London, UK – Acclaimed actress Angelina Jolie returns to the spotlight, starring as opera legend Maria Callas in the biopic Maria. The film, written by Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders) and directed by Pablo Larraín, explores the final years of the Greek-American soprano’s life in 1970s Paris.
Jolie’s portrayal of Callas is deeply personal, with her eldest sons, Maddox (23) and Pax (21), serving as production assistants on the set. Speaking to BBC News, Jolie revealed how working alongside her children allowed them to see a more vulnerable side of her:
“They saw the pain I usually hide from them, but they also supported me in beautiful ways. They would bring me tea, hug me, and cheer me on during difficult scenes,” Jolie said.
Jolie’s relationship with her children has been a source of strength throughout her career. Maddox and Pax have worked on her previous projects, including Without Blood, and joined her at the New York premiere of Maria in September.
The role of Callas required Jolie to undertake seven months of opera training, blending her own vocals with original recordings of the singer.
“Opera is incredibly demanding,” Jolie said. “It’s not just about singing; it’s about breathwork, body control, and emotional depth. It was one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done.”
Despite her initial shyness about singing, Jolie embraced the challenge:
“The privilege of being an actor is the opportunity to explore things you’ve never done. This experience pushed me to my limits and beyond.”
While Maria has received mixed reviews, critics have praised Jolie’s performance. Sophia Ciminello of AwardsWatch described her as “spellbinding,” noting her ability to embody Callas with “grace and resolve.” However, others, like Time’s Stephanie Zacharek, were less enthusiastic, citing a lack of Callas’s “imperious charisma.”
The film is the third in Larraín’s trilogy about complex female icons, following his acclaimed works on Jackie Kennedy and Princess Diana.
Hailed as “La Divina”, Maria Callas was one of the most celebrated opera singers of the 20th century. Her career was marked by breathtaking performances, including her iconic 1964 Tosca at Covent Garden. However, vocal decline and personal struggles led to her premature retirement. She spent her later years in isolation, passing away at the age of 53 from a heart attack.
Director Larraín commended Maddox and Pax’s contributions:
“They were very busy and highly professional on set,” he said, adding that their support added a unique dynamic to the production.
For Jolie, the project marks a significant return to acting after years focused on directing and humanitarian work. With whispers of an Oscar nomination, Maria may cement her legacy not only as a Hollywood star but also as a transformative performer.
Maria will debut in UK cinemas on 10 January, offering audiences a chance to witness Jolie’s remarkable portrayal of one of opera’s most iconic figures.
