Mother Mary Review: A Bold, Surreal Psychological Drama with Powerful Performances

 

Directed by David Lowery, the film centers on iconic pop star Mother Mary (Anne Hathaway), who, on the eve of a major comeback performance, reconnects with her estranged best friend and former costume designer, Sam Anselm (Michaela Coel). What unfolds is far more than a simple reunion or creative collaboration; it’s a raw, haunting exploration of fractured relationships, fame’s toll, and an almost supernatural bond that ties the two women together.

 

Hathaway and Coel are nothing short of phenomenal. Hathaway fully embodies the larger-than-life pop diva—charismatic, vulnerable, arrogant, and deeply human—while Coel matches her beat for beat with a performance that’s intense, layered, and often devastating. Their chemistry crackles in every scene, whether they’re clashing in heated confrontations or navigating the complicated tenderness of their shared history. The film is essentially a two-hander, and these two actresses elevate it into something electric.

 

The story itself is wildly ambitious and, at times, delightfully unhinged. Lowery leans into surreal, dreamlike territory with a “crazy” conceptual backbone involving a profound, almost otherworldly connection between the characters—elements that veer into supernatural and psychological horror vibes. It won’t be for everyone; the narrative can feel chaotic and metaphor-heavy, occasionally losing its footing in pursuit of its artistic ambitions. Yet when it lands, it hits with surprising emotional and visual power.

 

Visually, the film is a feast. The costume designs for Hathaway’s character are spectacular—bold, inventive, and integral to the storytelling. They don’t just look stunning on screen; they reflect the characters’ inner worlds and the themes of identity, performance, and transformation. Production design and cinematography create a gothic, atmospheric world that perfectly complements the film’s tone.

 

**Mother Mary** is not a crowd-pleaser or easy popcorn entertainment. It’s an arthouse A24 offering that will challenge, frustrate, and enchant in equal measure. If you’re drawn to unconventional storytelling, powerhouse performances, and a wild blend of pop-star glamour with psychological depth (and a touch of the supernatural), this one is a gem. For me, it was damn good—risky, stylish, and deeply affecting. But approach with open eyes: this is very much a film for a specific audience, and that’s precisely what makes it special. Highly recommended for those willing to take the plunge.