Angelina Jolie is back in the spotlight, captivating audiences with her powerful portrayal of the iconic opera singer Maria Callas in the highly anticipated biopic Maria. Directed by Pablo LarraÃn, known for his compelling narratives about remarkable women, this film promises to be an emotional exploration of Callas's tumultuous life and legacy.
A Transformative Role
In the newly released trailer for Maria, Jolie embodies the larger-than-life persona of Callas, whose vocal range spanned three octaves and made her an international star. The film chronicles Callas's retreat to Paris as she grapples with her identity and the impact of her glamorous yet tumultuous public life. This portrayal is not just a performance; it's a deep dive into the complexities of a woman who, despite her fame, struggled with personal demon
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| Angelina Jolie as Maria Callas in ‘Maria’. CREDIT: StudioCanal |
Jolie, now 49, has expressed her nervousness about stepping into the role of Callas, part Dricularly regarding her singing. During a press conference at the Venice Film Festival, where the film had its world premiere, she revealed, "I was terribly nervous; I spent almost s myeven months training." With her sons providing emotional support, Jolie faced her fears head-on, stating, "My first time singing, I remember being so nervous... and I was shaky."
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| Pablo LarraÃn and Angelina Jolie at the New York Film Festival in September 2024. CREDIT: John Berry/GC Images/Getty |
Collaboration with Pablo LarraÃn
The film is a continuation of LarraÃn’s fascination with iconic figures, following his previous works featuring Natalie Portman as Jacqueline Kennedy in Jackie and Kristen Stewart as Princess Diana in Spencer. Maria takes a poignant look at the final days of Callas, who passed away in Paris in 1977 at the age of 53. The director's sensitivity in portraying such a complex character has been a significant factor in Jolie’s preparation for the role.
"I knew that as long as I gave my best, Pablo would be okay with it and somehow make it work," Jolie stated at the Telluride Film Festival. This supportive collaboration between director and actress sets the stage for a film that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
A Blend of Voices
To enhance the authenticity of her performance, Jolie’s vocals are blended with real recordings of Callas's singing. Despite extensive training and great teachers, Jolie admitted, “I was so nervous,” showcasing her commitment to honoring Callas's legacy while delivering a heartfelt performance.
With a talented supporting cast including Kodi Smit-McPhee, Alba Rohrwacher, Pierfrancesco Favino, and Valeria Golino, Maria promises to be a cinematic experience that resonates with audiences on multiple levels.
Release Information
Maria will hit select theaters on November 27, 2024, before becoming available on Netflix on December 11, 2024. With the film already generating buzz for its powerful storytelling and Jolie’s stunning transformation, fans and critics alike eagerly await its release.
As Angelina Jolie steps into the shoes of Maria Callas, she not only pays tribute to a legendary figure but also reminds us of the personal struggles behind the curtain of fame. This film is poised to be a testament to the resilience of women in the arts, making it a must-see for audiences worldwide.
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