Omnia Essawy
Biography
Anne Hathaway is a Hollywood leading lady who has achieved remarkable success with her tremendous acting skills and captivating on-screen presence. She catapulted into the elite A-list of Hollywood after winning the 2012 Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, thanks to her unforgettable performance in Les Misérables. Her memorable performances have also graced films such as The Princess Diaries, Ella Enchanted, Love & Other Drugs, and the iconic fashion comedy The Devil Wears Prada.
From her feature film debut in 2001’s The Princess Diaries to today, Anne Hathaway has achieved incredible success as an actor. Her performances have received widespread adulation, and in recognition, she’s been awarded several accolades, including remarkable mentions like an Academy Award, British Academy Film Award, and Golden Globe Award. Anyone who has witnessed her work understands why the industry reveres her so highly.
Anne Hathaway not only shines in her successful acting career but also dedicates herself to meaningful charitable causes. She is a passionate ambassador for UNICEF and actively contributes through organisations such as The Creative Coalition and Step Up Women’s Network.
Since originating beloved characters in hit films, Anne Hathaway has become one of the most recognised and acclaimed actors of her generation. Drawing fans from around the globe with every role she takes on, this dynamic star shines both on-screen and off, using her platform to directly impact communities through philanthropic work.
Childhood
Anne Jacqueline Hathaway, born in Brooklyn on 12 November 1982 to Kate McCauley and Gerald T. Hathaway, is a multi-ethnic dynamo of Irish, French, English, and German descent. A naturally talented student as a child at Millburn Public School, she embraced the opportunities available there: from singing with school choirs to playing soccer or softball, among other extracurriculars.
Anne developed a keen interest in acting at the tender age of eleven, enrolling on The Barrow Group Theatre Company classes. This passion for theatre led to her first professional role when she was cast as a series regular on Get Real with Fox Television. Whilst attending Millburn High School, Anne also starred in multiple plays, further honing her craft and cementing the foundation of what would eventually become an esteemed career!
Anne’s destiny for stardom was clear from an early age. Despite their doubts, her parents encouraged her to pursue show business and take risks. That support couldn’t have been more important, considering the wide range of iconic performances she delivered, including the unforgettable roles in The Princess Diaries (2001), The Devil Wears Prada (2006), and Les Miserables (2012).
Career
Anne’s remarkable performances have captivated audiences across the world for over two decades, and she is continuing to push boundaries with each new project.
Her career began at 16 when she appeared in the popular show Get Real. Since then, Anne Hathaway has paved her way to becoming one of the most celebrated actresses of her generation. Who can forget her iconic breakthrough performance in The Princess Diaries or her Oscar-winning role in Les Misérables? She is a true talent who continues to blow us away with her stunning portrayals of complex characters.
But Anne Hathaway is more than just a movie star. She is a woman who has worked tirelessly to hone her craft and perfect her art as she trained with the renowned Barrow Group in New York. Her outstanding performances have earned her multiple awards, including Golden Globe and Academy Award nominations.
And the best is yet to come! Fans can look forward to Hathaway’s upcoming releases, such as She Came To Me and Mother’s Instinct. Both films promise to showcase her exceptional talent and range as an actress and a Hollywood powerhouse.
Family & Personal Life
Anne’s mother taught her to act while her father practised law. During high school, Hathaway was a multitasking pro, regularly flitting between student council, drama club, and voice and dance classes at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.
She later pursued English Literature at Vassar College before finally transferring to NYU’s Gallatin School of Individualised Study.
With love, there are ups and downs; Hathaway learnt this the hard way when she started dating Raffaello Follieri in 2004. The Italian real estate developer was later convicted of fraud and money laundering.
But as they say, all’s well that ends well. In 2012, Hathaway tied the knot with actor Adam Shulman, with whom she has two boys: the beautiful Jonathan Rosebanks Shulman, quite the little charmer born in 2016, and the newest addition to the Shulman family, Jack, who arrived on 24 November 2019.
Filmography
Anne Hathaway, the academy award-winning actress, has enthralled her audiences ever since her first breakthrough performance back in the early 2000s. Since then, Anne has starred in a lot of films that span a range of genres, including sci-fi, drama, and romantic comedies. Through her astounding range and incredible ability to bring each character she embodies to life, she has become one of Hollywood’s most desirable actresses. So without further ado, let us acquaint ourselves with some of her most captivating films that have helped shape her illustrious career journey and cemented her place as a Hollywood icon!
