Angelina Jolie is taking on one of the most challenging roles of her career in the upcoming biopic “Maria,” where she portrays the legendary opera singer Maria Callas. Directed by Pablo Larraín, the film delves deep into the life of Callas, showcasing her extraordinary talent and the tumultuous experiences that shaped her career.
The Challenge of a Lifetime
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Angelina Jolie opened up about the rigorous preparation required for her role as Maria Callas. Jolie, known for her diverse acting roles, admitted that this project pushed her to new limits. “It certainly was the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” Jolie revealed, highlighting the unique challenges of portraying a real person with such a significant legacy.
One of the most demanding aspects of the role was learning to sing opera, a skill that Jolie had to acquire specifically for this film. “Anytime you’re playing a real person whose life has meant so much to people, you think of that individual and you carry that responsibility. On this one, I really felt that every step,” she said, reflecting on the emotional and technical difficulties of the role.
Why Jolie Was Chosen for the Role
Pablo Larraín, the director behind “Maria,” is known for his meticulous approach to biographical films, and he had Angelina Jolie in mind from the beginning when it came to casting Maria Callas. Larraín believed that Jolie possessed the mystery and presence needed to bring Callas’s story to life. “When I thought about the enormous mystery that Maria Callas had, I thought, ‘She [Jolie] can do that,’” Larraín explained. He praised Jolie’s ability to command the screen and embody the complex character of “La Diva.”
Learning the Art of Opera
Jolie’s journey to portraying Maria Callas required her to dive headfirst into the world of opera—a genre she was unfamiliar with. Initially, she underestimated the complexity of opera singing, thinking she could rely on movie magic to make it work. “I was naive enough to think that I was just going to take singing classes and we would somehow do the magic of movies and make it through,” Jolie confessed. However, it soon became clear that opera is an art form that cannot be faked, and Jolie had to commit to intensive training to master it.
With the support and guidance of director Pablo Larraín, Jolie faced the challenge head-on, learning to sing opera and delivering a performance that aims to honor the legacy of Maria Callas. The experience was transformative for Jolie, both personally and professionally.
Honoring Maria Callas’s Legacy
Angelina Jolie’s portrayal of Maria Callas is expected to be a standout performance in her illustrious career. Her dedication to learning opera and her commitment to capturing the essence of Callas reflect her deep respect for the iconic singer’s legacy. As the film’s release approaches, fans and critics alike are looking forward to seeing how Jolie will bring the life and voice of Maria Callas to the screen, offering a new generation a glimpse into the world of one of history’s greatest opera singers.