For this list, we have decided to focus only on movies where Emma Watson appears, no matter how small her role is. So, don’t expect any of her performances in series, short films, or commercials. And remember, this list is subjective! If you think any movie is not in the right spot, share your opinion! | © STX Entertainment
Emma, Emma, Emma… what happened here? As much as we love seeing her tackle new genres, this techno-thriller left her looking lost among data servers. Watson’s performance felt a little too mechanical, like she was more of a program running in the background. It's not entirely her fault—the script gave her little to work with. Still, not her brightest shining moment. | © STX Entertainment
Regression was supposed to be a psychological thriller, but it left us feeling more confused than intrigued. Emma gives it her all, but something about her performance feels off-key. Her accent wavers, and the intensity we know she’s capable of just doesn’t hit the mark. It's like she was waiting for something big to happen... and then nothing did. | © Dimension Films
Oh, the drama! Emma's attempt to break into serious, politically-charged films with Colonia is admirable, but the movie as a whole is a bit heavy-handed. Watson’s portrayal of a woman fighting for love in the midst of political turmoil feels sincere but lacks the spark we’re used to seeing in her eyes. She’s earnest here, but it’s a slow burn that never fully ignites. | © Majestic Filmproduktion
Watson as the emotional core of a biblical epic? Interesting choice. But in Noah, amidst the deluge of CGI animals and gloomy weather forecasts, her performance feels a little drowned out. Emma tries her best with what she’s given, but ultimately, the grandiosity of the movie sweeps her subtlety away. She's good, but far from her most memorable. | © Paramount Pictures
Yes, it’s animated, but voice acting counts too! Watson voices Princess Pea, but the role is so small, it’s like she barely had time to clear her throat. Her usual charm doesn’t fully come through, and while the movie is cute, it doesn’t leave much of a lasting impression when it comes to Emma’s contribution. | © Universal Pictures
Emma’s early attempt to step out of the Harry Potter shadow was a nice try, but Ballet Shoes didn’t quite have the momentum. Her performance as an aspiring actress was good, but perhaps too close to real life to show her full range. It’s more of a gentle nudge than a bold leap into new territory. Charming, but forgettable. | © BBC Films
Now, this was a refreshing change of pace! While Emma’s role was relatively small, her portrayal of a wardrobe assistant was delightfully grounded. She played it with a quiet, subtle grace—much like an actor trying to prove she could do more than just magic spells. The role was tiny, but she handled it with care, like she was cradling her career in the palm of her hand. | © The Weinstein Company
Young Emma Watson was still finding her footing in her second Harry Potter outing. While she’s certainly charming and lovable, she’s not quite as polished as she would later become. That said, the magic was clearly there—just a little rough around the edges. | © Warner Bros.
Our introduction to Emma as Hermione was undeniably iconic, but let’s be honest—she was still in her "overly eager" phase. Every line delivered with that extra pinch of energy, as though she was making sure everyone in the back row could hear her. But hey, she was 11, and already stealing scenes. It's a promising start, just not her best. | © Warner Bros.
Emma in a comedy? Who knew! Her self-aware, brief cameo in This Is the End was an absolute delight. She embraced her public image and then completely destroyed it by wielding an axe and storming out of a house full of panicking actors. It’s short, it’s sweet, and it showed us a fun side of Emma that we rarely get to see, no matter how terrible the movie was. | © Columbia Pictures
Emma starts to get more comfortable in Hermione’s shoes here. She’s a little less wide-eyed and more self-assured. Her acting feels more natural, and she even gets some genuinely emotional moments (like that punch!). It’s a turning point, but still, she’s not at her full potential just yet. | © Warner Bros.
By this point, Emma Watson had Hermione down to a science. She balances the character’s emotional maturity and teenage awkwardness perfectly. While the movie isn’t as action-packed as some of the others, it allows Emma to show a more nuanced and heartwarming side of Hermione. | © Warner Bros.
This is where Emma started to hit her stride as Hermione. The Yule Ball scene alone shows her growth, as she balances Hermione’s brains with her more vulnerable, emotional side. She’s no longer just the know-it-all—she’s now a fully realized character. A solid, memorable performance. | © Warner Bros.
In the first half of the finale, Emma takes center stage more than ever. Her performance is packed with emotional weight as Hermione faces real, adult challenges. She navigates danger, loss, and love with incredible depth, and you can see how much she’s grown as an actress. | © Warner Bros.
Emma’s Hermione gets fiercer and more complex in this film. She’s not just the sidekick anymore—she’s leading the charge, literally (Dumbledore’s Army, anyone?). Watson balances intelligence and bravery effortlessly. It’s the beginning of Emma’s transformation into a powerhouse actress. | © Warner Bros.
The grand finale, and Emma delivers in full force. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, and she handles it with remarkable maturity. From the heartbreaking moments to the action-packed battles, Emma brings everything she’s learned over the years and leaves it all on the table. | © Warner Bros.
What’s this? Emma Watson as a bratty, fame-obsessed teen? Yes, please! Emma was clearly having fun in The Bling Ring, and it showed. Her portrayal of a shallow, spoiled LA girl was so deliciously over-the-top that it became one of her standout performances. It’s not a character we’d expect from her, and that’s why it works. | © A24
Stepping into the role of Belle, Emma Watson brought the perfect mix of intelligence, kindness, and spirit to the character. While her singing might not be Broadway-worthy, her acting made Belle feel like a fully realized heroine. Emma’s Belle is both fierce and gentle, adding a touch of modernity to a classic character. | © Walt Disney Pictures
A coming-of-age movie that allowed Emma to truly shine outside the magical world. Her portrayal of Sam was heartfelt, vulnerable, and mature. Watson beautifully conveyed the complexities of a young woman trying to find her place in the world. It’s a standout performance that cemented her as more than just "Hermione Granger." | © Summit Entertainment
And here we are, the peak of Emma Watson’s acting so far. In Little Women, Emma takes on the role of Meg, and while it’s an ensemble piece, she stands out with a beautifully nuanced performance. She’s charming and maternal, but also conveys the quiet frustration of a woman caught between duty and desire. It’s a subtle, sophisticated performance, proving she’s not just an actor for big-budget blockbusters, but one who can tackle complex roles with grace and ease. | © Sony Pictures
Ranking Emma Watson’s 20 movie roles from worst to best is no easy task. From casting spells at Hogwarts to singing her heart out as Belle, Emma has taken on a wide variety of roles, each with its own unique charm (and occasional hiccups).
In this list, we’re diving into her acting performances with a playful, self-aware twist, celebrating the highs, acknowledging the lows, and everything in between. Ready to see where your favorites land? Let’s go!
| © Christopher Polk
