Is ‘Mother Mary’ Worth Watching? Anne Hathaway plays a pop star in David Lowery’s strange drama

Critics praise the performances but say the film’s surreal final act leaves viewers puzzled about its meaning

A new film starring Anne Hathaway as an enigmatic pop icon has arrived with plenty of curiosity surrounding it, but early reactions suggest Mother Mary may not be the easiest watch.

Directed by David Lowery, the A24 drama centres on a fictional global music superstar named Mother Mary, played by Hathaway. The character is portrayed as a towering pop figure whose image, music and mythology echo elements of real world artists such as Lady Gaga. The story follows her unexpected reunion with fashion designer Sam Anselm, played by Michaela Coel, who once helped shape Mary’s public identity.

The two characters share a complicated creative history. Years before the events of the film, Sam designed the visionary stage costumes that helped turn Mother Mary into a cultural phenomenon. Their professional collaboration was intense and deeply personal, but their partnership collapsed in a painful split that left them estranged for a decade.

The film begins when Mary unexpectedly arrives at Sam’s English country estate. The pop star explains that she needs a dress for what she describes as the defining concert of her career. The meeting forces both women to confront their shared past, revisiting the creative connection and emotional tension that once bound them together.

For much of its running time, Mother Mary unfolds as an intimate two character drama. Hathaway portrays the singer as both commanding and fragile, a performer who treats fame almost like a spiritual calling. Coel plays Sam with a guarded intelligence, a designer who remains wary of the superstar who once abandoned their partnership.

Critics reviewing the film have largely agreed that the central performances are compelling. Hathaway fully commits to the eccentric persona of Mother Mary, while Coel brings a sharp emotional presence to the designer whose creations helped build the star’s image.

However, the film’s narrative direction has proven far more divisive. As the story progresses, Lowery shifts the drama into increasingly surreal territory. The film moves away from a grounded conversation about fame and creativity and instead leans into a symbolic and supernatural tone that has left some viewers confused.

Reviewers note that the film ultimately transforms into a strange metaphysical fantasy involving ghostlike imagery and abstract symbolism. What begins as a tense reunion drama becomes a surreal meditation on artistic connection, identity and memory.

That stylistic shift has divided critics. Some admire the ambition of Lowery’s approach, while others argue the film becomes overly complicated and difficult to interpret. The result is a film that may intrigue audiences who enjoy unconventional storytelling but frustrate those expecting a straightforward drama about music and fame.

With its bold performances and unusual narrative choices, Mother Mary is unlikely to leave viewers indifferent. Whether audiences find it fascinating or baffling may ultimately determine whether the film is worth watching. It is set to release on April 17.