Angelina Jolie, the 49-year-old Hollywood icon known for her powerful roles in films like “Maleficent” and “Girl, Interrupted,” is once again pushing the boundaries of her craft. This time, she has taken on the monumental task of portraying the legendary opera singer Maria Callas in the upcoming biopic “Maria.” The film, directed by Pablo Larraín, premiered on Thursday at the Venice Film Festival, creating significant buzz in the film industry.
In a candid interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Jolie revealed the personal and professional challenges she faced in preparing for the role, particularly when it came to singing—a skill she never thought she possessed. The actress, who has built a career on her versatility and intensity, admitted that singing in “Maria” was an unexpected and daunting task. “It was an out-of-body experience because I don’t sing,” Jolie confessed. “I had somebody in my life who was not kind to me about singing. It was a relationship I was in. And so I just assumed I couldn’t really sing.”
Jolie’s vulnerability in discussing this aspect of her life highlights a side of the actress that many may not have seen before. Despite her years of experience in theater school, where she honed her acting skills, the negative impact of this past relationship left her with lingering self-doubt. “I’d been to theater school, so it was weird that it even had an effect on me. I just kind of adapted to this person’s opinion. So it took me getting past a lot of things to start singing,” she elaborated.
This revelation sheds light on the often-overlooked personal struggles that even the most successful individuals face. For Jolie, overcoming these internal barriers was not just about proving herself as an actress but also about reclaiming her sense of self-worth and confidence. Although she chose not to name the ex-partner who caused her to question her abilities, her words resonate with anyone who has ever doubted themselves due to the influence of others.
Collaborating with Acclaimed Director Pablo Larraín
The project “Maria” is directed by Pablo Larraín, a filmmaker with a reputation for crafting deeply emotional and visually stunning biopics. Larraín is perhaps best known for his work on “Jackie,” which starred Natalie Portman as Jacqueline Kennedy, and “Spencer,” which featured Kristen Stewart as Princess Diana. Both films received critical acclaim, and both Portman and Stewart earned Oscar nominations for their performances.
Working with Larraín was a significant draw for Jolie, who saw the opportunity to delve into the complex life of Maria Callas as a chance to explore new dimensions of her own acting capabilities. However, the pressure to deliver a performance on par with Larraín’s previous leading ladies was intense. I was terribly nervous,” Jolie admitted during a press conference at the Venice Film Festival. “Singing was something I had never done publicly, and to do so in a role like this, where the expectations are so high, was terrifying.”
To prepare for the role, Jolie underwent almost seven months of rigorous vocal training. This extensive preparation was necessary not only to capture the essence of Callas’s powerful voice but also to build the confidence required to perform such demanding material. “My first time singing, I remember being so nervous,” she shared. “My sons were there, and they helped to block the door so that nobody else was coming in. I was shaky… I was frightened to live up to her, and I had not sung in public.”
Jolie’s sons’ presence during her initial singing attempts speaks volumes about the support system she has built around her. It is a reminder that even those who are perceived as strong and self-assured sometimes need the comfort and protection of loved ones. This moment of vulnerability, shared in a public forum, adds depth to Jolie’s already complex persona, showing that even global superstars can struggle with self-doubt and insecurity.
Receiving Oscar Buzz and Emotional Reactions at Venice
Despite her initial fears, Jolie’s portrayal of Maria Callas has already garnered significant praise. At the Venice Film Festival, the film received a standing ovation that reportedly lasted for eight minutes. Jolie, who is no stranger to accolades, having won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Girl, Interrupted,” was visibly moved by the audience’s reaction. A video shared by Variety captured the actress tearing up during the ovation, a testament to the emotional weight of the moment.
The early Oscar buzz surrounding her performance is both a validation of her hard work and a source of additional pressure. When asked about the possibility of receiving another Oscar nomination during the Venice press conference, Jolie remained humble, emphasizing that her primary concern was doing justice to the legacy of Maria Callas and the art of opera. “My fear would be to disappoint them,” she said, referring to the dedicated fans of Callas and the broader opera community. “I didn’t want to do a disservice to this woman.”
Jolie’s comment reflects a deep respect for the cultural and historical significance of Maria Callas, whose influence on the world of opera is unparalleled. The challenge of portraying such an iconic figure is immense, and Jolie’s acknowledgment of the responsibility she feels underscores her commitment to the role. It’s clear that for Jolie, this project is about more than just adding another accolade to her resume—it’s about honoring the life and legacy of a woman who left an indelible mark on the world.
Jolie’s Future Plans: Life Beyond Hollywood
In addition to discussing her role in “Maria,” Jolie also opened up about her future plans, particularly regarding her life in Los Angeles. The actress, who is a mother to six children, hinted that she plans to leave the city once her children are older. “I am here because I have to be here from a divorce, but as soon as they’re 18, I’ll be able to leave,” she revealed.
Jolie’s comments reflect her ongoing desire to protect her family’s privacy and well-being. As someone who has spent much of her life in the public eye, Jolie is acutely aware of the challenges that come with fame, particularly when it comes to raising children. “When you have a big family, you want them to have privacy, peace, safety. I have a house now to raise my children, but sometimes this place can be… that humanity that I found across the world is not what I grew up with here,” she said.
This statement provides insight into Jolie’s evolving relationship with fame and the entertainment industry. While Los Angeles has been her home for many years, it is clear that her experiences traveling the world and engaging in humanitarian work have given her a different perspective on what it means to live a fulfilling life. Her desire to leave the city once her children are grown suggests that she is looking forward to a future where she can focus on her passions and interests outside of Hollywood.
A New Chapter for Angelina Jolie
Angelina Jolie’s portrayal of Maria Callas in the biopic “Maria” marks a significant turning point in her career. It is a role that has forced her to confront her insecurities and push herself in ways she never thought possible. Through her candid reflections on the challenges she faced in preparing for the role, Jolie has offered fans a rare glimpse into her personal struggles and triumphs.
As she continues to navigate her career and personal life, Jolie remains a figure of resilience and determination. Whether or not she receives another Oscar nomination for her performance, it is clear that Jolie’s portrayal of Maria Callas will be remembered as one of the most transformative roles of her career. And as she looks toward the future, both in her professional and personal life, there is no doubt that Angelina Jolie will continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
