Emma Watson: I believe in a higher power

British star Emma Watson stars as Ila, Noah's daughter Niko Tavernise/Paramount Pictures

Noah actress, Emma Watson, most famous for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series, has spoken out about her own beliefs.

The British actress said she has always been "more spiritual, than specifically religious".

"I had a sense that I believed in a higher power, but that I was more of a Universalist," she told The Telegraph.

"I see that there are these unifying tenets between so many religions and I'm really interested in those things that are more far-reaching than culture, nationality, race or religion."

Despite her own ambiguity, Watson joined those who looked forward to the debate Noah could stimulate, saying: "I think it's amazing to make a film that celebrates faith and that gets a conversation going, because it's such an important subject."

However, Noah has faced a significant amount of controversy. Many in the faith community have been particularly sceptical about the way in which the plot retains biblical accuracy, while the film was banned in several Muslim countries for its depiction of the titular character, who is also a prophet in the Koran.

Some Christians contend, however, that believers should welcome the opportunity to discuss their faith and use Noah as a springboard to share the Gospel.

Jonathan Snowden, biblical adviser for the film, believes it is valuable in opening up reflections on the biblical narrative, mercy, faith and intimacy with God.

"We can have fun, spirited debates of how you'd do it differently if you had $125 million to make your version of Noah's ark, but let's focus on the opportunity for now," he says in an article for the Christian Post.

Paramount Studios responded to criticism by issuing a disclaimer to its marketing materials which states that the story remains "true to the essence, values and integrity" of Scripture, while taking some "artistic license".

News
UK Supreme Court rules Religious Education in Northern Ireland unlawful
UK Supreme Court rules Religious Education in Northern Ireland unlawful

The UK Supreme Court has ruled that the current approach to Religious Education and collective worship in Northern Ireland schools breaches human rights and is unlawful.

Who was Hilda of Whitby and why is she important?
Who was Hilda of Whitby and why is she important?

19 November is the day when Anglicans remember St Hilda of Whitby. She was a powerful and important woman in the history of the English Church. This is her story.

Over 2,000 anti-Christian hate crimes reported across Europe in 2024
Over 2,000 anti-Christian hate crimes reported across Europe in 2024

Despite a slight drop in overall numbers, the attacks are becoming more violent in nature, a new report has warned.

Cultivating the fruits of the Spirit: Goodness that embodies righteousness and truth
Cultivating the fruits of the Spirit: Goodness that embodies righteousness and truth

We have reached goodness in our journey through the fruits of Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) - a virtue often spoken of but less often understood.