Sarah Jessica Parker doesn't want to play the "poor man's version" of Carrie Bradshaw.

The actress is among nine leading ladies celebrated in Elle's Hollywood issue. The American edition of the glossy magazine features women who have made a significant impact on the film industry in its special October issue.

The chosen actresses share their stories about favourite roles and life in the limelight prompting Sex and the City star Sarah to open up about the famous character she played in Sex and the City.

"I don't love the idea of playing another woman who loves fashion and is slightly flawed in New York City," she said.

"I loved Sex and the City's Carrie [Bradshaw] and I don't want to do the poor man's version of her. And while those are often the lucrative things to do, it's more reason to look in the other direction."

British actress Emma is best known for her portrayal of Hermione in the popular Harry Potter franchise.

Despite her recent success with teen drama The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Emma still likes to look back on her first role.

"I just knew, from the moment I read Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone that I was meant to play that role," she gushed.

"I put one of the Potter films on the other night. And it was amazing to me that I had done all of that. I have to remind myself every now and then."

Also honoured are Octavia Spencer, Cate Blanchett, Kristen Wiig, Uma Thurman, Elle Fanning, Shirley MacLaine and Susan Sarandon.