Spoiler Alert: This article contains spoilers for *Maria*.
Overview of *Maria*: A Biopic on Maria Callas
The highly anticipated Netflix biopic, *Maria*, directed by Pablo Larraín, delves into the complex life of renowned American-Greek soprano, Maria Callas. Set against the backdrop of the 1970s in Paris, the film captures Callas’s introspection regarding her impactful career and her struggles to maintain her vocal legacy. Featuring Angelina Jolie in her return to the screen after a three-year hiatus, the film presents a poignant picture of an artist grappling with the decline of her once-celebrated talent.
Critical Reception and Awards Buzz
*Maria* made its debut at the esteemed 81st Venice International Film Festival, garnering acclaim for its insightful screenplay, impressive direction, and standout performances, particularly Jolie’s portrayal of Callas. Many industry insiders speculate that her role has positioned her as a strong candidate for the Best Actress Award at the upcoming 2025 Oscars.
A Rocky Romance: Callas and Aristotle Onassis
At the heart of *Maria* is the turbulent relationship between Callas and Aristotle Onassis, the shipping magnate whose affections shifted dramatically after he married Jacqueline Kennedy. As portrayed in the film, Callas’s passionate affair with Onassis began in 1959 and lasted until 1968, intertwining their lives in a narrative teeming with ambition, love, and heartache.
The Upheaval of Onassis and Kennedy’s Marriage
The film illustrates how Onassis was drawn to Jackie Kennedy following the assassination of her husband, John F. Kennedy. Seeking companionship—and security—Kennedy accepted Onassis’s proposal during a cruise aboard his yacht, Christina, ultimately leading to their marriage on October 20, 1968. This pivotal moment signaled the end of Callas’s involvement in Onassis’s life, but it did not extinguish the emotional connection between them.
Callas and Kennedy: An Unseen Rivalry
Throughout *Maria*, it is suggested that Jacqueline Kennedy never directly interacted with Maria Callas, yet their paths almost crossed in significant ways. Notably, Jackie attended a performance of *Tosca* at the Metropolitan Opera in 1965, marking a significant moment as it was her first public appearance following her husband’s tragic death.
Echoes of the Past: Callas’s Career Reflections
In various reflective sequences, Callas assesses her illustrious but tumultuous career as her relationship with Onassis deteriorates. A particularly striking moment occurs when Onassis mischievously refers to Kennedy during a party, foreshadowing the personal upheaval ahead for Callas as he grows disenchanted with her.
The Continuation of a Complicated Affair
Despite marrying Kennedy, Onassis struggled to fully sever ties with Callas. The film poignantly depicts their continued interactions even after his wedding, showcasing moments of passion intertwined with heartbreak. Their affair persisted until Onassis’s death in 1975, illustrating a relationship marked by both love and turbulence.
The Final Goodbyes
As Onassis faced his final moments, Callas was by his side, reflecting the depth of their bond that endured despite the pain they caused each other. It is revealed that Callas had avoided a confrontation with Kennedy at the hospital, summing up a life filled with unspoken turmoil as her romantic saga intertwined with the legacy of Jackie Kennedy—an enduring subplot that shapes Callas’s identity until her own death in 1977.
Conclusion
*Maria* is not just an exploration of the music and talent of Maria Callas but a deep dive into the emotional and psychological landscape of a woman caught in the shadows of fame and rivalry. The cinematic portrayal serves as a testament to the complexity of her relationships and the indelible mark they left on her life.
Sources:
History,
The Guardian,
Biography,
UPI,
HarpersBazaar,
Irish Independent,
Town and Country Magazine,
Daily Mail,
Man and Culture Magazine,
People,
New York Times
Related Articles:
Essential Elements for a Friday the 13th Legacy Sequel
23:05
Disappointment in Quicksilver’s Death in Avengers: Age of Ultron and Kraven the Hunter
22:53
10 Uplifting Sci-Fi Movies That Deliver Feel-Good Endings
22:48
Leave a Reply