Anne Hathaway’s Dark Pop Star Era: Inside David Lowery’s ‘Mother Mary’

Director David Lowery’s newest venture takes audiences into the glittering yet twisted world of fame with Mother Mary, a psychosexual thriller that reunites Anne Hathaway and Michaela Coel for what promises to be 2026’s most provocative film.

What Is Mother Mary About?

The story follows iconic pop star Mother Mary as she reconnects with her estranged best friend and former costume designer, Sam Anselm, before her comeback performance. What begins as a professional collaboration quickly spirals into something far more sinister, with Sam guiding her old friend through a séance to confront what lies within.

A Challenging Production Journey

Lowery compared the experience to shooting “Apocalypse Now,” emphasizing the intensity of the creative process. Hathaway revealed her own struggles, describing how the role forced her to embrace vulnerability and shed perfectionism. The film faced production delays during the 2023 labor strikes but persevered through to completion.

Hathaway’s Transformation

The Oscar winner fully commits to the role, performing lead vocals for original songs and channeling influences from contemporary pop icons. This marks another ambitious performance in what’s shaping up to be Hathaway’s busiest year, with appearances in The Devil Wears Prada 2, Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, and several other high-profile projects.

Why This Film Matters

As Lowery’s third A24 collaboration following A Ghost Story and The Green Knight, Mother Mary represents a bold exploration of fame, friendship, and the price of stardom. The film blends supernatural elements with pop culture commentary, creating what industry insiders are calling “transformative” cinema.

For more entertainment coverage, check out our latest movie reviews and upcoming film releases.

FAQs