioneering female role model within Disney’s roster, breaking away from the traditional \”damsel in distress\” archetype found in many fairy tales. Her aspirations extend beyond her quaint French village due to her insatiable hunger for knowledge gleaned from countless books. Through her charisma, sharp intellect, and boundless compassion, Emma Watson successfully embodied this legendary princess with great finesse.
The Advantages of Living as an Observer
Stephen Chbosky’s coming-of-age movie delved into the complexities and emotional depth of adolescent experiences in an honest, intense, and candid manner. At the heart of this exploration was Emma Watson’s portrayal of Sam. As the object of affection for the main character Charlie and also his elder classmate, Watson captivated audiences not only with her short haircut but also through her remarkable acting.
Sam is depicted to illustrate the intricacies of navigating life as a teenage girl in high school. In an emotionally raw moment, she shares her experiences with early bullying and slut-shaming during those challenging first days.
In the movie, Sam remains supportive of Charlie, serving as both his inspiration and highest point of fascination as he persists in admiring her. Despite the lack of romance due to their age difference and Sam’s attraction to others, these scenes create several tender moments throughout the film.
Thanks to Watson\’s portrayal, you fall in love with, empathise with, grow with, and get to learn more about Sam\’s character. One of the most iconic scenes in the film is when Sam and her brother Patrick, along with Charlie, drive through a tunnel while listening to David Bowie\’s \’Heroes\’ She stands up on the back of the pickup truck and opens her arms, facing the wind.
This scene has been highly regarded as one of the best scenes in modern cinema, as the film has found its way to become a cult classic and one of the best modern-day book adaptations so far.
Little Women
The final project Watson worked on for the big screen was arguably her most notable role yet, where she portrayed Meg March in Greta Gerwig’s rendition of Louisa May Alcott\’s classic book. Playing the oldest of the four March sisters, Watson depicts a character known for being delicate, poised, and loving. This character eventually marries out of genuine affection rather than financial security and leads a simple, tranquil existence at home.
At first, Meg appears to be drawn to a luxurious lifestyle and riches, yet after meeting high society members, she shifts her perspective. She ends up captivated by the unpretentious John Brooke and eventually marries him instead.
One of the most powerful scenes in the film has Meg redefining the very core of feminism in the film. In this scene, she is questioned by one of her sisters as to why she wants to get married when she could live her life with her sisters happily, to which she replies,
\”Just because my dreams are different than yours doesn\’t mean they\’re unimportant\”
This scene has formed and initiated countless conversations on feminism being deeply personal and subjective. Meg’s words highlight how feminism isn’t a one-size-fits-all movement—it’s about choice, autonomy, and the freedom to live life on one’s own terms. In choosing marriage and domesticity, Meg reclaims a traditionally “feminine” role not as submission but as empowerment, making it one of the most powerful scenes in the film.
The Bling Ring
In Sofia Coppola\’s crime movie, Emma Watson portrayed Nicolette \”Nicki\” Moore, a character inspired by the real-life notorious group known as the Bling Ring, which was involved in numerous burglaries across the nation. This cinematic work is based on their story.
The movie centered around seven teens who employed technology to hunt down well-known figures with the intention of stealing their residences. Watson portrayed a fictitious rendition of Alexis Christine Haines, earning acclaim for her role. This marked an exploration into a different genre for the actress, following her previous work where she often played assertive and courageous youthful roles.
Noah
Watson has referred to this role as one of the most physically challenging in her acting career.
Noah
Russell Crowe starred as Noah alongside Jennifer Connelly, Ray Winstone, Emma Watson, Logan Lerman, and Anthony Hopkins.
In the film, Watson portrayed Ila, a survivor taken in by Noah and his spouse Naameh. This character demands considerable depth from Watson, particularly when playing an expectant mother during childbirth scenes. It stands out among her challenging roles alongside prominent co-stars and the complex storyline of the movie.
The biblical drama is inspired by Noah\’s Ark from the Book of Genesis and the Book of Enoch and centers on the plot surrounding God\’s order to create a large ark to help survive Noah\’s family and a pair of every living animal. The film, although it received positive reviews, was also criticised for its depiction of biblical figures.