Angelina Jolie Could Sing Her Way to Second Oscar in Pablo Larrain’s ‘Maria’

As I sat through the North American premiere of Pablo Larraín’s biopic of Maria Callas at the Telluride Film Festival, starring Angelina Jolie as the famed opera singer, I couldn’t help but recall a line from Al Pacino in “The Godfather Part III” (1990): “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in!”

It’s been quite some time since Jolie was a contender for a major acting award—her last nomination was for 2008’s “Changeling.” Since then, she’s focused on starring in blockbuster movies like “Salt” and “Maleficent” and taking on directing projects such as “Unbroken.” However, her undeniable acting talent is back in the spotlight with her portrayal of one of the most influential opera singers of the 20th century. Jolie’s depiction of Maria Callas is transformative and gripping, almost as if she’s been possessed by the spirit of the iconic singer. Larraín’s movie, which explores Callas’s final days, should not only secure Jolie an Oscar nomination but also make her a frontrunner for taking home another Academy Award, adding to her win for 1999’s “Girl, Interrupted.”

This is the kind of role Angelina Jolie has been waiting for over 25 years, one that showcases her full commitment to a character. In the film’s climactic moments, her formidable craft is undeniable: veins throbbing at her temples and her hands arching dramatically, encapsulating the emotional turmoil Callas might have felt in her final moments. It’s an “Oscar clip” moment if there ever was one.

Jolie’s performance resonates more because of the clear parallels between her own life as a globally recognized celebrity and the misunderstood icon she portrays. Hollywood has always adored a comeback story, and Jolie’s journey could mimic that of Renée Zellweger, who swept the 2019 awards season for her portrayal of Judy Garland in “Judy” after a long absence from Oscar recognition following her win for “Cold Mountain” in 2004.

“Maria” is part of Larraín’s trilogy about iconic women, starting with “Jackie” (2016), starring Natalie Portman as Jacqueline Kennedy, and “Spencer” (2021), featuring Kristen Stewart as Princess Diana. “Maria” stands out as the strongest entry, featuring a compelling character study written by Oscar nominee Steven Knight (“Dirty Pretty Things,” 2003). While Larraín’s films are often described as “horror biopics,” “Maria” diverges by adopting a fantastical musical approach, a fresh perspective that coincidentally fits a year where unconventional musicals like “Emilia Pérez” and “Joker: Folie à Deux” are also in Oscar contention.

Though Larraín’s previous movies have earned their leading stars Oscar nominations, they haven’t garnered as much attention in other categories. Netflix, which is distributing “Maria,” aims to change that narrative.

The film’s technical elements are worth noting, particularly the stunning cinematography by Edward Lachman, who introduced the movie at Telluride alongside Jolie and Larraín. Additionally, expect Massimo Cantini Parrini’s evocative costumes, the intricate production and set design by Guy Hendrix Dyas and Sandro Piccarozzi, to be serious contenders in their respective categories. Watch out for its makeup and hairstyling, since recent films that excelled in these areas, like “Poor Things” (2023), “The Whale” (2022), and “The Eyes of Tammy Faye” (2021) also won for lead acting categories.

With Netflix’s strong backing, “Maria” could have more enduring power in the awards race than initially presumed, although mixed reviews need to be addressed. Despite juggling other projects like “Emilia Perez,” “The Piano Lesson,” and “His Three Daughters,” a victory for Jolie is something Netflix is likely to strive for—and possibly achieve.

Source: Variety