Maggie Smith: Movies You Absolutely Need To Rewatch

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by Alexandra Mansilla

Maggie Smith: Movies You Absolutely Need To Rewatch

28 Sept 2024

On the 27th, a legend passed away — the incredible Maggie Smith. She was brilliant in everything she did — from her masterful wand work in the Harry Potter movies to her razor-sharp wit in Downton Abbey, and so many other unforgettable films. Today, we are celebrating some of her finest roles. If you have already seen them, they are definitely worth a rewatch. And if you haven’t (lucky you!), you are in for a treat.

The Prime Of Miss Jean Brodie (1969)

Set in 1930s Edinburgh, this film follows Miss Jean Brodie, a captivating and eccentric teacher at an all-girls school who shapes her students with her unconventional views and romantic ideals. Maggie Smith absolutely shines in the title role, delivering a powerful performance that won her an Oscar for Best Actress. Her portrayal of Brodie is charming yet deeply flawed, making it impossible to look away.

The Prime Of Miss Jean Brodie. Image: IMDb

Gosford Park (2011)

This murder mystery takes place at a wealthy English estate during a 1930s weekend hunting party. The lines between the upstairs guests and downstairs servants blur as a murder unfolds. Maggie Smith plays the wonderfully snobbish and sarcastic Constance, Countess of Trentham, delivering biting lines with her signature wit. She is an absolute scene-stealer in this one, earning her multiple nominations.

Gosford Park. Image: IMDb

Harry Potter (2001–2011)

Our beloved professor, Minerva McGonagall, from the movie series about the boy who lived. One of our most memorable moments is when she protects Hogwarts by bringing the stone knights to life.

Once, Graham Norton said, "That role did change your life in a way!" Maggie's response was, "Yes, a lot of very small people used to say hello to me. That was nice."

The Downton Abbey (2010–2015)

This beloved British series follows the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants during the early 20th century. Maggie Smith plays the sharp-tongued, quick-witted Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham, and she is an absolute gem (as always).

The Downton Abbey. Image: IMDb

A Room With a View (1985)

Set in Edwardian England, this romantic drama tells the story of Lucy Honeychurch, a young woman torn between societal expectations and following her heart. Maggie Smith plays Charlotte Bartlett, Lucy’s overbearing and uptight cousin, who provides both humour and tension throughout the film. Smith’s brilliant performance earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

A Room With a View. Image: IMDb

Sister Act (1992)

In this feel-good comedy, a lounge singer hiding out in a convent transforms the choir of nuns into a lively performance group. Maggie Smith plays Mother Superior, the strict head of the convent who initially disapproves of all the changes but ultimately softens. Her blend of dignity and dry humour adds so much charm to the film.

Sister Act. Image: IMDb

Othello (1965)

A Shakespearean tragedy, Othello tells the story of jealousy and betrayal that leads to a tragic downfall. Maggie Smith plays Desdemona, Othello’s innocent and loving wife, whose fate becomes central to the drama. Smith’s performance as Desdemona showcases her classical acting skills, bringing vulnerability and grace to the role.

Othello. Image: IMDb

The Lady in the Van (2015)

Based on a true story, this quirky film follows a homeless woman who has lived in a van parked in a man’s driveway for 15 years. Maggie Smith plays Miss Shepherd, the eccentric and stubborn woman at the centre of it all. She brings a perfect mix of humour and heart to the role, making her portrayal of Miss Shepherd one of her most unforgettable performances.

The Lady in the Van. Image: IMDb

California Suite (1978)

This comedy-drama tells four different stories about guests staying at a luxury hotel in California. Maggie Smith plays Diana Barrie, an actress nominated for an Oscar while dealing with a strained marriage. Her layered and emotional performance earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

California Suite. Image: IMDb

Travels with My Aunt (1972)

This quirky comedy follows a buttoned-up banker who gets swept into an adventure with his eccentric Aunt Augusta. Maggie Smith plays Aunt Augusta, a wild, free-spirited woman who takes her nephew on a wild journey. Smith’s vibrant and larger-than-life performance earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.

Travels with My Aunt. Image: IMDb

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011)

A group of British retirees moves to a rundown hotel in India, each hoping for a fresh start. Maggie Smith plays Muriel Donnelly, a grouchy, initially xenophobic woman who goes through a touching transformation. Her character’s witty one-liners and personal growth add depth to the film, and she is a joy to watch (again, as always).

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. Image: IMDb

by Alexandra Mansilla