Kaylah Walton
Angelina Jolie was surprised by the deep emotions she uncovered while exploring the life of Maria Callas. In a recent conversation, she reflected on how our bodies hold onto experiences and feelings throughout life, noting that stress and sadness can affect our physical being.
“Many of us do not realize how we store experiences physically,” Jolie shared. “We can protect ourselves by holding tension in our bodies, especially in our stomachs and chests, affecting how we breathe.”.
“The early weeks were the toughest, as I had to learn to open up and breathe properly,” Jolie admitted, realizing how much she had suppressed.
In Pablo Larraín‘s film “Maria,” released in theaters and soon on Netflix, Jolie gives one of her most powerful performances in recent years. After directing for a while and caring for her six children, she feels energized to return to acting.
“My choices were driven by practicality and I didn’t work much in the last eight years,” Jolie explained. “I felt exhausted during that time.”
With her youngest children now older, the actress is reclaiming her place in the spotlight with “Maria,” potentially leading to her third Oscar nomination, after winning in 2000 for “Girl, Interrupted.” This film could become the signature role in her extensive legacy.
Her eldest sons, Maddox and Pax, were part of the film’s production, witnessing a side of their mother they had never experienced before.
“Although they have seen me sad, they’ve never seen me express such emotion in front of them,” Jolie said about the feelings the role invoked. “It became a moment to understand the complexities of the pain I carry.”
While she refrained from delving deep into her personal struggles, it’s evident that her ongoing divorce from Brad Pitt plays a significant role.
A judge recently allowed Pitt’s claim against Jolie, concerning the Château Miraval winery, to progress. In a ruling, it was noted that Pitt must provide documents related to her legal team’s accusations, which he denies.
In light of recent political events, including the U.S. presidential election, Jolie chose to focus on her humanitarian work rather than politics. “I believe in the importance of global storytelling and listening to diverse voices,” she remarked.
Jolie’s ability to navigate public life adds to her suitability for the part of Callas. The film captures the final days of the celebrated soprano, who, having lost her voice, struggles with her identity. A mentor suggests she reconnect with who she is beyond the legend that has formed around her.
Having previously directed biopics like “Jackie” and “Spencer,” Larraín is known for capturing the essence of iconic women. Jolie’s portrayal of Callas is both regal and compelling, embodying a diva who unapologetically states, “I took liberties all my life and the world took liberties with me.”
When asked about that quote, Jolie expressed, “I resonate with that, for sure,” taking a moment before continuing with, “People might read into it, but I strive to connect with my work rather than the fame it brings. While some find comfort in public life, I’ve always felt somewhat uneasy in it.”
Initially, Larraín presented Jolie with the film “Spencer” to inspire her. He believed she possessed the charisma needed for the character, capturing the internal struggles Callas faced during tumultuous times.
Jolie shared, “There’s a shared solitude between us, but it’s not necessarily negative. Occasionally, introspection and loneliness shape who we are.”
Larraín has long desired to showcase opera’s power in film and was captivated by Callas’s unique vocal range. “Her voice is a blend of fragility and strength,” he noted.
In “Maria,” Larraín merges archival recordings of Callas with Jolie’s own voice, emphasizing the melding of their artistry. “During rehearsals, I realized that genuine opera cannot be faked,” Jolie acknowledged.
Despite never having sung publicly before, the experience led to a newfound respect for opera’s emotive qualities. “As we age, perhaps the weight of our experiences amplifies our connection to the depth found in opera,” she proposed.
Larraín suspects that many people only see a superficial side of Jolie, despite extensive research he did on her. “No one can fully know another person, even with vast knowledge,” he concluded.
As for her future in acting, Jolie remains uncertain. “There’s no definitive path ahead,” she confessed. For now, she is still absorbing her temporary friendship with Callas.
“When portraying a real person, they become a part of you,” said Jolie. “Even now, when I hear her music at events, I experience a jarring memory of deep emotional release.”
