Emma Watson picks movies, not roles

After the ride of Harry Potter ended, Emma Watson took time off to find out who she was without Hermione Granger. Attending Brown University in 2009 gave her the time and space she needed to decide if acting was her passion and ultimately, her career.

Despite doubts about the possibility of continuing to act and having a professor tell her she shouldn’t act, Emma took that criticism and used it as a springboard to propel her career forward. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, she explains the effect director Stephen Chbosky (Perks of Being a Wallflower) had on her movie choices and what she looks for in a director.

“The advice he gave me was: “Pick movies, don’t pick roles. Be part of great stories. It doesn’t matter if you’re on screen for two minutes.” So I’ve kind of followed that rule.”

Following this advice has led her to projects she has felt right about and allows her to really think about what movies she wants to be a part of.

“I’ve had to remind myself to hold on for the thing that feels like you would just die if you didn’t get it. It takes patience and faith, but in the long run it will be good.”

As far as her dream director, Emma looks for a director who has passion for the project, not about the money to be made.

“I don’t want a director-for-hire because I fancy the idea of being Joan of Arc. Then, it doesn’t have real heart.”

To read the full interview, pick up the August 9 issue of Entertainment Weekly, now on newsstands.