The Role That Made Anna Kendrick Cry: The Surprising Moment She Never Expected

Anna Kendrick’s celebrated career spans everything from Broadway musicals to blockbuster films. However, among her many achievements, one role in particular stands out for the depth of emotion it stirred even before the cameras started rolling: Cinderella in the 2014 film adaptation of Into the Woods.

A Dream Role Comes True

Into the Woods, directed by Rob Marshall, was no ordinary movie musical. Adapted from Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s iconic stage production, the film brought together a star-studded cast including Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, and Johnny Depp. For Kendrick, landing the part of Cinderella was a deeply personal milestone. In a 2020 interview, she revealed that upon learning she had secured the role, she “actually cried, like cried.” The reaction was not simply about getting the job; it was about the significance of the project. “It just means so much to me,” Kendrick explained, describing the musical as one she never imagined she’d have the opportunity to be a part of, let alone play Cinderella.

An Unexpected Opportunity

Kendrick’s connection to Into the Woods stemmed from her roots in musical theater. Having earned a Tony nomination at just 12 years old for her performance in High Society, Kendrick had long admired Sondheim’s work. Initially, she thought she might audition for Little Red Riding Hood, a character traditionally played by an adult on stage but cast as a child in the film. The unexpected offer of Cinderella from director Rob Marshall took her by surprise. She later recalled that the role “never even occurred to me that I could play,” making the casting announcement all the more meaningful. The realization that she would step into such an iconic character, whose journey explores the complexity of achieving one’s dreams, proved overwhelming.

A Career-Defining Moment

While Kendrick is no stranger to emotionally charged roles, her response to this particular casting highlights the unique place Into the Woods holds in her heart. The film itself, with its layered storytelling and intricate music, challenged her both as a singer and an actor. It also underscored her ability to stand out in a cast filled with household names.

As Kendrick continues to evolve her career—most recently with her directorial debut Woman of the Hour—this moment from Into the Woods remains a defining chapter. It’s a reminder of the passion she brings to her craft and the profound connection she feels to the stories that resonate most deeply. For an actor known for her humor, wit, and sharp instincts, her emotional reaction to Cinderella serves as a testament to her unwavering love for musical storytelling.