The Princess Diaries (2001)
The Princess Diaries, a movie that debuted in 2001, is not only one of the most celebrated Anne Hathaway flicks but also a defining moment in her acting career. The plot follows the tale of Mia Thermopolis, a timid 15-year-old San Franciscan girl who suddenly discovers that she is of royal blood and is heir to the throne of Genovia. Mia, with the help of her grandmother Clarisse Renaldi (played by the legendary Julie Andrews), embarks on a thrilling journey as she learns to transition from a regular teenage girl to a princess.
This movie was an instant hit, with rave reviews from audiences and critics alike. Mia’s story is an embodiment of the all-important message of self-confidence and discovering your inner self. The film is a lighthearted affair that balances humour with a positive outlook on life. Hathaway’s exceptional performance as Mia is praised, with many acknowledging her natural charisma and charm.
The movie also hosts an impressive cast, including Julie Andrews, Hector Elizondo, Heather Matarazzo, Mandy Moore, Robert Schwartzman, Caroline Goodall, and more. Once you experience The Princess Diaries, you’ll be eager to follow Mia’s journey of self-discovery time and again!
Ella Enchanted (2004)
Are you ready to be enchanted? Anne Hathaway shines in one of her most popular films yet, Ella Enchanted, directed by Tommy O’Haver and released in 2004. This fantasy comedy musical is inspired by Gail Carson Levine’s novel of the same name and follows Ella, who is cursed to be obedient but must keep her secret hidden to protect the prince of her land, her friend for whom she has feelings. The movie lets you join Ella on her remarkable journey to break free from the curse and discover who she truly is.
Critics and audiences alike couldn’t get enough of this film, praising Hathaway’s performance and the movie’s delightful tone and visuals. And with multiple award nominations, including an Academy Award nod for “Somebody to Love,” Ella Enchanted is a must-see for fantasy genre fans.
The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Join Andy Sachs on an extraordinary journey from a fledgling graduate to a fashion powerhouse in the Hollywood classic; The Devil Wears Prada! This 2006 movie, directed by David Frankel and produced by Wendy Finerman, is a fan-favourite for a reason. At the heart of the film is Anne Hathaway’s standout performance. Her interpretation of the assistant to Miranda Priestly (portrayed by the iconic Meryl Streep), the uncompromising editor-in-chief of a high fashion magazine, earned the actress widespread popularity as well as critical acclaim.
The movie presents Andy’s fascinating path through the fashion industry: scarves, boots, belts, and all. Her struggle with low pay, long hours, and impossible demands is a rollercoaster, but as her confidence blossoms, she rises to the top. The Devil Wears Prada is engaging, witty, and fun, and it showcases the highs and lows of fashion with energy and style.
Becoming Jane (2007)
Step back in time to 1795 and immerse yourself in the world of a young Jane Austen (Anne Hathaway) and her enthralling love affair with ambitious lawyer Tom Lefroy (James McAvoy). Dancing through themes of class and commerce, storybook romance ensues.
With standout performances from Hathaway and a star-studded supporting cast, including Julian Fellowes, Maggie Smith, and James Cromwell, Becoming Jane is a “coming of age” biography that encapsulates the essence of Austen’s endearing novels. You won’t be able to resist the witty dialogue, charming characters, and captivating storyline that make Becoming Jane one of the most beloved romantic period dramas to date.
Rachel Getting Married (2008)
Released in 2008, Rachel Getting Married stands out as a gem in Anne Hathaway’s movie career. The movie revolves around Kym (played to perfection by Hathaway), a troubled younger sister to Rachel, who is about to be married. The plot follows Kym’s journey as she navigates through a rollercoaster of family dynamics, emotions, and relationships. Hathaway’s portrayal of Kym in Rachel Getting Married did more than steal viewers’ hearts; it also won her over a dozen of awards wins and nominations, including nominations for an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for Best Actress.
The movie doesn’t shy away from exploring deep-rooted family dynamics and intentionally uses a naturalistic documentary style to add another layer of emotional depth. Undoubtedly one of the movie’s greatest strengths is its aggressive sense of humour, which creates an engaging and enjoyable watch. Directed by the late Jonathan Demme, the film also features fantastic performances by Rosemarie DeWitt, Bill Irwin and Debra Winger. The combination of a brilliant cast and an engaging plotline makes Rachel Getting Married a must-watch.
