Anne Hathaway’s career has blossomed since her delightful turn as Mia Thermopolis in “The Princess Diaries.” From charming comedies to heartbreaking dramas and show-stopping musicals, she’s proven her versatility across genres. Her powerful performance in “Les Misérables” even earned her a well-deserved Academy Award.
Now that “The Idea of You” has captivated audiences on Prime Video, let’s delve into her incredible filmography and explore some must-see Anne Hathaway movies that further showcase her remarkable talent.
1. ‘Les Misérables’ (2012)
- Director: Tom Hooper
- Cast: Anne Hathaway , Amanda Seyfried , Hugh Jackman , Russell Crowe , Sacha Baron Cohen , Helena Bonham Carter
In the 2012 film adaptation of “Les Misérables,” Anne Hathaway’s dedication to her role paid off, earning her the Best Supporting Actress Academy Award. She went to great lengths, even altering her appearance by cutting her hair and enduring food deprivation.
Set in 19th-century France, the movie follows Javert, played by Hugh Jackman, a police officer whose decision to care for a factory worker’s daughter changes their lives forever.
Based on the renowned stage musical and Victor Hugo’s novel, “Les Misérables” remains a captivating cinematic experience, offering poignant storytelling and unforgettable songs that resonate long after the credits roll.
2. The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
- Director: Christopher Nolan
- Cast: Tom Hardy , Christian Bale , Anne Hathaway , Liam Neeson , Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Gary Oldman
In “The Dark Knight Rises” (2012), Anne Hathaway’s Catwoman steals scenes despite her limited screen time. Hathaway’s portrayal adds depth to the film, providing a satisfying conclusion to Nolan’s Batman series.
Within the story, Catwoman and Miranda Tate, played by Marion Cotillard, are pivotal characters. Catwoman, a cunning burglar, and Miranda, a wealthy benefactor, both gravitate towards Bruce Wayne, who emerges from years of isolation.
The film explores dark themes without relying on flashy techniques, showcasing Nolan’s skill in crafting a gripping tale that resonates with audiences.
3. ‘The Princess Diaries’ (2001)
- Director: Garry Marshall
- Cast: Anne Hathaway , Julie Andrews , Hector Elizondo , Heather Matarazzo , Mandy Moore , Caroline Goodall , Robert Schwartzman
In Garry Marshall’s timeless gem, “The Princess Diaries,” Anne Hathaway shines as Mia Thermopolis, a teenage girl thrust into royalty. Alongside the legendary Julie Andrews, Hathaway navigates the complexities of newfound nobility with grace and humor.
Drawing inspiration from Meg Cabot’s novel, this coming-of-age tale blends laughter and heart, promising audiences a delightful escape. Hathaway’s youthful charm, at just eighteen, captivates, making this film a standout in her repertoire. It’s no wonder Hathaway soared to stardom; her on-screen chemistry with Andrews is magnetic.
“The Princess Diaries” isn’t just a film; it’s a coronation of Hathaway’s talent. Her portrayal of Mia mirrors her own ascent in Hollywood, where every awkward stumble leads to triumph. With Andrews as her guide, Hathaway’s journey from ordinary girl to princess is a joy to behold—a testament to the magic of cinema.
4. ‘Rachel Getting Married’ (2008)
- Director: Jonathan Demme
- Cast: Sebastian Stan , Roslyn Ruff , Anne Hathaway , Bill Irwin , Anna Deavere Smith , Annaleigh Ashford
In Jonathan Demme’s “Rachel Getting Married,” Anne Hathaway delivers a performance that steals the spotlight, earning her an Oscar nod for Best Actress. The narrative revolves around a young woman, grappling with a decade-long battle with rehab, who returns home for her sister’s nuptials.
While not the pinnacle of the star’s filmography, Hathaway’s portrayal is flawless, infusing depth into her character’s struggles. Demme crafts a compelling family drama, flawed yet magnetic, with performances that resonate deeply.
Despite its imperfections, the film’s direction and acting elevate it, touching on poignant themes that resonate long after the credits roll.
“Rachel Getting Married” delves into themes of loss and recovery, offering a raw and unfiltered portrayal that may strike a chord with viewers.
