Angelina Jolie stars in the highly anticipated Pablo Larraín-directed Maria Callas biopic, Maria. Jolie describes the role of portraying the legendary Greek opera singer as the most challenging of her career, as she felt a deep respect and admiration for Callas as both an artist and a woman. To fully embody Callas, Jolie underwent an intensive training process, including singing lessons, Italian classes, and studying opera. Jolie credits director Pablo Larraín for having faith in her abilities and pushing her to deliver a performance that truly captures the essence of Callas.
In addition to focusing on Callas’s artistry, Jolie was committed to portraying Callas’s iconic sense of style on screen. For Callas, fashion was more than just clothing—it was a form of armor that allowed her to navigate the world. Callas worked with some of the greatest designers of her time, including Biki, Christian Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent. Jolie worked closely with costume designer Massimo Cantini Parrini to recreate Callas’s iconic looks for the film. Furthermore, Jolie accessorized her portrayal with pieces from Cartier, as Callas was known for her extensive collection of fine jewelry, including a prized Panthère brooch made in 1971.
Jolie’s dedication to capturing both Callas’s artistry and style paid off, with critics praising her performance as one of the greatest in her career. The film follows Callas in her 1970s twilight years in Paris, highlighting her striking appearance, fraying voice, and tempestuous moods. Jolie’s commitment to the role and her transformative portrayal of Callas have cemented Maria as a standout film at the Venice Film Festival and a potential award contender. Jolie reflects on the journey of taking on such a complex role and expresses gratitude to Larraín for pushing her to her creative limits.
Callas’s impact extends beyond the world of opera and into the realm of fashion, with designers still drawing inspiration from her iconic style. Erdem’s fall 2024 collection featured designs inspired by Callas’s 1953 La Scala production of Medea, complete with gestural swoops of paint across floral gowns reminiscent of Salvatore Fiume’s sets. Callas’s influence on fashion continues to be felt today, as designers look to her bold and expressive style for inspiration. The film Maria not only celebrates Callas’s artistry but also serves as a tribute to her enduring impact on the worlds of opera and fashion. Jolie’s commitment to both aspects of Callas’s life helps bring the legendary singer’s story to life on screen in a captivating and authentic way.
Overall, Jolie’s portrayal of Maria Callas in the biopic Maria is a testament to her dedication to her craft and her ability to fully embody complex and iconic characters. Through intense training and collaboration with costume designers and jewelers, Jolie successfully brings Callas to life on screen, capturing both her artistry and her style with authenticity and depth. The film has garnered critical acclaim for Jolie’s performance and serves as a powerful tribute to the enduring legacy of Maria Callas. Jolie’s transformative portrayal of the legendary opera singer showcases her versatility and depth as an actor, solidifying her status as a talent to watch in the world of filmmaking. As Maria continues to generate buzz and accolades, Jolie stands out as a highlight in a film that celebrates both the artistry and style of a true icon.
