Emma Watson turns 35 today, and if you're hoping for a nostalgic ode to Hogwarts — don't hold your breath. The actress seems to deliberately steer clear of the “Boy Who Lived” in her interviews. Instead, she’s far more eager to talk about the projects that have genuinely captured her heart.
Amélie (2001)
A whimsical French fairytale for adults about a shy waitress who becomes a secret guardian angel to the people of Montmartre. Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, it's a visual poem where each frame feels like a living watercolour. Watson has often cited Amélie as deeply inspiring — and for good reason: it has the madness, imperfection, and everyday magic that Hermione always lacked.
Giant (1956)
James Dean’s final role in this sweeping Texas oil dynasty saga. A three-hour drama starring Elizabeth Taylor — not the most obvious pick for an actress raised on blockbusters. But Watson found in Giant the mature cinematic aesthetic she clearly craved after leaving the wizarding world behind.
Girls (2012–2017)
No Word on Potter?
One might guess that for an actress who, at 11, accidentally became the face of a generation, Harry Potter is like a hometown that’s grown too small. She doesn’t deny her past (unlike, say, Josh Hartnett disowning Pearl Harbor), but she doesn’t cling to it either. Since 2011, her filmography has featured only thoughtful choices — from the intimate drama Colonia Dignidad to the feminist fairy tale Beauty and the Beast.
Hermione Grew Up
Emma Watson is no longer the bushy-haired girl with a fussy smile. Her tastes now lean toward European arthouse, vintage Hollywood, and raw, modern narratives. As for wands and spells? Those belong to the past.
