In the world of cinema, few names command attention like Angelina Jolie and Pablo Larraín. Jolie, a seasoned actress known for her intense dedication to roles, teams up with Larraín, the mastermind behind critically acclaimed biopics like “Spencer” and “Jackie.” Their latest collaboration, “Maria,” offers a poignant portrayal of the life and final days of Maria Callas, the world-renowned opera singer.
The buzz around “Maria” is already palpable, especially with its upcoming premiere at the Venice Film Festival. Vanity Fair's recent first look at the film highlights Jolie's deep commitment to embodying Callas. Reportedly, Jolie underwent six months of rigorous preparation to perfect the opera icon's posture, breathing, and even her distinct accent. This dedication to her craft is reflected in early reviews, which describe her performance as “staggering,” “heartbreaking,” and “imposing.”
Larraín's film, which features a screenplay by Steven Knight (“Spencer,” “Peaky Blinders”), promises a visually striking narrative. The film will alternate between vibrant color in the present and evocative black-and-white flashbacks, a technique brought to life by Todd Haynes' trusted cinematographer, Ed Lachman. This visual approach mirrors the duality of Callas' life—her public grandeur contrasted with private turmoil.
“Maria” is also set to complete Larraín's trilogy of biopics centered on iconic women, following “Jackie” and “Spencer,” both of which led to Oscar nominations for their lead actresses, Natalie Portman and Kristen Stewart, respectively. Given this history, it's no wonder that Jolie's portrayal is already generating Oscar buzz.
Joining Jolie are Pierfrancesco Favino, Alba Rohrwacher, and Kodi Smit-McPhee, each contributing to the film's potential success. As “Maria” prepares to make its rounds at Venice, Telluride, and the New York Film Festival, it remains without U.S. distribution—a fact that may change quickly if the film garners the acclaim many are predicting.
Whether or not “Maria” leads Jolie to another Oscar nomination, her performance is poised to leave a lasting impression. For fans of Larraín's work and those who appreciate the nuances of biographical storytelling, “Maria” is a film not to be missed.
