Hollywood icon Angelina Jolie has revealed her initial fear of taking on the role of Maria Callas in the critically acclaimed 2024 film Maria. Directed by Pablo Larraín, the movie delves into the life of the legendary opera singer and has already generated significant Oscar buzz.
Jolie, who portrays the iconic soprano, admitted to feeling deeply anxious about stepping into such a demanding role. “I was terrified,” confessed the 49-year-old actress and humanitarian.
Despite her apprehensions, Jolie credited director Pablo Larraín for his unwavering support throughout the project. “Pablo was very clear that if I gave it my all, he would stand by me and guide me through the process,” she shared.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Jolie explained how Larraín’s approach helped her navigate the challenges. “He structured the shoot so that the most intimate moments were filmed first, while the high-pressure scenes came later. It meant a lot to me that he treated me like a singer and believed I could rise to the occasion.”
To ensure her performance was authentic, Larraín arranged for Jolie to work with a vocal coach throughout the production. “Pablo provided a coach who worked with me every day on set and nightly after filming,” she said.
Jolie, best known for her roles in The Tourist and Maleficent, also praised Larraín’s empathetic and meticulous directorial style. “Pablo has a unique way of studying and shaping moments in his characters’ lives,” she remarked. “His genuine empathy and curiosity make him an exceptional director for a story like this.”
Set in the 1970s, Maria is a biographical drama that chronicles the life of the legendary opera singer. Jolie’s portrayal of Callas adds another dimension to her celebrated acting career, with early reviews lauding her transformation and commitment to the role.
As Jolie takes on this challenging part, her partnership with Larraín has proved pivotal in bringing the life and legacy of Maria Callas to the big screen.
