New insights have surfaced regarding David Lowery’s upcoming film Mother Mary, primarily through a recent Vogue cover story featuring Anne Hathaway, who plays the titular character. In this A24 film, Hathaway portrays a pop star reminiscent of a blend between Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift, who escapes the pressures of a tour to reconnect with an old friend and fashion designer, played by Michaela Coel, instrumental in crafting her public image.
The Vogue article, penned by Maya Singer, reveals that Mother Mary is set to be a complex and intense cinematic experience. Much of the film revolves around the creation of a spectacular dress, with key scenes featuring Hathaway and Coel in a 13th-century barn, where the atmosphere was described as pushing everyone to their limits. Hathaway noted the challenge of embracing the role, saying that to embody Mother Mary, she had to transform into material for the director, David Lowery, to shape.
Lowery shared his approach to the film, likening it to the intense experiences during the filming of Apocalypse Now. He recounted a moment when Hathaway expressed her concerns about the impact of her performance on him, to which Coel reassured her with support and trust. This emotional depth was further highlighted by choreographer Dani Vitale, who noted that Hathaway’s bravery during a challenging dance sequence brought the crew to tears, fostering a strong bond among the team.
The production, filmed in and around Cologne, Germany, features original songs from industry heavyweights Jack Antonoff and Charli XCX, alongside a standout cast that includes FKA twigs, Hunter Schafer, and Kaia Gerber. Hathaway’s experience was unique, as she began filming before the musical elements were complete, requiring her to immerse herself in the role with a fresh perspective. She candidly acknowledged the difficulty of the process, emphasizing the humility involved in approaching the character as a beginner.
In an email conversation, Charli XCX shared insights about the collaborative process with Antonoff, inspired by Hathaway’s dynamic physicality, which they incorporated into their songwriting.
The Vogue feature also touches on the supportive friendships in Hathaway’s life, as evidenced by comments from fellow Oscar nominee Bradley Cooper, who praised her kindness, intelligence, and the genuine connections she fosters with those around her.
Mother Mary is shaping up to be a remarkable film that promises to blend creativity and deep emotional exploration, driven by the performances of Hathaway and Coel and set against a backdrop of innovative music and striking visuals. As anticipation builds, this project serves as a testament to the resilience and artistry of those involved, showcasing that even the most challenging roles can lead to profound personal growth and artistic fulfillment.