It has been over a decade since the credits rolled on the final Harry Potter film, but for Emma Watson, the magic was only just beginning. While many child stars struggle to find their footing in adulthood, the -year-old actress and activist has curated a resume as brainy and bold as Hermione Granger herself.
Now, Watson has officially shed her Hogwarts robes for a permanent place among Hollywood’s elite, but not all of her projects have been critical darlings. Fans on TikTok and X are constantly revisiting her filmography, and thanks to Rotten Tomatoes, we have a clear look at which projects the critics loved-and which ones fell off the broom.
The viral discussion has prompted fans to debate her ultimate transitions, her biggest risks, and the career high that secured her legendary status.
Stepping Into the Indie Scene
Fresh off the Potter set, Watson dipped her toes into the indie scene with “My Week with Marilyn” (% on Rotten Tomatoes). While it was a supporting role as wardrobe assistant Lucy, it proved she could hold her own alongside industry heavyweights like Eddie Redmayne.
She followed that up with the ultimate Gen Z classic, “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” (%). Playing the vibrant and free-spirited Sam, Watson helped bring Stephen Chbosky’s beloved novel to life, creating a viral moment before viral was even a thing. +
“Her performance as Sam is honestly unmatched,” one fan shared in a trending TikTok video. “She completely made us forget about Hermione for a second.”
Taking Wild Risks and Going Viral
Watson has never been afraid of a challenge, and her career decisions in the s proved she was ready to shed her good-girl image. She pivoted to a “bad girl” role in Sofia Coppola’s “The Bling Ring” (%), playing a fictionalized version of reality star Alexis Neiers.
Fans still routinely quote her iconic “I want to lead a country one day” line across social media.
She even showed off her comedic chops in the apocalypse comedy “This Is the End” (%), where she played a hilariously heightened version of herself. Watching Emma Watson rob Seth Rogen and James Franco with an axe remains pure cinematic gold for fans on X.
The Gritty Experiments and Blockbuster Hits
Of course, not every spell hits the mark. Watson took a walk on the dark side with the historical thriller “Colonia” (%) and the psychological drama “Regression” (%). While these scores were significantly lower, they showcased her willingness to tackle heavy, gritty subject matter far removed from the Gryffindor common room.
She also ventured into the biblical with Darren Aronofsky’s “Noah” (%), playing the literal mother of the new human race.
By , Watson achieved every Disney fan’s dream by playing Belle in the live-action “Beauty and the Beast” (%). Critics agreed her Ivy League background and bookish energy made her the perfect fit for the princess, leading the film to a massive . billion dollar box office run.
While the techno-thriller “The Circle” (%) alongside Tom Hanks struggled to find its footing, Watson bounced back in a major way with her most recent hit.
The Ultimate Career High
Currently sitting at a staggering % on Rotten Tomatoes, Greta Gerwig’s “Little Women” is officially the crown jewel of Watson’s post-Potter career. Playing the elegant Meg March, Watson helped craft what many call the definitive version of the classic tale.
Whether she is fighting for human rights, managing her sustainable gin brand, or leading a star-studded cast, one thing is certain: Emma Watson’s legacy is firmly cemented in Hollywood history.
Unexpected Team-Up: Prince William and Emma Watson Unite for Change
Prince William had plenty to celebrate this weekend, but his latest public appearance quickly turned heads for a very different reason. After marking his 44th birthday and Father's Day with his family, the future king returned to royal duties—and made a surprisingly personal confession about the emotional toll of climate change.
William joined Hollywood stars Emma Watson and Benedict Cumberbatch at a United for Wildlife forum in London, an initiative he launched with the Royal Foundation in 2013. The organization works around the world to combat wildlife trafficking, environmental crime, and the destruction of endangered species.
But it was William's candid admission about his own fears that stole the spotlight.
The Prince of Wales revealed that climate change has caused him "sleepless nights," admitting he has struggled with anxiety about what the future could look like. Yet instead of allowing those fears to overwhelm him, William said seeing real progress through conservation efforts has helped keep his environmental anxiety under control.
He also delivered a powerful message to business leaders, urging them to become the kind of leaders they admired when they were children. With technology and innovation transforming the world at an incredible pace, William challenged CEOs to use their influence to create meaningful change.
The event launched London Climate Action Week, with more royal appearances expected, including the Earthshot Prize assembly.
Emma Watson also delivered a surprising revelation of her own. The Harry Potter star highlighted the fashion industry's enormous environmental impact, pointing out that it produces more emissions than aviation and ranks behind only oil among major polluting industries.
Watson, who is also pursuing a doctorate in philosophy at Oxford, shared a hilarious story about mistakenly believing paparazzi were following her. After spotting photographers with telephoto lenses, she arranged a distraction and escaped through another exit. The twist? They weren't photographing her at all. They were waiting to capture a red kite.
Meanwhile, Benedict Cumberbatch praised William as "a great guy" and urged businesses and individuals to recognize that they can still make a difference, even when global environmental challenges appear overwhelming.
With William, Watson, and Cumberbatch joining forces on the issue, the London forum delivered a clear message: the fight against environmental destruction is becoming impossible for the world's biggest names to ignore.
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