Anne Hathaway has built a remarkable and varied filmography over more than two decades, moving seamlessly among comedy, drama, musical, and sci-fi. Her career spans from charming teen roles to gritty character work, earning her both box-office success and critical honors. Below are 10 must-watch Anne Hathaway movies that best showcase her versatility and talent.
The Princess Diaries (2001) – Hathaway’s Breakout Role
The Princess Diaries was Anne Hathaway’s first major film role, playing Mia Thermopolis, a shy teenager who learns she is heir to the European principality of Genovia. Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2
The movie was a surprise hit: made on a modest $26 million budget, it grossed $165.3 million worldwide. Wikipedia The role firmly established Hathaway as a bankable young lead. Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2
Because of its importance in launching her “Anne Hathaway movies” era, it remains a beloved staple for fans and newcomers alike.
Brokeback Mountain (2005) – Taking On Mature Terrain
In Brokeback Mountain, Hathaway plays Lureen Newsome, the wife of Heath Ledger’s character. Though not a lead, her presence adds emotional grounding to the story. This role demonstrated her willingness to take riskier material outside of “safe” territories. Gold Derby+1
The film was also critically acclaimed for its bold exploration of forbidden love and societal expectations, making it a landmark in many actors’ filmographies.
The Devil Wears Prada (2006) – Comedy & Career Turning Point
One of the most commercially successful Anne Hathaway movies, The Devil Wears Prada cast her as Andrea “Andy” Sachs, a naive assistant in the fashion publishing world, opposite Meryl Streep.
This film allowed Hathaway to demonstrate both comedic timing and growth as a leading character navigating a harsh professional environment. While I don’t have a direct citation for its box-office here, it remains widely regarded as one of her signature roles in pop culture and fashion circles.
Rachel Getting Married (2008) – A Dramatic Pivot and Oscar Nod
In Rachel Getting Married, Hathaway plays Kym, a recovering addict returning home for her sister’s wedding.
Her raw, vulnerable performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Golden Globes+3Wikipedia+3IMDb+3 Critics praised the film’s naturalistic style and Hathaway’s emotional authenticity. Wikipedia+2FilmAffinity+2
This is one of her most critically lauded performance-heavy dramatic roles among Anne Hathaway movies.
Les Misérables (2012) – Musical Triumph and Oscar Win
Hathaway’s rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” as Fantine in Les Misérables is among her most iconic moments. Wikipedia+3People.com+3The Hollywood Reporter+3
For that role, she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Wikipedia+2The Hollywood Reporter+2 Reviewers applauded her vulnerability, grief, and vocal restraint in the performance. People.com+2The Hollywood Reporter+2
This film remains a highlight among Anne Hathaway movies for its emotional resonance and musical power.
Interstellar (2014) – Sci-Fi Depth and Emotional Weight
In Interstellar, Hathaway plays Dr. Amelia Brand, a scientist on a mission to find a new home for humanity alongside Matthew McConaughey’s character.
Her performance helps ground the high-concept sci-fi with emotional stakes of love, sacrifice, and loss. Director Christopher Nolan cast her in what Hathaway later called “one of the best films I’ve been a part of.” EW.com+1
This entry into the Nolan canon is one of her more daring and high-profile roles in the sci-fi genre.
The Intern (2015) – Warm, Feel-Good Dynamic
In The Intern, Hathaway portrays Jules Ostin, a CEO balancing the pressures of business and personal life. Robert De Niro plays her older intern, forming a unique cross-generational friendship. Rotten Tomatoes
The film’s warm tone and modern workplace setting show Hathaway’s ability to carry lighter fare while maintaining emotional nuance. Rotten Tomatoes
Colossal (2016) – Bold and Unconventional
Colossal blends comedy, drama, and sci-fi in an unexpected way. Hathaway plays Gloria, who realizes she’s mysteriously linked to a giant monster wreaking havoc in South Korea. Fussy Tongue+3IMDb+3Rotten Tomatoes+3
Critics described her performance as quirky, bold, and one that plays into darker aspects of identity and responsibility. Rotten Tomatoes+4The Ringer+4Jon On Film+4
It stands out among Anne Hathaway movies as one of her most surprising and layered.
Ocean’s 8 (2018) – Glam and Ensemble Heist Fun
In Ocean’s 8, Hathaway plays Daphne Kluger, a celebrity who becomes a key pawn in a high-stakes heist. Wikipedia+4Glamour+4The Washington Post+4
Reviewers singled out her performance as one of the film’s brightest elements, with strong comedic energy and screen presence. Vulture Her ability to shine in an ensemble cast adds to its appeal among Anne Hathaway movies.
The Hustle (2019) – Comedy Capers with Flair
In The Hustle, Hathaway co-stars with Rebel Wilson as classy and cunning con artists in a comedic adventure.
Her role as Josephine Chesterfield highlights her comedic timing and chemistry in lighter, twisty fare. While it may not be her most critically acclaimed film, it adds to the diversity of her filmography in the realm of fun capers.
Honorable Mentions & Emerging Works
While the list above captures many of her memorable performances, other Anne Hathaway movies deserve attention:
- Ella Enchanted — a fairy-tale fantasy showing her early willingness to take whimsical roles.
- The Dark Knight Rises — in which she played Catwoman, garnering attention for her physical and stunt work.
- Upcoming: The Princess Diaries 3 is currently in development with Hathaway confirmed to return. People.com+1
Conclusion: A Definitive Anne Hathaway Movies Watchlist
From The Princess Diaries launching her career to Les Misérables earning her an Oscar, Anne Hathaway’s body of work is rich and varied. Whether you prefer emotional dramas, musicals, or entertaining ensemble films, these top 10 must-watch Anne Hathaway movies provide a great sampling of her talent.