In a recent interview with BBC News, Angelina Jolie opened up about the emotional challenges she faced while playing the role of opera icon Maria Callas in her new biopic, "Maria." Known for her typically private demeanor, Jolie admitted that while working alongside her two eldest sons, Maddox and Pax, they were able to witness aspects of her emotional struggles that she usually keeps hidden from them.
Angelina Jolie Reflects on Parenting and Pain While Filming Opera Biopic "Maria"
Angelina Jolie Reflects on Parenting and Pain While Filming Opera Biopic "Maria"
In a candid interview, Angelina Jolie shares her personal experiences during the filming of her new biopic about Maria Callas, revealing the emotional journey that has impacted her relationship with her children.
Jolie shared that Callas’s character reflects a lot of pain, something that resonated with her sons, who were both production assistants on set. “The character [Callas] has a lot of pain, and they have of course seen me go through a lot of things,” Jolie explained. “But they hadn't experienced me expressing a lot of the pain that usually a parent hides from a child." The actress found comfort in their support, reminiscing about how they would hug her or bring her a cup of tea after particularly emotional scenes.
This acting project marks a significant comeback for Jolie, whose last substantial roles were some time ago. Experts speculate that her portrayal may even earn her an Oscar nomination for best actress. As she prepares to embody Callas, a Greek-American soprano, Jolie has taken on the challenge of learning opera singing, a decision she describes as "very physically demanding."
The make-or-break transition into singing involved extensive preparation, with Jolie dedicating approximately seven months to learn the art, including breath control and physicality unique to opera. "It was probably one of the areas in my life that I was hesitant," she stated but added that the experience turned out to be quite enjoyable.
Director Pablo Larraín praised Jolie's sons' professionalism on set, highlighting their contribution to the filming process while also noting that they were incredibly supportive of their mother during her challenging role. Jolie reflected that it is a valuable lesson for her children to witness her struggle and perseverance, stating, “It's always good for your children to watch your mum not do something easily, but swear and fight and fail and have to try again."
"Maria," which explores Callas's later years, aims to honor the legacy of the opera legend while also captivating audiences with a touching portrayal of human vulnerability. As the film gears up for its UK release on January 10, it has already stirred mixed reviews among critics, with some praising Jolie's performance while others expressed less enthusiasm. Despite the critiques, Jolie's commitment to her role and the profound relationship she shares with her children promises to make "Maria" an emotionally resonant film experience.
This acting project marks a significant comeback for Jolie, whose last substantial roles were some time ago. Experts speculate that her portrayal may even earn her an Oscar nomination for best actress. As she prepares to embody Callas, a Greek-American soprano, Jolie has taken on the challenge of learning opera singing, a decision she describes as "very physically demanding."
The make-or-break transition into singing involved extensive preparation, with Jolie dedicating approximately seven months to learn the art, including breath control and physicality unique to opera. "It was probably one of the areas in my life that I was hesitant," she stated but added that the experience turned out to be quite enjoyable.
Director Pablo Larraín praised Jolie's sons' professionalism on set, highlighting their contribution to the filming process while also noting that they were incredibly supportive of their mother during her challenging role. Jolie reflected that it is a valuable lesson for her children to witness her struggle and perseverance, stating, “It's always good for your children to watch your mum not do something easily, but swear and fight and fail and have to try again."
"Maria," which explores Callas's later years, aims to honor the legacy of the opera legend while also captivating audiences with a touching portrayal of human vulnerability. As the film gears up for its UK release on January 10, it has already stirred mixed reviews among critics, with some praising Jolie's performance while others expressed less enthusiasm. Despite the critiques, Jolie's commitment to her role and the profound relationship she shares with her children promises to make "Maria" an emotionally resonant film experience.
