Angelina Jolie has opened up about her personal connection to Maria Callas, whom she portrays in the forthcoming biopic Maria.
In a recent interview at the AFI Fest premiere, Jolie reflected on shared qualities of “loneliness” and dedication between herself and the late opera icon.
Connecting through hard work and personal sacrifice
Jolie, 49, noted that both she and Callas share a similar work ethic and relentless commitment to their art. She admitted to feeling a sense of kinship with Callas, stating, “I’m an imperfect person, but I work very hard.”
Embracing vulnerability in the role
To prepare for her portrayal, Jolie took months of singing and Italian language lessons to capture the essence of Callas. She explained, “I’m making her pain personal to me,” highlighting the emotional connection she feels to Callas’s struggles and artistry.
A standing ovation and a subtle tribute
During the Venice Film Festival in August, Jolie received an eight-minute standing ovation, which brought her to tears. As a tribute, she wore a black gown adorned with a Cartier brooch that once belonged to Callas, a nod to the singer’s legacy without directly emulating her style.
Release details for ‘Maria’
Directed by Pablo Larraín, Maria will be released in theaters on November 27, with streaming available on Netflix beginning December 11. The film explores Callas’s life, career, and personal challenges, with Jolie’s performance adding a fresh perspective to the iconic soprano’s story.
