Angelina Jolie’s ‘Maria’: a haunting performance
Angelina Jolie takes on the monumental role of the legendary opera singer Maria Callas in Pablo Larraín’s critically acclaimed film, “Maria.” This powerful portrayal, which had its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival on August 29th, is now available for audiences to experience on Netflix. Jolie’s performance has already garnered significant attention, earning her a Golden Globe nomination and showcasing her ability to delve into complex, iconic figures. The film delves deep into the latter part of Callas’s life, exploring her struggles with fame, love, and her identity beyond the opera stage. Larraín, known for his intimate and unflinching portraits of historical figures, directs Jolie in a way that highlights the raw emotion and vulnerability of Callas. The film is a profound exploration of an artist grappling with her legacy and the personal cost of unparalleled artistic achievement.
Inside the world of Maria Callas
To truly embody Maria Callas, Angelina Jolie immersed herself in the world of the famed soprano. The film “Maria” centers on the final days of Maria Callas, a period marked by reflection and a profound sense of loss after her public career waned. This era saw Callas living in isolation in Paris, wrestling with her past triumphs and the solitude that followed. The narrative explores her identity, her tumultuous relationships, and the enduring impact of her operatic career on her personal life. Understanding Callas’s artistic choices and her sheer determination to survive in a demanding industry was crucial for Jolie’s interpretation. The film aims to peel back the layers of the public persona to reveal the woman behind the voice, exploring themes of sacrifice, memory, and the search for peace in the twilight of a legendary life.
Mastering Maria: Jolie’s portrayal
Angelina Jolie’s portrayal of Maria Callas in Pablo Larraín’s “Maria” is a testament to her dedication and acting prowess. Her performance required a deep understanding of the opera singer’s performance choices and survival instincts, capturing the essence of a woman who lived a life of extraordinary highs and devastating lows. Jolie was tasked with conveying not just the dramatic weight of Callas’s life story but also the nuances of her artistic expression and her personal struggles. Early reviews and the Golden Globe nomination underscore the power of her performance, which is being hailed as one of her most compelling to date. The film’s focus on Callas’s final years allows Jolie to explore a more introspective and emotionally charged facet of the iconic singer, presenting a portrait that is both haunting and deeply human.
What is Maria about?
“Maria” is a biographical drama that plunges into the final days of the legendary opera singer Maria Callas. The film is not a cradle-to-grave biopic but rather a focused exploration of a specific, poignant period in Callas’s life. It delves into her struggles with isolation, her reflections on a career that defined her, and her search for identity outside the spotlight. The narrative grapples with themes of fame’s aftermath, personal loss, and the enduring power of art. It seeks to understand the woman behind the iconic voice, exploring her triumphs and her sorrows as she navigates the end of her extraordinary journey. The film offers a raw and intimate look at a cultural icon at a crossroads, making it a compelling watch for fans of opera, biography, and powerful drama.
Who’s in the cast of Maria?
Leading the cast of “Maria” is the acclaimed Angelina Jolie, who delivers a transformative performance as the iconic opera singer Maria Callas. While Jolie is the undeniable focal point, the film features a supporting cast that enhances the narrative’s depth. Though specific details about every supporting actor might not be readily available, the focus remains on Jolie’s masterful portrayal and the intimate world she inhabits within the film. The film’s strength lies in its concentrated focus on Callas, allowing Jolie to carry much of the dramatic weight. The ensemble cast, though perhaps less prominently featured in initial discussions, works to create the poignant and often solitary atmosphere of Callas’s final years.
‘Couture’: Jolie’s personal role in fashion week film
Angelina Jolie stars in and produced “Couture,” a film directed by Alice Winocour that offers a unique glimpse into the world of high fashion. This project, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2025, holds a special significance for Jolie, as it is noted as potentially one of her most personal roles. The film’s distinctiveness is further amplified by its groundbreaking filming location; “Couture” is the first fictional film to be granted permission to shoot inside Chanel’s prestigious Paris showroom and atelier. This access provides an unparalleled visual backdrop and an authentic immersion into the meticulous craftsmanship and iconic designs that define the Chanel brand.
