**Anne Hathaway Embodies a Pop Star in A24’s Thriller ‘Mother Mary’**
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Anne Hathaway takes on the challenging role of a pop star in the upcoming psychological thriller, ‘Mother Mary’, which is set to release in select cinemas on April 17, before expanding to nationwide screenings a week later. The film promises to delve into the complexities of fame and personal relationships as Hathaway’s character navigates a pivotal moment in her career.

The actress, renowned for her versatile roles, shared insights into her preparation for the film at its premiere on April 13. To authentically embody the character, Hathaway reached out to real-life pop sensation Charli XCX for guidance. She expressed her admiration for Charli’s artistry and sought to understand the intricacies of a pop star’s life, stating, “The person that I spoke to was Charli… I wanted to talk to her about the music because she wrote such amazing music that I was going to perform.”
In addition to her consultation with Charli, the film features an impressive soundtrack that includes original music from various artists, showcasing the combined talents of FKA Twigs, Charli, and Jack Antonoff, who also takes on a producer role for the project. One of the standout songs from the soundtrack is “Burial,” which Hathaway co-wrote alongside Charli, Antonoff, and Charli’s husband, George Daniel, who is also the drummer for The 1975.
Choreography also played a significant role in Hathaway’s preparation. Working closely with Dani Vitale, the film’s choreographer who has extensive experience touring with musicians, Hathaway gained a new appreciation for the physical and emotional demands placed on pop stars. Reflecting on this, she remarked, “I just realised about pop stars is they’re endurance athletes who can do it all in platform heels.”
Hathaway’s experiences during the making of ‘Mother Mary’ allowed her to understand the immense energy and self-belief required of pop performers. “They are the most charming people on the planet,” she noted, acknowledging the bravery it takes to express such vulnerability on stage. In her own career as an actress, she contrasts this approach, preferring to convey her feelings through a more curated lens. As a result, Hathaway is dismissive of the idea of pursuing a career in pop music, humourously affirming, “I can’t see that happening.”
The narrative of ‘Mother Mary’ centres around the titular character, whose long-dormant emotional struggles surface as she reconnects with her estranged best friend, Sam Anselm, played by Michaela Coel. This reunion occurs just before a highly anticipated comeback performance, adding layers of tension and complexity to the storyline.
Joining Hathaway and Coel in the film’s ensemble are several notable actors, including Hunter Schafer, Kaia Gerber, and FKA Twigs. The diverse cast brings various talents and perspectives, enriching the cinematic experience.
‘Mother Mary’ is anticipated to attract both Hathaway’s established fanbase and those intrigued by its exploration of fame, friendship, and the personal toll of a life in the spotlight. With its debut in select cinemas on April 17 and a broader release planned for April 24, audiences are eager to witness Hathaway’s transformation into a pop icon and the story’s unfolding drama.
As the film approaches its premiere, the blend of Hathaway’s performance, the involvement of acclaimed music artists, and a provocative narrative promises a compelling and immersive experience for viewers. With Hathaway at the forefront, ‘Mother Mary’ could very well become a significant entry in A24’s growing catalogue of thought-provoking and original films.