Rio (2011)
Released in 2011, Rio is a spectacular American computer-animated musical comedy adventure movie. It was produced by 20th Century Fox Animation and Blue Sky Studios and directed by Carlos Saldanha; it follows a blue macaw named Blu who is taken to Rio de Janeiro on a mission to mate with another macaw. However, Blu meets Jewel along the way; a fiercely independent female macaw brought to life by Anne Hathaway’s voice, and together they form an unbreakable bond of friendship and self-awareness while overcoming various obstacles, including being kidnapped by animal smugglers.
In addition to Hathaway, Rio features a star-studded cast, including Jesse Eisenberg, Jamie Foxx, and Will.i.am. Deemed a cinematic masterpiece, Rio was well-received by audiences of all ages for its stunning visuals and catchy soundtrack that showcases the beauty of Rio de Janeiro, with chart-topping hits like “Hot Wings” and “Real in Rio”. Impressively, it was nominated for several awards, including Best Animated Feature Film at the 84th Academy Awards. Rio is an excellent source of delight, offering a heartwarming story celebrating the power of friendship and embracing the vibrancy of life.
Les Miserables (2012)
Let’s dive into one of Anne Hathaway’s most unforgettable movie roles yet: Fantine in Les Misérables! Standing tall among a cast of brilliant actors, including Hugh Jackman and Russell Crowe, Hathaway’s performance as Fantine was no less than phenomenal. Anne’s powerful rendition of “I Dreamed A Dream” brought tears to our eyes, and she portrayed Fantine’s character arc with absolute perfection, despite only appearing on screen for a mere 15 minutes.
But wait, here’s an incredible fact that might surprise you; Hathaway had to shed an unbelievable 25 pounds for this role! Although the weight loss regime made her ill, the actress’ commitment to staying true to her craft and to Fantine’s character is awe-inspiring, to say the least. As expected, though, every great feat comes with its share of detractors, even for an Oscar-winning actress like Hathaway. Nevertheless, she handled the hate with poise, putting an end to negativity like the superstar that she is!
Fantine’s journey, brought to life by Hathaway’s stirring performance, solidified Les Misérables as a cultural phenomenon. And as long as people remember this timeless classic, they’ll never forget Hathaway’s portrayal of this legendary character.
Interstellar (2014)
Anne Hathaway gave a captivating performance in Interstellar, one of her best and most iconic roles to date. The 2014 sci-fi picture, directed by the brilliant Christopher Nolan, boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Matthew McConaughey, Jessica Chastain, and Michael Caine.
In a dystopian future where life on Earth is impossible, Hathaway portrays Dr Brand with strength and independence, leading a team of scientists and piloting a spacecraft to find humanity a new home. Her character is an exceptional example of a strong female lead, and Hathaway’s portrayal is nothing short of masterful.
However, it wasn’t just Hathaway’s acting that deserves recognition; she also faced treacherous weather conditions while filming in Iceland, suffering from hypothermia and even coming close to death. But despite these hardships, Hathaway persevered and delivered a performance that earned her critical acclaim and admiration from fans all over the globe.
The Intern (2015)
The Intern, a blockbuster Anne Hathaway movie, will leave your heart full and your cheeks sore from laughing. Directed, written, and produced by the amazing Nancy Meyers, the 2015 American buddy comedy-drama film stars not one but two powerhouses: Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway. The movie follows Ben Whittaker, a 70-year-old widower who decides to take on an internship at a cutting-edge fashion site founded and run by none other than the fantastic Jules Ostin. This amusing and inspiring workplace comedy is a roller coaster of emotions, with Ben’s valuable expertise and Jules’s sharp instincts leading to a beautiful friendship and a triumph of teamwork.
Hathaway’s outstanding performance in The Intern received rave reviews from critics, highlighting her ability to bring out the best in De Niro’s character. The Intern also went on to become a huge commercial success, raking in a $194 million worldwide box-office gross against its $35 million budget. Don’t miss the chance to experience this delightful and unforgettable ride!
It’s crystal clear that Anne Hathaway is a real-life superstar who has impressed millions with her spellbinding performances. She has showcased her impeccable craft in countless films and performances, acting as canvases for her undeniable talent. This remarkable woman is an inspiration not only to aspiring artists but also to working mothers, proving that you can truly have it all. Anne Hathaway’s electrifying presence in the entertainment industry has made a lasting impact, and it’s almost certain that we’ll continue to feel it for years to come.