Model Diaries with Anna Kendrick
What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?
I’m one of those people who needs to eat within 30 seconds of waking up, or I get cranky. So it’s either instant oatmeal or a power bar. Honestly, if I’m not eating by the time I walk to the kitchen, it’s a problem.
Do you have any morning rituals?
I wish I could say something like journaling, but usually, I find the sunniest spot in the house and scroll through social media. I know it’s the opposite of what every expert says to do, but what can I say? I’m a work in progress.
What's one thing you can’t live without?
Fuzzy blankets! If I’m sitting, I need a blanket. The fact that I’m in a chair right now, trying to be professional without one, is shocking. I feel like if I see a fuzzy blanket, I have to buy it. If I’m on a couch without a blanket, I feel naked.
What are your must-have beauty products?
SuperGoop’s tinted sunscreen. I’m a big sunscreen fan, but most foundations with SPF are iffy. This one is better than a lot of foundations I’ve tried.Can I go old school and say Benetint for cheeks? I stopped using it for years, and when I tried it again, I wondered why I ever stopped.
What are three wardrobe pieces you can’t live without?
Sweatsuits and combat boots are my go-to. I also have this cream-colored Star Wars sweatsuit—it’s one of my favorites. And my Rag & Bone combat boots—they’re perfect for travel. Oh, and I’m forever grateful to Gen Z for bringing back wide-leg jeans. Not having to jump around to get out of skinny jeans is life-changing.
What’s your favorite fall fashion trend this season?
I love cozy knit sweaters, especially ones I can pull over my fingers.
Favorite movie of all time?
The Women from 1939.
Which role is closest to your heart?
Playing Cinderella in Into the Woods. It was such an iconic role—I couldn’t even dream of it. When I got the call, I cried in the middle of the street in New York.
How do you prepare for a big role?
It depends on the character. If they’re rigid and uptight, I’m meticulous with my notes. If they’re unpredictable, the process becomes much messier. It’s all about following the character’s essence.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
If it’s not a hell yes, it’s a no.
Go-to karaoke song?
I’ve avoided karaoke because everyone expects me to be good, but one time, I picked a Rihanna song. It didn’t go over well—wrong vibe for karaoke!
What album could you listen to for the rest of your life?
Miseducation of Lauryn Hill—such a classic.
What book would you recommend to everyone?
The History of the Wife. It’s filled with mind-blowing facts, and I ended up reading it with a highlighter in hand.
Favorite place to travel?
Zermatt—It’s the most beautiful place I’ve ever been. Iceland too—it feels like you’ve landed on another planet. Unbelievable landscapes.
What’s your perfect day off?
A pool day with my two best friends and a little buzz from cocktails. It’s the best feeling.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
Probably that I overshare! I’ve been told I reveal way too much in the first conversation.
How do you unwind after filming?
I’m oddly into “legal” YouTube. I watch lawyers give commentary on court cases—it’s slow-paced, but still interesting. It helps me relax.
Favorite comfort food?
Mac and cheese, always. Any kind will do, even Kraft Easy Mac.
Best compliment you’ve ever received?
Someone once told me I was "10% defiant." I took that as a compliment because, as women, we often try to people-please.
Who’s the funniest person you know?
My friend Cody Heller, who showran Jury Duty. She’s hilarious.
You’ve recently directed and starred in Woman of the Hour. What was that like?
It was the most challenging and fulfilling creative experience of my life. It’s based on a true story about a woman in the 1970s and a serial killer, who appeared on the same episode of The Dating Game. The film explores how women navigate the world, often shrinking themselves to survive.
When does it premiere?
October 18th on Netflix.
Any upcoming projects?
We just finished filming the sequel to A Simple Favor, but I haven’t seen it yet.