As Anne Hathaway announces ‘The Princess Diaries 3’ prequel, we look back at her most unforgettable roles.
Anne Hathaway and Disney have officially announced the highly anticipated third installment of the ‘Princess Diaries’ franchise. Nearly 20 years after the last film's release, Hathaway took to Instagram to share exciting news: she will be reprising her iconic role in a prequel to the beloved series. In a touching video, she joyfully confirmed her return, saying, “Miracles happen.” The original coming-of-age comedy, produced by Walt Disney Pictures, first charmed audiences in 2001, marking Hathaway's breakout role and establishing her as a major star. The sequel, ‘The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement,’ followed in 2004. Now, fans are gearing up for yet another chapter in the series. While we wait, let’s revisit some of Hathaway's most memorable performances.
Directed by Jonathan Demme and starring Anne Hathaway, Rosemarie DeWitt, Bill Irwin, and Debra Winger, ‘Rachel Getting Married’ premiered in select U.S. theaters on October 3, 2008. Hathaway’s portrayal of Kym Buchman, a recovering addict temporarily released from rehab to attend her sister Rachel’s wedding, earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. The film, praised for its raw emotional depth and complex family dynamics, garnered critical acclaim and was featured on numerous ‘Best Films of 2008’ lists.
(Credit: TV Insider)
‘Brokeback Mountain,’ a neo-Western romantic drama directed by Ang Lee, is adapted from Annie Proulx's 1997 short story. The film stars Heath Ledger, Jake Gyllenhaal, Anne Hathaway, and Michelle Williams, and follows the poignant, complex love story between two cowboys, Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist, set against the backdrop of the American West from 1963 to 1983. Garnering both critical acclaim and commercial success, the film grossed over $178 million worldwide on a modest $14 million budget and went on to win numerous awards.
(Credit: Focus Films/Everett Collection)
‘Ella Enchanted’ is a jukebox musical fantasy comedy directed by Tommy O'Haver. Loosely adapted from Gail Carson Levine's 1997 novel, the film stars Anne Hathaway and Hugh Dancy, and offers a satirical take on the fairy tale genre. While the film faced heavy criticism for deviating from the original story and introducing new characters, one aspect audiences universally appreciated was Hathaway’s casting. In the midst of her “princess era,” she was deemed the perfect fit for the role, bringing charm and grace to the character.
(Credit: Miramax/courtesy Everett Collection)
‘Colossal’ is a science fiction black comedy directed and written by Nacho Vigalondo, starring Anne Hathaway, Jason Sudeikis, Dan Stevens, Austin Stowell, and Tim Blake Nelson. The film centers on an unemployed writer, played by Hathaway, who manifests a giant creature in Seoul while grappling with alcoholism and a toxic relationship with a controlling colleague. The film was well-received by critics, who praised its acting, direction, smart screenplay, and thematic depth. Hathaway and Sudeikis were particularly lauded for their standout performances.
(Credit: Cate Cameron/Neon /Courtesy Everett Collection)
‘Eileen’ is a psychological thriller directed by William Oldroyd, adapted from Ottessa Moshfegh’s 2015 novel. The film stars Thomasin McKenzie, Shea Whigham, Marin Ireland, Owen Teague, and Anne Hathaway. Set in 1960s Massachusetts, the plot explores the intriguing relationship between two women working at a juvenile detention center. Hathaway shines as Rebecca Saint John, a character both seductive and slightly unhinged, delivering one of her most playful and daring performances in recent memory. The film was met with positive reviews from critics.
