There are only a select few names in the world of cinema that have the ability to draw audiences from all over the world. One of these names is Emma Watson, who has more than 73 million Instagram followers (as of this writing).
Watson is best known for portraying Hermione in each of the eight Harry Potter films, but she has appeared in a diverse range of other movies as well. So, when it comes to mainstream movies, she has also delivered Beauty and the Beast, which earned over $1 billion at the box office, in addition to the Harry Potter series. Her other two top-grossing films are Noah and Little Woman.
Whether playing the lead in commercial or independent movies, Watson consistently delivers strong and magnificent performances.
Thus, let us look at the films that helped to justify the hype surrounding the gifted actress.
1. Beauty and the Beast (2017)
The world was captivated by Emma Watson‘s entrancing portrayal of Belle in Disney’s live-action Beauty and the Beast. The movie earned over $1.2 billion worldwide, making it the second-highest-grossing movie of 2017 and the tenth-highest-grossing movie of all time. It beautifully depicted a timeless story with stunning visuals and an entrancing soundtrack. Also, note that it currently holds the second-highest box office position among Disney’s live-action remakes.
Watch Beauty and the Beast on Disney Plus.
2. Little Women (2019)
Emma Watson stood out and received praise for her portrayal of Margaret ‘Meg’ March in Little Women, a departure from the magical realms. Greta Gerwig‘s coming-of-age drama, which explored themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery, struck a chord with viewers.
The movie made over $218 million at the box office worldwide thanks to Watson’s spectacular and moving performance.
Moreover, Little Women was nominated for six Academy Awards at the 92nd ceremony, including Best Picture, Best Actress (Saoirse Ronan), and Best Supporting Actress.
You can stream Little Women on DIRECTV.
3. Noah (2014)
The Darren Aronofsky-directed biblical epic took viewers on a visually stunning and thought-provoking journey. The movie’s $362 million worldwide box office success can be attributed in large part to Emma Watson’s portrayal of Ila, an adopted daughter.
The movie has become Aronofsky’s highest-grossing movie to date with critics describing it as
“A film of grit, grace, and visual wonders that for all its tech-head modernity is built on a spiritual core … In this flawed, fiercely relevant film, wonders never cease.”
Watson’s impressive work not only exemplifies her acting versatility but also confirms her appeal to viewers across a variety of genres.
Noah can be watched on Amazon Prime Video.
4. This Is the End (2013)
Critics have generally given Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg’s post-apocalyptic comedy horror film, This Is the End favorable reviews. The majority of the cast played fabricated and exaggerated versions of themselves. Emma Watson played a heightened version of herself, and she easily stole the show with her perfect comedic timing, astute wit, and endearing charm.
The phenomenal commercial success of This Is the End demonstrates Watson’s star power and appeal on a global scale. The movie, which had a budget of between $34 and $41.9 million, was a financial and critical success, earning over $126 million globally.
This Is the End is streaming on Netflix.
Along with her acting prowess, Emma Watson has drawn praise for her activism and philanthropic work, particularly for her advocacy for women’s rights and her role in the launch of the UN Women campaign (HeForShe).
