8 Underrated Films by Emma Watson You Have to Watch

Emma Watson is best known for playing Hermione Granger in the ‘Harry Potter’ series, a role that made her a global star. However, beyond the wizarding world, she has taken on diverse roles in smaller films that showcase her range as an actress, often overlooked in favor of her blockbuster work.

These underrated films highlight Watson’s ability to bring depth to complex characters, from historical dramas to modern thrillers. Here’s a list of eight movies where she shines, proving there’s much more to her career than Hogwarts.

Ballet Shoes (2007)

In ‘Ballet Shoes,’ Emma Watson plays Pauline Fossil, one of three orphaned sisters in 1930s London, each pursuing their dreams in acting, aviation, and ballet. The TV movie, based on Noel Streatfeild’s novel, follows their struggles and triumphs under the care of their guardian, Nana. Watson’s performance as the ambitious yet grounded Pauline carries emotional weight, showing her ability to lead a story early in her career.

The film’s charm lies in its heartfelt portrayal of sisterhood and determination, with Watson delivering a standout performance alongside Yasmin Paige and Lucy Boynton. Despite its warm reception by critics for its uplifting story, ‘Ballet Shoes’ remains underseen, making it a hidden gem in Watson’s filmography.

My Week with Marilyn (2011)

In ‘My Week with Marilyn,’ Watson takes on the supporting role of Lucy, a wardrobe assistant caught in a brief romance with Colin Clark, who’s working on a film set with Marilyn Monroe. The movie, based on a true story, captures a week in Monroe’s chaotic life, with Watson’s character adding a grounded, relatable touch to the drama.

Her performance is subtle but effective, showing her ability to shine in smaller roles amidst a star-studded cast, including Michelle Williams and Eddie Redmayne. Though the film earned praise for its lead performances, Watson’s contribution is often overlooked, making this a must-watch for fans of her quieter work.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)

‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ sees Watson as Sam, a free-spirited high school senior who befriends a shy freshman, Charlie, helping him navigate trauma and teenage life. Based on Stephen Chbosky’s novel, the film blends heartfelt coming-of-age themes with raw emotional depth, and Watson’s performance is a highlight.

She brings warmth and complexity to Sam, balancing confidence with vulnerability in a way that resonates deeply. Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival to rave reviews, this indie drama remains one of Watson’s most critically acclaimed roles, yet it’s still underappreciated compared to her bigger projects.

The Bling Ring (2013)

In Sofia Coppola’s ‘The Bling Ring,’ Watson plays Nicki, a rebellious teen obsessed with fame who joins a group burglarizing celebrity homes in Los Angeles. Inspired by real events, the film satirizes celebrity culture, with Watson delivering a bold, transformative performance as a shallow yet magnetic character.

Her portrayal of Nicki, complete with a spot-on Valley girl accent, shows her versatility and willingness to take risks. Despite opening at Cannes and earning praise for its sharp script and Watson’s performance, the film’s niche appeal keeps it under the radar for many viewers.

This Is the End (2013)

Watson makes a memorable cameo as herself in ‘This Is the End,’ a wild apocalyptic comedy where celebrities face the end of the world at James Franco’s house. Playing a heightened, comedic version of herself, she steals scenes with her unexpected humor and toughness, wielding an axe in a chaotic setting.

The star-studded cast, including Seth Rogen and Jonah Hill, adds to the film’s frenetic energy, but Watson’s brief role stands out for its playful self-awareness. Though the movie is a cult favorite, her appearance is often forgotten, making it a fun, underrated moment in her career.

Noah (2014)

In the biblical epic ‘Noah,’ Watson plays Ila, the adopted daughter of Noah, portrayed by Russell Crowe, in a visually stunning retelling of the ark story. Her character grapples with love, loss, and survival, bringing emotional depth to a film filled with grand spectacle.

Watson holds her own alongside heavyweights like Crowe and Jennifer Connelly, showcasing her ability to tackle dramatic roles in large-scale productions. While the film received mixed reviews for its bold take on the classic tale, Watson’s heartfelt performance is a standout that deserves more recognition.

Colonia (2015)

‘Colonia’ features Watson as Lena, a woman who infiltrates a dangerous cult in 1970s Chile to rescue her kidnapped boyfriend, played by Daniel Brühl. The historical thriller, based on true events, highlights her courage and determination in a tense, high-stakes setting.

Watson’s performance is gripping, capturing Lena’s fear and resolve as she navigates a terrifying situation. Despite strong acting from Watson and Brühl, the film’s heavy subject matter and limited release kept it from gaining a wide audience, making it one of her most overlooked roles.

The Circle (2017)

In ‘The Circle,’ Watson stars as Mae, a young woman who joins a powerful tech company that blurs the lines between surveillance and privacy. The thriller, based on Dave Eggers’ novel, explores themes of technology and control, with Watson delivering a nuanced performance as a character caught in a moral dilemma.

Though the film received mixed reviews for its pacing, Watson’s chemistry with co-stars like Tom Hanks and John Boyega adds depth to the story. Its timely themes and her compelling performance make ‘The Circle’ an underrated entry in her career that’s worth revisiting.

What’s your favorite underrated Emma Watson film, and why do you think it deserves more love? Share your thoughts in the comments!