Fortunately, there are several possible paths that lead Alyson Hannigan back to the big screen. One method would be for her to star in a critically successful independent film that showcases something that her mostly comedic television shows only occasionally touched on: her dynamic emotional range. If she offers the kind of powerhouse performance we know she's capable of, then positive critical reviews and fan word-of-mouth would soon have Hollywood rumbling about bringing Hannigan back. Alternately, some of her older work can be introduced to a new generation. For instance, Buffy the Vampire Slayer recently received a controversial high-definition upgrade for broadcasting and streaming, and many fans are hoping that Buffy Blu-rays are right around the corner. Considering that Buffy went off the air in 2003, this would legitimately be a chance for an entirely new audience to fall in love with Hannigan, leading to her triumphant Hollywood return.

A final path back to Hollywood would be for Hannigan to direct her own movie. This is how some of the Star Trek alumni, such as Jonathan Frakes, helped escape the shadow of Trek: by becoming proficient and prolific directors. Hannigan could very well direct her own Hollywood return, be it indie drama or raunchy comedy, and instantly revive her Hollywood career, just like … well … magic!