5. Colossal (2017)
- Director: Nacho Vigalondo
- Cast: Anne Hathaway, Jason Sudeikis, Dan Stevens, Austin Stowell, Tim Blake Nelson
Colossal is a movie that starts off looking like a story about someone dealing with addiction but ends up being much more. Gloria, played by Hathaway, moves back to her hometown to sort herself out, only to find out that her drinking somehow summons a giant monster on the other side of the world.
She reconnects with Oscar, an old friend who runs a local bar, where she starts working. The movie mixes fantasy with real-life struggles, showing the monster as a symbol of Gloria’s problems.
Hathaway does a great job as Gloria, balancing between desperation and a carefree attitude. Her character is relatable but flawed, often using her charm to get out of trouble, especially with men. It’s a story about facing your demons, even if they’re as big as skyscrapers.
6. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
- Director: David Frankel
- Cast: Meryl Streep , Anne Hathaway , Emily Blunt , Stanley Tucci , Simon Baker , Adrian Grenier
In “The Devil Wears Prada” (2006), the storyline revolves around a recent college graduate who secures a position as an assistant to the exacting editor-in-chief of a prestigious fashion magazine. Meryl Streep delivers a stellar performance in her Oscar-nominated portrayal of the formidable editor, drawing inspiration from the renowned Anna Wintour.
Anne Hathaway takes on the role of Andrea “Andy” Sachs, the inexperienced newcomer thrust into the world of high fashion under Meryl’s guidance. As Andy, Anne skillfully portrays the journey filled with anxiety, apprehension, and moments of embarrassment, endearing herself to audiences with her relatable portrayal.
One memorable scene, where Andy receives a stern reprimand from Miranda for a minor mishap, continues to evoke laughter and sympathy alike.
While Streep shines brightly in the film, Emily Blunt and Hathaway deliver equally compelling performances. Supported by a well-crafted screenplay that imparts a poignant message about pursuing one’s aspirations, “The Devil Wears Prada” remains a cherished cinematic gem, particularly among fashion enthusiasts.
Anne Hathaway takes center stage as a wide-eyed Midwesterner venturing to New York in pursuit of her first professional opportunity. Proudly declaring her editorship at Northwestern University, she embarks on a journey down Madison Avenue, poised for the big leagues.
Adapted from Lauren Weisberger’s bestselling novel, “The Devil Wears Prada” captivates with Hathaway’s portrayal of a young woman navigating the cutthroat world of fashion, authentically embodying the career-driven protagonist.
7. Ella Enchanted (2004)
- Director: Tommy O’Haver
- Cast: Anne Hathaway, Hugh Dancy, Cary Elwes, Vivica A. Fox, Joanna Lumley, Minnie Driver, Eric Idle
In 2004, “Ella Enchanted” emerged as a whimsical interpretation of a beloved tale, adding its own spin to the classic Cinderella narrative. This adaptation, however, sparked mixed reactions by veering significantly from Gail Carson Levine’s original story. Yet, one point of consensus among viewers was Anne Hathaway’s spot-on portrayal during her princess phase.
In this rendition, Ella finds herself under a peculiar curse, compelled to obey every command, leading her on a journey of self-discovery and advocacy for the marginalized creatures of the kingdom’s woods. Hathaway’s versatile talent shines throughout, encompassing drama, physical comedy, musical numbers, and dance routines.
Anne Hathaway takes center stage as Ella, burdened with a spell cast by her fairy godmother Lucinda (portrayed by Vivica A. Fox). In a realm where everyone receives a fairy blessing, Ella’s gift proves to be more of a curse: obedience.
Growing up with this constraint becomes increasingly challenging, especially under the guardianship of her widowed father, Sir Peter (played by Patrick Bergin), and the malevolent Dame Olga (Joanna Lumley), along with her envious stepsisters, Hattie and Olive (depicted by Lucy Punch and Jennifer Higham).
Anne Hathaway shines brilliantly in her role as Ella, radiating with her infectious smile and expressive demeanor. Engaged in a clever and mischievous storyline, she appears to relish every moment, a stark departure from her previous work in “The Princess Diaries.” The entire cast seems to revel in the enchantment of the narrative, including an unlikely character—the snake.