Harry Cummins
Updated on: October 15, 2024 6:09 am GMT
Angelina Jolie is back in the spotlight with her powerful portrayal of opera legend Maria Callas in the upcoming film “Maria,” directed by Pablo Larraín. With its release date set for November 27 in U.S. theaters and a streaming debut on Netflix on December 11, audiences are eager to see Jolie bring this iconic character to life.
Critical Acclaim and Anticipated Awards
“Maria” has already garnered significant attention, earning an eight-minute standing ovation at its world premiere during the Venice Film Festival. Following the screening, an emotional Jolie wiped away tears, clearly moved by the audience’s response. This reception signals strong potential for the film during this awards season, where it is expected to make a splash.
– The film’s release strategy aims to maximize visibility:
– Theatrical release: Nov. 27
– Netflix streaming debut: Dec. 11
– Premiered at San Francisco Film Festival: Sept. 29
– Will also feature at AFI Film Festival on Oct. 26
Jolie’s performance has reignited speculation about her standing in the awards circuit. Having last been nominated for an Oscar in 2008 for “Changeling,” her embodiment of Callas may very well land her another nomination, possibly for Best Actress. Currently, she leads the Variety Awards Circuit’s best actress charts as a frontrunner for this year’s coveted prize.
Exploring Maria Callas’s Legacy
Larraín’s biographical drama focuses on the later years of Maria Callas’s life, as she retreats to Paris following a tumultuous career defined by both fame and controversy. The film delves deep into themes of identity and legacy, exploring how Callas navigated the complexities of her public and personal life.
This film is part of Larraín’s celebrated trilogy of biographical dramas featuring iconic women, which includes “Jackie” (2016) and “Spencer” (2021). Each film offers a compelling character study, with “Maria” standing out for its nuanced portrayal of the famous soprano.
– Key elements of “Maria”:
– Director: Pablo Larraín
– Screenplay: Steven Knight, Oscar nominee
– Strong focus on personal identity and legacy
– Features historical context, blending fact and emotional storytelling
Jolie’s transformation into Callas has been noted as a significant aspect of the film. Critics have praised her ability to capture the essence of one of the most celebrated opera singers of the 20th century.
What Critics Are Saying
Recent reviews describe Jolie’s performance as transcendent and emotionally rich. While the film features poignant moments, it is essential to note that Jolie does not sing in the film. Instead, the emphasis is placed on her emotive performance, offering a glimpse into Callas’s complex world.
One critic notes, “Jolie emotes a lot but communicates more through her expressions and body language than through song.” This artistic choice allows viewers to connect deeply with Callas’s story without relying on traditional musical performances.
Conclusion: A Film to Watch This Fall
As awards season approaches, “Maria” is a film that commands attention not just for its star power but also for the important story it tells. Angelina Jolie’s portrayal of Maria Callas is poised to captivate audiences and critics alike, bringing a significant chapter of operatic history to life.
With its theatrical release just around the corner and its subsequent streaming debut, “Maria” offers viewers a chance to witness this powerful character study. Whether you’re a fan of Jolie or simply love compelling biographical dramas, this film is sure to be a highlight of the fall viewing season. For those looking to stay up-to-date on the latest in film and entertainment, the anticipation surrounding “Maria” is just the beginning.
To find out more about this exciting movie, take a look at what’s coming soon on Netflix!
