When it comes to movies by writer/director David Lowery, it is definitely difficult to predict what to expect. In fact, one should expect the unexpected when entering one of his films. His utterly fascinating and undeniably affecting work in his previous movies, Ain’t Them Bodies Saints, Pete’s Dragon (2016), A Ghost Story, The Old Man & The Gun, and The Green Knight, is utterly indicative of an incredibly talented filmmaker with a vast range of skills. So when I heard that Mother Mary is his latest feature, I couldn’t wait to be surprised, moved, and mesmerized.
And the filmmaker meets all my expectations. Mother Mary follows the estranged relationship between pop-singing superstar Mother Mary (Anne Hathaway) and bold fashion designer Sam Anselm (Michaela Coel). After undergoing a personal crisis and taking a much-needed hiatus, Mary is ready to reemerge like a phoenix rising from the ashes. As she prepares to launch a massive comeback world tour, she realizes her outfits and costumes need to make bold statements and shine brightly like the star she is. Though she has worked with several designers in recent years, no one has captured and highlighted her audacious spirit and artistic soul like Sam Anselm’s wardrobe. Though the two have not spoken in years, Mary seeks out Sam to hopefully reconcile, reconnect, and collaborate on a brand new, sensational look for her public resurgence.
Since this movie is full of amazing surprises, I decided to keep my synopsis to a minimum. It’s best enjoyed and appreciated with as little knowledge as possible. I will reveal that this is genuinely an art film, where Lowery uses gorgeous and sometimes hypnotic imagery and story elements that are inspired by supernatural folklore, Catholic/Christian iconography, to create some gorgeously surreal and dreamlike sequences that serve to enhance this tale about two seemingly lost souls meant to work together. Lowery’s use of images, colors, symbolism, music, songs, and costumes reflects the visionary work of a master artist who knows exactly what he wants his audience to experience. I was truly blown away by it all and loved every minute.
Of course, Lowery’s vision could not have been fully realized without the incredible performances of both Anne Hathaway and Michaela Coel. Both actors are in top form here, reflecting pain, longing, passion, heartache, but also the strength to persevere and rise above the things that have stalled their careers and partnership. I also enjoyed the supporting turns by Hunter Schaefer, FKA Twigs, Kaia Gerber, and several others. However, much like Michaela Coel’s other movie in theaters (The Christophers), Mother Mary is mostly a two-actor showcase of two exceptionally talented leads.
As this is an art film, it definitely will not appeal to all audience members. I truly believe that fans of David Lowery’s previous films will love, appreciate, and marvel at his latest work of art. So far, I consider Mother Mary one of the better films I have seen this year, and hope that Lowery, Hathaway, Coel, the art and production team, and the makeup and costume designers are remembered come awards season.