It’s hard to believe it’s been over two decades since a ten-year-old Emma Watson first stepped onto Screen at Leavesden Studios to become the iconic Hermione Granger.
While many child stars find themselves boxed into their breakout roles, Watson has pulled off the ultimate Hollywood magic trick: evolving into a critically acclaimed powerhouse, a Brown University grad, and a current MFA student at Oxford University.
Even with a selective acting resume, Watson has managed to rack up some seriously “Fresh” scores on Rotten Tomatoes. Fans on TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) are constantly debating her best non-wizarding roles, so we’ve rounded up her top movies, ranked by the critics!
. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets – %
The second installment proved the “Golden Trio” was here to stay. Even though Hermione spends a good chunk of the movie “petrified” (literally), she still manages to save the day from the hospital wing. Talk about multitasking!
. This Is The End – %
In one of the most viral cameos of , Watson played a hilariously heightened version of herself. Watching her hold her own against Seth Rogen and James Franco during the apocalypse remains a legendary comedic moment.
. My Week With Marilyn – %
Proving there are no small parts, Watson took a break from her studies to play Lucy, a wardrobe assistant. The film earned Michelle Williams an Oscar nod, but fans loved seeing Watson embrace a more grounded, vintage aesthetic.
. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince – %
The sixth film took a dark turn, but it also gave us all the “Romione” feels. Watson’s portrayal of teenage heartbreak and jealousy resonated with fans everywhere, proving she could handle heavy emotional lifting.
. The Perks of Being a Wallflower – %
This was Watson’s “I’m not a wizard anymore” moment. Playing the free-spirited Sam, she earned rave reviews for her American accent and the depth she brought to the beloved YA adaptation.
. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire – %
Between the Yule Ball and the return of Voldemort, this film was a turning point. Watson perfectly captured Hermione’s transition from a girl to a young woman, leaving her “bookworm” shell behind.
. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban – %
Many fans consider this the best film in the franchise. With the introduction of the Time-Turner, Watson got to flex her action-hero muscles, proving she really was the smartest person in the room.
. Little Women – %
Greta Gerwig’s masterpiece saw Watson as the kind-hearted Meg March. Gerwig famously said Watson “embodies everything” she wanted for the March sisters, and the chemistry between her and Saoirse Ronan was pure gold.
. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — Part – %
The end of an era. The final film remains the highest-rated Potter flick on the site. Watson’s tearful goodbye to the character that changed her life remains a core memory for millennials across the globe.
. Ballet Shoes – %
The top spot belongs to this cozy BBC adaptation! Starring as Pauline Fossil, Watson proved her leading-lady status early on. While it didn’t have the budget of a blockbuster, it earned a flawless % from critics who found it absolutely charming.
Which Emma Watson era is your favorite?
Would you like me to look into the viral fan reactions to her recent return to Oxford University?
