Angelina Jolie made a grand entrance in Venice, Italy for the world premiere of 'Maria,' a film where she portrays the legendary opera singer Maria Callas. Directed by Pablo Larrain, the movie delves into the poignant final days of Callas in 1970s Paris. Netflix secured the U.S. rights for 'Maria' before its Venice debut.
Larrain praised Jolie's ability to embody the essence of Callas effortlessly, citing their shared profound humanity. Jolie, in turn, revealed her connection to Callas through vulnerability and emotional depth.
Jolie dedicated seven months to preparing for the role, undergoing rigorous training with opera singers to master singing techniques and Callas' accent. She described the experience of learning opera as a therapeutic journey that allowed her to express herself fully.
The film features a blend of Callas' original recordings and Jolie's singing, with Jolie bravely performing challenging opera pieces without accompaniment in front of large crowds.
Jolie drew inspiration from Callas' teaching methods, emphasizing discipline and emotional connection to the music. She credited Larrain for creating a supportive environment that enabled her to explore new artistic territories.
Despite not being an opera enthusiast initially, Jolie's evolving taste in music, influenced by life experiences, led her to appreciate classical music and opera more deeply.
Jolie acknowledged parallels between her own life and Callas', particularly in terms of personal growth and artistic fulfillment. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to immerse herself in the creative world once again.
The premiere of 'Maria' at the Venice Film Festival marked a significant moment for Jolie's fans, with Netflix acquiring the U.S. streaming rights, positioning the film as a potential contender for the upcoming awards season.
Larrain encapsulated the essence of the film as a tribute to Callas' extraordinary life, focusing on her legacy as a singer and the profound impact she left on those around her.
