Angelina Jolie’s emotional response to the standing ovation for her performance in the film Maria at the Venice Film Festival has garnered significant attention. The film, which marks a captivating portrayal of the legendary opera singer Maria Callas, has resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.

The Standing Ovation and Angelina’s Tears

The standing ovation, lasting for a remarkable eight minutes, underscored the profound impact of Jolie’s performance as Maria Callas. The audience’s enthusiastic response was met with visible emotion from Jolie herself, as tears welled up in her eyes. Her co-star, Pierfrancesco Favino, was quick to offer comfort, providing a reassuring presence as Jolie briefly leaned on his shoulder. This moment, captured on camera and widely shared on social media, showcased the raw emotion behind Jolie’s dedication to the role. The applause not only celebrated the film itself but also highlighted the depth of Jolie’s embodiment of the iconic figure.

A Testament to Emotional Investment

Jolie’s tears are a testament to the profound emotional investment she poured into her portrayal of Maria Callas. This wasn’t merely an acting exercise for her; it was a deep immersion into the life and legacy of a legend. Her emotional vulnerability before the cheering crowd was a genuine reflection of her connection to the role, highlighting the intense connection she formed with the character during the filming process.

Maria: A Cinematic Journey Into Callas’s Final Days

Maria, directed by Pablo Larraín, delves into the final week of Maria Callas’s life in 1977, painting a poignant portrait of her loneliness and decline in Paris. The film focuses on her solitary existence, offering a glimpse into the inner world of a once-renowned opera singer facing the tragic loss of her voice. The story unfolds through the eyes of her only companions: the butler, played by Pierfrancesco Favino, and the housemaid, portrayed by Alba Rohrwacher, who witness her deteriorating health with growing concern.

Jolie’s Connection to Callas

In an interview with The Associated Press, Jolie spoke candidly about the deep connection she formed with Maria Callas, emphasizing the profound impact of embodying the role: “I felt such a privilege to feel like I got to know this woman and got to be inside her skin for a moment. I really care for her deeply. I think I’ll carry that like a friend.” She went on to describe her transformation into Callas, sharing how her immersion into the role led to a personal connection: “When I put her big glasses on, and her Greek hair and I sat in my little robe as an older lady, I felt a (Maria) that felt like the private [Maria] that the world didn’t know. And I connected to her first and, and kind of loved her.”

Pablo Larraín’s Trilogy of Cinematic Portraits

Maria is the third installment in Larraín’s compelling trilogy of films about iconic women. Following Spencer, which premiered at Venice in 2021, and Jackie from 2016, Maria continues the exploration of complex and powerful female figures. Each film delves into a pivotal period in the life of a celebrated woman, offering insightful and captivating perspectives.

A Cinematic Celebration of Women’s Stories

Larraín’s trilogy reflects a deep appreciation for the lives and legacies of extraordinary women. Each film is more than just a biographical recounting; it’s a celebration of their struggles, triumphs, and multifaceted complexities. Through his directorial lens, Larraín provides intimate glimpses into the inner worlds of these iconic individuals, offering unique perspectives on their personal journeys.

A Film Worth Anticipating

While the release date for Maria on Netflix is yet to be confirmed, the anticipation for this film is undoubtedly growing. The standing ovation at Venice, coupled with Angelina Jolie’s heartfelt emotional response and the overall acclaim for Larraín’s artistic vision, suggests Maria is a cinematic endeavor that will surely captivate audiences with its evocative story and impactful performances.

Takeaways

• Angelina Jolie’s tearful reaction to the standing ovation highlights her deep connection with the character of Maria Callas in the film Maria.
• Maria is the third film in Pablo Larraín’s trilogy of films exploring iconic women’s lives, following Spencer and Jackie.
• The film tells the story of the last week of Maria Callas’s life, focusing on her loneliness and the loss of her voice.
• Jolie’s transformative performance is deeply resonant and evokes a sense of genuine connection to the character.
• The film’s release date on Netflix is not yet known but the positive reception at the Venice Film Festival suggests that it will be a highly anticipated and engaging cinematic experience.