Oscar-winning actress Angelina Jolie’s much-anticipated biographical drama "Maria" is all set to premiere on Lionsgate starting May 9. The film offers a deeply personal look into the life of legendary opera singer Maria Callas, unveiling the untold stories behind her rise to fame and her enduring legacy, set against the dramatic backdrop of 1970s Paris. Directed by Pablo Larraín, known for his critically acclaimed films "Jackie" and "Spencer," "Maria" marks the third installment in his trilogy focusing on iconic 20th-century women. With a powerful narrative and a talented ensemble cast, the film promises to deliver an emotional journey through the final days of Maria Callas' life.

Speaking about her connection to the role, Angelina Jolie shared her deep admiration and empathy for Maria Callas. "I care for her deeply. I’m very moved by her, and I’m so happy we had the opportunity to show her as a human being," Jolie said. She revealed a touching detail about Callas’ personal struggles, noting that Maria was almost legally blind later in her life. Jolie explained how Maria, unable to wear her prescribed glasses on stage due to societal expectations, had to memorize her performances differently. "When you understand that, you see this person’s survival instinct. It wasn’t that she just wanted to be this; she had to survive and hide it and find a way around it and work twice as hard," Jolie added.

Exploring the Complexity of Maria Callas' Life and Career

Jolie delved further into Maria Callas' life, explaining how her singing career was initially shaped by her mother's ambitions. "Maria was pushed into singing as a young person by her mother, and when she was able to give it everything she had and be her best, she communicated something to people that was transformative," Jolie explained. However, the same adoring audiences who celebrated her talents turned critical when Callas faced challenges later in life. "As she got older and made choices in her life and different things happened, that same audience punished her for not being able to do that for them anymore. She had an enormous amount of pressure on her. And I think she was a very sensitive person," Jolie reflected.

"Maria" follows the final seven days of Maria Callas' life in 1977 Paris, offering viewers a reflective glimpse into the memories and decisions that shaped her illustrious yet tumultuous career. Alongside Angelina Jolie in the lead role, the film also stars Pierfrancesco Favino, Alba Rohrwacher, Haluk Bilginer, Stephen Ashfield, Valeria Golino, and Kodi Smit-McPhee. With its focus on a legendary figure whose voice captivated millions and whose life was marked by extraordinary resilience and complexity, "Maria" promises to offer a deeply human and emotionally powerful cinematic experience. The film not only celebrates the brilliance of Maria Callas but also sheds light on the personal battles she fought behind the scenes, giving audiences a fresh perspective on one of the greatest voices in history.

The release of "Maria" on Lionsgate on May 9 is highly anticipated by fans of Angelina Jolie, opera enthusiasts, and cinema lovers who appreciate profound biographical storytelling. As with "Jackie" and "Spencer," Pablo Larraín once again crafts a poignant exploration of an iconic woman's inner life, bringing Maria Callas’ extraordinary journey to the silver screen with authenticity and sensitivity. Stay tuned for the premiere of "Maria" as the world prepares to witness the life and legacy of an unforgettable artist through the lens of two master storytellers — Angelina Jolie and Pablo Larraín.