Angelina Jolie, the celebrated Hollywood actress, recently shared insights into the challenges she faced while portraying the iconic opera singer Maria Callas in her latest film, Maria. Directed by Pablo Larraín, the 2024 biographical drama delves into the life of Callas, one of the most influential opera singers of the 20th century, who passed away at the age of 53.
Jolie, known for her roles in Maleficent and The Tourist, admitted that connecting with Callas’s personality and essence was a demanding yet rewarding experience. “I had to deeply understand her as a person,” Jolie shared during a recent interview. “Balancing her private and public lives was a delicate act that required immense empathy and dedication.”
The actress reflected on the duality of Callas’s life as a performer and individual. “I think there’s a public self and a private self for everyone, but maybe it’s a bit more magnified for someone who is a performer,” Jolie remarked. She explained how she resonated with Callas’s profound commitment to her craft. “I related most to her work. She truly loved what she did and took it very seriously.”
Jolie also shed light on the deep sense of responsibility Callas felt toward her audience, considering it her most significant relationship. Speaking to Digital Spy, Jolie said, “You sometimes feel like the public thinks they know you, and in some ways, they do. But it’s a unique connection that can also feel isolating.” She added, “There’s something about that connection that’s hard to articulate, but I understood her loneliness.”
The role allowed Jolie to explore the complexities of Callas’s life, blending her vulnerability and strength as both an artist and an individual. For Jolie, portraying such a multifaceted character was not just a performance but a personal journey of understanding and empathy.
Maria is a poignant tribute to the late opera legend, capturing her struggles, triumphs, and the profound loneliness that came with her fame. Jolie’s portrayal has already garnered praise for its authenticity and depth, further solidifying her reputation as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and dedicated actors.