Hathaway's Pop Star Drama "Mother Mary" Criticized as Ludicrous

A new film about a troubled music icon has drawn sharp criticism for its lack of self-awareness. "Mother Mary," starring Anne Hathaway, is described as a "dour chamber piece" that even a soundtrack by pop star Charli XCX cannot save. The story follows a former A-list singer, Mother Mary, seeking a career comeback. Haunted and struggling to find a stage outfit, she visits reclusive fashion designer Sam Anselm, played by Michaela Coel. Anselm, a former collaborator and possible ex-lover, now harbors a deep hatred for the pop star. The film attempts to mimic the high-concept language some real pop stars use. However, critics say it misses the crucial element of irony. The result, they argue, is a drama that takes its own absurdity too seriously. Despite flashes of stylish filmmaking from director David Lowery, early reviews suggest the film's central performance and premise fail to convince.