Angelina Jolie: First looks at Pablo Larrain's "Maria"

Angelina Jolie debuts at her first singer main role as the actress portrays a legendary diva in Pablo Larrain's upcoming film, "Maria". The last Oscar Nomination for the actress was back in 2008 for the film "Changeling". Since then, Jolie has focused on action films like "Salt" and "Maleficent" and directing projects like "Unbroken". However, Jolie's performance showcases her remarkable talent as she transforms into one of the most succesful opera singers of the 20th century. After its premiere at the Venice Film Festival this weekend, the film earned a 10-minute standing ovation.

Pablo Larraín's biographical psychological drama film about opera singer Maria Callas stars Angelina Jolie in the title role. Valeria Golino plays her sister Yakinthi, and Haluk Bilginer portrays Aristotle Onassis. Steven Knight wrote the screenplay, and Fremantle produced the film, which is the third and final installment in Larraín's trilogy of 20th-century "iconic women." which includes "Jackie" (2016) and "Spencer" (2021), both Oscar nominated. The film takes place in Paris during the 1970s, when Callas was nearing the end of her life.

This is the kind of role Jolie has been waiting for decades, one that fully showcases her dedication to a character. While critics commonly describe Larraín's films as "horror biopics," "Maria" takes a different approach, focusing less on Callas' psychological struggles and more on a fantastical musical style. This refreshing approach aligns with the trend of unconventional musicals like "Emilia Pérez" and "Joker: Folie à Deux" that are expected to be Oscar contenders this year alongside the stars Joaquin Phoenix, Lady Gaga, Zoe Saldana and Angelina Jolie evidently. The film will premiere globally on cinemas February 6th 2025.