Anne Hathaway has emerged as Hollywood's latest "It-Girl," captivating audiences with her magnetic charm and undeniable talent. This article delves into Hathaway's rise to stardom, her notable performances, and the unique qualities that have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
The term "It-Girl" was coined by English romance novelist Elinor Glyn, who described it as a magnetic quality that draws people in. This concept gained popularity with the 1927 film It, starring Clara Bow, the original It-Girl. Hollywood has always been on the lookout for this elusive blend of charisma, innocence, and allure that can captivate audiences and sell tickets.
As Hollywood's leading ladies like Cameron Diaz, Drew Barrymore, and Gwyneth Paltrow age out of their prime, a new generation of actresses, including Amy Adams, Michelle Williams, Scarlett Johansson, and Keira Knightley, have stepped up. However, Anne Hathaway has recently emerged as the standout star, capturing the industry's attention.
Anne Hathaway's journey to stardom began when she was cast by Garry Marshall, the director of Pretty Woman, in Disney's The Princess Diaries (2001). Disney was explicitly searching for the next Audrey Hepburn, and Hathaway, with her dark eyes and hair, fit the bill perfectly. The film's success catapulted her into the spotlight.
By 2008, Hathaway had established herself as a leading actress with a series of commercial hits. Her performance in Rachel Getting Married (2008), where she played an addict on furlough from rehab, garnered critical acclaim and even sparked Oscar buzz. This role showcased her depth and versatility as an actress.
Hathaway's personal life also played a role in endearing her to the public. Her Italian boyfriend of four years, Raffaello Follieri, was sentenced to 54 months in prison for fraud. This personal turmoil, combined with her on-screen performances, added a layer of maturity and relatability to her public persona.
Despite the intense media scrutiny, Hathaway has managed to handle the spotlight with grace. Her appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman is a testament to her poise. When grilled about her personal life, she responded with humor and composure, even as Letterman pressed her with uncomfortable questions.
Film historian Janine Basinger notes that a glimpse of real vulnerability can enhance a star's allure. Audiences often relate to stars who seem human and imperfect. Hathaway's public struggles and relatable persona have made her more appealing to fans.
Hollywood has taken note of Hathaway's growing box office appeal. Her price per movie is estimated to be between $5 million and $10 million. Hathaway's imperfections and relatability have made her a perfect fit for the girl-power comedy genre, which has a devoted female fan base.
Hathaway's upcoming projects include Bride Wars, a comedy about best friends who become rival bridezillas, and The Fiance, a film about a woman who wants to break off her engagement. She is also set to star in a sports comedy as an aspiring sportscaster.
As one studio executive noted, Hathaway is one of the few actresses in her twenties whom a studio would confidently cast in a romantic comedy. Her relatability, talent, and growing box office appeal make her a valuable asset in Hollywood.
Anne Hathaway's rise to stardom is a testament to her talent, relatability, and ability to navigate the complexities of fame. As Hollywood's new It-Girl, she continues to captivate audiences and solidify her place in the entertainment industry.
