Anne Hathaway's Best Movies: A Look at Her Top Roles

Anne Hathaway's Ascendant Career in Film

Anne Hathaway is undoubtedly having a remarkable year in 2026, starring in not one, but several major film projects. Following the success of the much-anticipated sequel, "The Devil Wears Prada 2", Hathaway also plays a pivotal role in Christopher Nolan’s epic, "The Odyssey". Beyond these, her portfolio further impresses with the upcoming indie film "Mother Mary" and a notable appearance in "Eileen".

Over her two-decade career, Hathaway has showcased her range, transitioning from the charming Disney roles of her early years to complex, multifaceted characters. Below, we delve into her best films, with streaming options available for audiences eager to experience Hathaway's best work.

7. ‘Brokeback Mountain’

This Oscar-winning drama marked one of Hathaway’s first significantly mature roles, allowing her to step away from family-friendly characters. Set against the backdrop of a repressed era, Hathaway portrays Lureen Newsome, who navigates the heart-wrenching fallout of her husband’s hidden affair with another man. Her performance, especially in a devastating phone call with the character Ennis Del Mar, is a testament to her ability to convey intense emotion.
Watch on Hulu

6. ‘The Dark Knight Rises’

In Christopher Nolan's thrilling conclusion to his Batman trilogy, Hathaway shines as Selina Kyle, a character imbued with both seduction and stealth. Despite the film’s heavy tone, Hathaway’s playful take on Catwoman adds much-needed levity, creating dynamic chemistry with Christian Bale’s Batman as they navigate the chaos of Gotham. Her transformation from a charming thief to a contributing hero underscores her versatility.
Watch on HBO Max

5. ‘Ocean’s 8’

This female-led spin-off from the original "Ocean's" franchise sees Hathaway play the self-absorbed movie star Daphne Kluger. Throughout the film, Hathaway cleverly dissects her public image and uses it to her advantage within a clever heist narrative. The film successfully blends humor and suspense as Hathaway’s character surprises the crew with her unexpected savvy.
Watch on HBO Max

4. ‘Mother Mary’

In this evocative film, Hathaway portrays a pop singer attempting to resurrect her career after an onstage mishap. Working with her former friend and costume designer, the narrative explores layers of their complex relationship, with Hathaway delivering heart-stopping musical performances coupled with raw emotional depth. The film is directed by David Lowery, creating a haunting tone that encapsulates the struggles of the celebrity life.
Rent/buy at Apple or Amazon

3. ‘Eileen’

In this gripping psychological thriller, Hathaway plays Rebecca St. John, a character who embodies sophistication and allure against a mundane working-class backdrop. The film delves deep into the obsessive relationship between Rebecca and her co-worker Eileen, portrayed by Thomasin McKenzie. Their entangled emotions unravel into a dark narrative of desire and violence, showcasing Hathaway's range and depth in portraying complex characters.
Rent/buy at Apple or Amazon

2. ‘Colossal’

This innovative science fiction film uses the platform of a monster movie to present a profound narrative about addiction and personal responsibility. Hathaway portrays Gloria, a woman struggling with her inner demons, whose self-destructive behavior inadvertently triggers a giant monster on the other side of the world. The interplay of humor and horror in Hathaway's performance makes for a uniquely engaging viewing experience.
Watch on Netflix

1. ‘Rachel Getting Married’

Hathaway's transformative performance as Kym, a recovering addict, earned her an Oscar nomination and remains a career highlight. This film beautifully contrasts the chaotic energy surrounding a wedding with Kym's personal struggles, capturing the complexity of addiction and familial relationships. Hathaway’s nuanced depiction of joy and pain is palpable, giving the viewers an experience that feels intimate and relatable.
Watch on Netflix