Couture review: a personal journey
“Couture” is being hailed as a potentially one of Angelina Jolie’s most personal roles, offering a deeply intimate portrayal that resonates beyond typical cinematic performances. Directed by Alice Winocour, the film delves into the complexities of identity and artistry, set against the glamorous yet demanding backdrop of Paris Fashion Week. The narrative explores the lives of women navigating this high-stakes environment, and Jolie’s involvement as both star and producer suggests a profound connection to the themes and the overall vision of the movie. The film’s ability to capture the essence of personal journeys within the spectacle of fashion is what makes it so compelling, positioning Jolie’s performance as a standout exploration of vulnerability and strength.
Filming inside Chanel’s world
The film “Couture” achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first fictional film to be granted permission to shoot inside Chanel’s iconic Paris showroom and atelier. This unprecedented access offers audiences an unparalleled and authentic look into the inner workings of one of the world’s most revered fashion houses. The meticulously designed spaces, the exquisite craftsmanship, and the very atmosphere of Chanel’s creative hub serve as more than just a setting; they become an integral part of the storytelling. Director Alice Winocour, along with producer and star Angelina Jolie, leveraged this unique opportunity to immerse the audience in the world of haute couture, showcasing the dedication and artistry that goes into creating timeless pieces. This exclusive access elevates “Couture” beyond a typical fashion film, offering a genuine and captivating experience.
Upcoming Angelina Jolie new movie: spy thriller ‘The Initiative’
Angelina Jolie is set to captivate audiences once again with her upcoming role in the new spy thriller, ‘The Initiative’. This highly anticipated project marks a significant return for Jolie to the genre that has seen her excel in past action-packed roles. Universal Pictures is reportedly in talks for distribution, signaling the film’s potential for wide release and significant impact. The project is helmed by acclaimed director Doug Liman, who previously collaborated with Jolie on the successful “Mr. and Mrs. Smith,” promising a dynamic and visually engaging cinematic experience. With a script penned by F. Scott Frazier and produced by Jeff Kirschenbaum for Roth/Kirschenbaum Films, ‘The Initiative’ is poised to be a major addition to Jolie’s impressive filmography, blending slick action with a compelling narrative.
Doug Liman directs Jolie in ‘The Initiative’
The upcoming spy thriller, ‘The Initiative’, will see Angelina Jolie reteaming with director Doug Liman, a collaboration that previously delivered the highly successful action-comedy “Mr. and Mrs. Smith.” This reunion is a significant draw for the new project, as Liman is known for his ability to craft stylish and engaging action sequences while also eliciting strong performances from his actors. His experience with Jolie suggests a comfortable and productive working relationship, which bodes well for the execution of ‘The Initiative.’ Liman’s directorial vision, combined with Jolie’s proven talent in action roles, is expected to create a thrilling and immersive spy narrative. The prospect of seeing this dynamic duo tackle a new spy thriller is generating considerable excitement among fans and industry observers alike.
F. Scott Frazier pens the screenplay
The intricate plot and sharp dialogue for Angelina Jolie’s upcoming spy thriller, ‘The Initiative’, will be brought to life by the pen of F. Scott Frazier. Frazier, known for his work on films like “xXx: Return of Xander Cage,” is expected to deliver a script that is both thrilling and intelligent, fitting for the spy genre. His involvement suggests a focus on compelling action sequences, intricate plot twists, and well-developed characters, all of which are crucial for a successful spy thriller. The collaboration between Frazier’s writing talents and director Doug Liman’s vision, alongside Jolie’s star power, creates a potent combination that promises to make ‘The Initiative’ a standout film in the genre.
Other projects and collaborations
Beyond her starring roles in “Maria” and “Couture,” and the highly anticipated spy thriller “The Initiative,” Angelina Jolie remains a prolific figure in Hollywood, consistently engaging in diverse and compelling projects. Her upcoming slate includes the feature adaptation of Fredrik Backman’s novel ‘Anxious People’, a project that hints at a potential exploration of more character-driven, possibly comedic or dramatic, storytelling. Furthermore, she is attached to the film ‘Without Blood’, marking another significant venture that adds to her ever-expanding and varied filmography. These additional projects underscore Jolie’s commitment to exploring different genres and working with a range of visionary directors, solidifying her status as one of the most versatile and sought-after actresses in the industry today.
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