The film “Maria,” available for streaming on Netflix, portrays the reclusive final days of Callas, who passed away from a heart attack at the age of 53 in 1977. The narrative unfolds through flashbacks and interviews with a documentary crew, showcasing the American-Greek soprano’s reflections on her critics, romances, and art. Director Pablo Larraín, known for guiding Natalie Portman and Kristen Stewart to Oscar nominations in biopics of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Princess Diana, is at the helm of this movie, which is anticipated to earn Angelina Jolie her third Oscar nomination for her role as Callas. Larraín’s inspiration for the project stems from his deep-rooted love for opera, influenced by his upbringing attending opera performances with his mother. The film aims to make opera more accessible to wider audiences, inspired by Callas’ own mission. Jolie’s immersive preparation for her role involved learning Italian, studying Callas’ mannerisms, and blending her own vocals with Callas’ recordings. Through her portrayal, Jolie delves into the complex relationship Callas had with her mother, drawing parallels to her own personal experiences with her mother, Marcheline Bertrand, who had a passion for acting. Jolie reflects on the significance of storytelling and human emotion in her work, highlighting the depth of character exploration in the film industry.
In a compelling reflection on the intersection of artistry, motherhood, and self-discovery, acclaimed filmmaker Larraín draws parallels between the transcendent performances of opera diva Maria Callas and the unparalleled athleticism of Olympic gymnast Simone Biles. Larraín marvels at the sheer magnitude of achievements that both women embody, emphasizing the profound dedication required to reach such heights of excellence.
Yet, beneath the surface of technical prowess lies a poignant narrative of personal empowerment and authenticity. Larraín poignantly notes Callas’s journey towards liberation from external pressures and expectations, highlighting her ultimate choice to sing for herself above all else. In doing so, he underscores a universal truth about the importance of self-compassion and the imperative to prioritize one’s own voice amidst the noise of external judgments.
As the conversation unfolds, Larraín’s insights resonate with Hollywood icon Angelina Jolie, who shares a touching anecdote about her late mother’s unwavering support and love. Recalling how her mother would keep Jolie’s films playing on repeat simply to hear her daughter’s voice reverberate through their home, Jolie reflects on the enduring sweetness of that gesture. It is a testament to the enduring bond between a mother and child, underscoring the profound impact of maternal love and encouragement on one’s artistic journey.
Jolie’s own experiences as a mother further inform her perspective, as she navigates the delicate balance between nurturing her children’s passions and fostering their independence. Drawing parallels between her relationship with her children and her mother’s unwavering support, Jolie acknowledges the transformative power of familial love and acceptance in shaping one’s artistic identity.
The narrative takes an unexpected turn as Jolie delves into her recent foray into theater production, which culminated in a Tony Award for her acclaimed work on the Broadway hit “The Outsiders.” Inspired by her daughter Vivienne’s profound connection to the source material, Jolie embarked on a collaborative journey that transcended the boundaries of traditional mother-daughter dynamics.
Vivienne’s active role as a producer assistant on the project speaks volumes about the generational exchange of creative energy and passion within the Jolie-Pitt family. Jolie’s reflections on her shared experience with her daughter underscore the transformative power of art in forging deeper connections and fostering mutual growth.
As the conversation draws to a close, Jolie’s poignant words echo a universal truth about the intrinsic value of hard work and dedication in the pursuit of artistic excellence. In a world where success is often measured by external validation, Jolie’s unwavering commitment to the messy, tough work of creativity serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of authenticity and self-expression.
In a rare glimpse into the personal and professional life of one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures, Angelina Jolie’s reflections offer a nuanced portrait of a woman who continues to navigate the complexities of artistry, motherhood, and self-discovery with grace and resilience.
