London, United Kingdom – Anne Hathaway’s foray into music continues with the release of “Burial,” the first single from the soundtrack of the upcoming A24 psychological thriller, Mother Mary. The song, a dramatic synth-pop track, marks a significant collaboration for the Oscar-winning actress, co-written with a roster of prominent musicians including Charli XCX, Jack Antonoff, and George Daniel. The release has generated considerable buzz, not only for Hathaway’s vocal performance but also for the creative team behind the project, signaling a unique intersection of film, and music.
The track’s arrival comes ahead of the film’s theatrical debut on April 17th, and offers a glimpse into the sonic landscape of Mother Mary. Directed by David Lowery, the film stars Hathaway as a fictional pop star of the same name, navigating a complex reunion with her estranged best friend and former costume designer, Sam Anselm, played by Michaela Coel. The narrative promises a blend of psychological tension and pop culture commentary, with early trailers hinting at potentially darker, supernatural themes. “Burial” itself, with its soaring chorus and atmospheric electronic beats, sets a tone of high drama and intrigue, reminiscent of artists like Lady Gaga, and even subtly echoing elements of Charli XCX’s own distinctive style.
This isn’t Hathaway’s first venture into song. She previously lent her voice to soundtracks for films like Río, contributing to the track “Hot Wings (I Wanna Party),” and famously performed “I Dreamed a Dream” in the 2012 adaptation of the musical Les Misérables, a role for which she won an Academy Award. Though, Mother Mary represents a different kind of musical undertaking, with Hathaway taking a more central role in the songwriting process and embodying a character whose identity is intrinsically linked to her musical persona.
A Collaborative Effort: Hathaway, XCX, Antonoff, and Daniel
The creation of “Burial” was a collaborative effort, bringing together diverse musical talents. Charli XCX, a British singer, songwriter, and record producer known for her experimental pop sound, played a key role in co-writing the song. She has recently been involved in several film-related musical projects, including the soundtrack for her own mockumentary, The Moment, and the album Wuthering Heights. Jack Antonoff, a highly sought-after producer and songwriter, has worked with a wide range of artists, including Taylor Swift, Lorde, and Lana Del Rey, and is known for his ability to craft emotionally resonant and commercially successful songs. Completing the songwriting team is George Daniel, the drummer for the British band The 1975, and Charli XCX’s husband, bringing his rhythmic expertise to the track.
The involvement of FKA twigs extends beyond just musical contributions. she also appears in Mother Mary, adding another layer of artistic depth to the project. The soundtrack, titled Mother Mary: Greatest Hits, is entirely sung by Hathaway and produced by this core group of artists, promising a cohesive and immersive sonic experience for audiences.
The Mother Mary: Greatest Hits Tracklist
The full tracklist for the Mother Mary: Greatest Hits soundtrack, due out April 17 via A24 Music, has been revealed, offering a more comprehensive look at the musical direction of the film:
- 01 Holy Spirit
- 02 Burial
- 03 My Mouth Is Lonely For You
- 04 Holy Spirit 2
- 05 Dark Cradle
- 06 Blue Flame
- 07 Cut Ties
(Above: Anne Hathaway performing “Hot Wings (I Wanna Party)” from the film “Rio”)
Charli XCX’s Expanding Role in Film Soundtracks
Charli XCX’s involvement in Mother Mary is part of a broader trend of her expanding influence in the world of film soundtracks. Her recent operate on Wuthering Heights demonstrates her ability to create atmospheric and emotionally evocative music that complements visual storytelling. The soundtrack was well-received by critics, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile and innovative artist. Her contribution to Mother Mary suggests a continued interest in exploring the intersection of music and cinema, and her collaborative spirit has clearly resonated with filmmakers like David Lowery.
The film itself is generating anticipation, not only for Hathaway’s performance but also for its exploration of themes surrounding fame, identity, and the complexities of personal relationships. The reunion between Mother Mary and Sam Anselm, her former stylist, forms the central narrative thread, promising a story that delves into the pressures of the music industry and the challenges of maintaining authentic connections in a world of public scrutiny. The presence of rising stars like Hunter Schafer and Alba Baptista in the ensemble cast further adds to the film’s appeal.
A24’s Track Record with Music and Psychological Thrillers
A24, the production company behind Mother Mary, has established a reputation for supporting innovative and boundary-pushing filmmaking, often incorporating compelling soundtracks into their projects. The company is known for its willingness to take risks and explore unconventional narratives, and Mother Mary appears to be no exception. A24’s previous work in the psychological thriller genre, combined with its commitment to showcasing unique musical talent, suggests that Mother Mary will be a film that stays with audiences long after the credits roll.
The release of “Burial” is a strategic move by A24, designed to build anticipation for the film and introduce audiences to its distinctive sonic world. The song’s blend of electronic beats, soaring vocals, and atmospheric textures creates a compelling listening experience that effectively captures the film’s mood and themes. As the April 17th release date approaches, all eyes will be on Mother Mary to observe if it lives up to the considerable hype.
The film is one of four slated for release in 2026 starring Anne Hathaway, alongside The Devil Wears Prada 2 (May 1), The Odyssey (July 17), and Verity (Oct. 2), marking a busy year for the acclaimed actress.
As audiences await the full release of Mother Mary: Greatest Hits, “Burial” offers a compelling preview of the musical landscape within the film. The collaboration between Hathaway, XCX, Antonoff, and Daniel promises a soundtrack that is both artistically ambitious and emotionally resonant, further cementing the film’s position as a must-see event for fans of psychological thrillers and innovative pop music. The film’s premiere on April 17th will undoubtedly be a key date for both the music and film industries.
Stay tuned to World Today Journal for further updates on Mother Mary and its soundtrack as the release date approaches. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and reactions to “Burial” in the comments below.
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