Angelina Jolie’s much-anticipated return to the silver screen in Maria has generated a wave of early reviews, with critics praising her portrayal of the iconic opera singer Maria Callas. However, the film itself has garnered a more mixed reception.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Pablo Larraín and written by Academy Award nominee Steven Knight, Maria offers a creative and psychological exploration of Callas’ final days in Paris during the 1970s. Jolie’s performance as the legendary soprano has been lauded for its depth and precision. The Hollywood Reporter described Jolie as “technically precise,” highlighting her ability to capture the essence of Callas, while Variety praised her as “a deadly serious actor of commanding subtlety and power.”
Despite the acclaim for Jolie, the film has faced criticism for its overall impact. Deadline noted that while Jolie is a “magical match for the real diva,” the film “lacks that rasping edge.” The BBC echoed this sentiment, stating that Maria is “witty and beautiful,” but lacks urgency, portraying Callas more as an icon than a human being.
Maria premiered at the Venice Film Festival, where it received an eight-minute standing ovation, leaving Jolie visibly moved. As the film gears up for its release on Netflix, audiences will soon have the chance to experience Jolie’s powerful performance in this intimate portrayal of Maria Callas.
