Angelina Jolie Finds Deep Connection With Opera Legend Maria Callas In New Biopic
Angelina Jolie is stepping into the shoes of one of the most iconic opera singers of all time, Maria Callas, in Pablo Larraín’s upcoming biopic Maria. During a press conference on August 29, the actress opened up about the personal connection she feels to the legendary soprano, whose life was marked by both extraordinary talent and deep tragedy.
Jolie, 49, shared that while there are many aspects of Maria’s life she relates to, one trait in particular resonated deeply with her. “I think the way I related to her may be a surprise — [it was] probably the part of her that’s extremely soft and doesn’t have room in the world to be as soft as she truly was, and as emotionally open as she truly was,” Jolie revealed, adding, “I share her vulnerability more than anything.”
Maria will explore the “tumultuous, beautiful, and tragic story of the life of the world’s greatest opera singer, relived and reimagined during her final days in 1970s Paris,” according to the film’s press release.
The biopic, written by Steven Knight and directed by Pablo Larraín, marks another entry in Larraín’s series of female-led biographical dramas, following his previous works Spencer (2021) and Jackie (2016).
Pablo has expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “I am incredibly excited to start production on Maria, which I hope will bring Maria Callas’ remarkable life and work to audiences all around the world, thanks to the magnificent script by Steven Knight, the work of the entire cast and crew, and especially, Angelina’s brilliant work and extraordinary preparation.”
When asked during the Venice press conference about the potential Oscar buzz surrounding her performance, Angelina remained focused on honoring Pablo’s legacy. For her, whether or not she did well would be judged by the reaction from fans of Callas and those who love opera.
“My fear would be to disappoint them. So of course all other things, in my own business, if there’s a response to the work, I’m very grateful.”
Angelina hopes that Maria will not only do justice to Maria’s life but also inspire a new appreciation for opera and bring more people to opera. “To explore it, to let it affect them and move them, ’cause it’s such a powerful art form and so important,” she stated.
Netflix has acquired the rights to Maria, though a release date has not yet been announced. As fans await the film’s debut, Angelina’s portrayal of Maria promises to bring a new depth and understanding to the life of the legendary soprano.
