Anne Hathaway is stepping into a new role – that of a pop star – for the upcoming psychological thriller Mother Mary, and the transformation includes not just acting, but singing original music co-written with some of the biggest names in contemporary pop. The first single, “Burial,” released on March 5, 2026, showcases Hathaway’s vocal performance on a track crafted in collaboration with Charli XCX, Jack Antonoff, and George Daniel.
The project marks a significant foray into music for the Oscar-winning actress, known for her roles in films like Les Misérables and The Devil Wears Prada. While Hathaway has sung in previous film roles, including her rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” which achieved minor chart success in 2012, this is a different undertaking. She is not simply performing a pre-existing song, but actively contributing to the creation of original pop music, guided by the expertise of established hitmakers. The collaboration highlights a growing trend of blurring lines between acting and music, with artists increasingly exploring both mediums.
‘Mother Mary’: A Psychological Thriller with a Pop Soundtrack
Directed by David Lowery, known for his work on The Green Knight, Mother Mary is described as a “psychosexual pop opera.” The film stars Hathaway as the titular pop star, and Michaela Coel as Sam Anselm, her long-estranged friend and former costume designer. The narrative centers around their reunion on the eve of Hathaway’s comeback performance, with “long-buried wounds” resurfacing as they reconnect. Hunter Schafer, Kaia Gerber, and FKA twigs as well feature in the cast, with FKA twigs contributing original music to the film alongside Charli XCX and Jack Antonoff.
The soundtrack, featuring seven original songs entirely sung by Hathaway, is set to be released on April 17, 2026, coinciding with the film’s theatrical debut. The tracklist includes “Holy Spirit,” “Burial,” “My Mouth Is Lonely For You,” “Holy Spirit 20,” “Dark Cradle,” “Blue Flame,” and “Cut Ties.” The creative team behind the music – Charli XCX, Jack Antonoff, and FKA twigs – represent a powerhouse of contemporary pop and alternative music production.
Charli XCX’s Expanding Cinematic Universe
Charli XCX’s involvement extends beyond co-writing and co-producing the soundtrack. She has been increasingly visible in the film world, demonstrating a multifaceted artistic vision. In 2025, she penned the soundtrack for a remake of Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights, and also starred in her own mockumentary, The Moment. Stereogum notes that this cinematic involvement is currently “in full swing” for the artist.
Antonoff, a frequent collaborator with artists like Taylor Swift and Lana Del Rey, brings his signature production style to the project. His involvement adds further weight to the soundtrack, suggesting a high level of musical ambition. George Daniel, the husband of Charli XCX and a member of the band The 1975, also contributed to the writing of “Burial,” further solidifying the collaborative nature of the project.
Hathaway’s Vocal Debut and Musical Background
While primarily known for her acting prowess, Anne Hathaway does have a background in musical performance. She starred in the 2012 film adaptation of Les Misérables, winning an Academy Award for her performance as Fantine, which included a notable rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream.” She also lent her voice to animated films like Rio and Rio 2, performing songs for their soundtracks. However, Mother Mary represents a departure from these previous roles, requiring Hathaway to embody the persona of a contemporary pop star and deliver original material written in collaboration with leading pop musicians.
Critics have already weighed in on “Burial,” with some noting its “vibey dance-pop” qualities and “Ray Of Light overtones.” Tom Breihan of Stereogum questions whether the song would be a hit for an established pop star, but suggests it could work as a mature release for an artist already at the peak of their career. The song’s title has also sparked speculation, with some wondering if it’s a nod to the electronic musician Burial, though this remains unconfirmed.
The Creative Team and the Film’s Aesthetic
The combination of Lowery’s directorial vision and the musical contributions of Charli XCX, Jack Antonoff, and FKA twigs suggests a unique aesthetic for Mother Mary. Lowery’s previous work, including The Green Knight, is known for its atmospheric visuals and unconventional storytelling. The involvement of these musicians promises a soundtrack that is both sonically innovative and emotionally resonant. The film’s synopsis hints at a complex and psychologically driven narrative, exploring themes of fame, friendship, and the weight of the past.
Michaela Coel, known for her critically acclaimed series I May Destroy You, brings her own distinct artistic sensibility to the project. Her role as Sam Anselm, the estranged friend and stylist of Mother Mary, suggests a dynamic and potentially fraught relationship at the heart of the film. The inclusion of Hunter Schafer and Kaia Gerber further adds to the film’s star power and contemporary appeal.
The soundtrack album, Mother Mary: Greatest Hits, will be released via A24 Music on April 17, 2026. Pitchfork confirms the seven-song tracklist and highlights the fact that Hathaway sings all the songs on the album.
The film is expected to open in theaters nationwide on April 24, 2026, offering audiences a glimpse into the world of Mother Mary and the complex relationships that define her life. The combination of a compelling narrative, a talented cast, and an innovative soundtrack positions Mother Mary as a potentially significant release in the spring film season.
As the release date approaches, anticipation is building for both the film and the soundtrack. The collaboration between Anne Hathaway and these prominent musicians represents a bold and intriguing artistic experiment, promising a unique and captivating cinematic experience.
The next key date for the project is April 17, 2026, with the release of the Mother Mary: Greatest Hits soundtrack. Fans and critics alike will be eager to hear the full album and assess Hathaway’s musical performance. Following that, the film’s theatrical release on April 24, 2026, will provide a complete picture of this ambitious and unconventional project.
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