After a three-year break from acting, Hollywood icon Angelina Jolie makes a highly anticipated return to the screen in Maria, a biographical drama chronicling the life of world-renowned opera singer Maria Callas. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Pablo Larraín, the film is a co-production between Chile, Germany, Italy, and the USA, and brings to life one of the most celebrated sopranos of the 20th century.
A Powerful Performance by Angelina Jolie
Jolie, known for her transformative roles in Girl, Interrupted, Maleficent, and Changeling, takes on the challenging task of portraying Callas, whose dramatic personal life was as captivating as her stage presence. The film delves into the final years of Callas’ life, exploring her struggles, triumphs, and enduring legacy in the world of opera. Jolie has spoken in interviews about the emotional depth required for the role, as well as the extensive preparation involved in embodying the legendary soprano’s mannerisms and voice.
The film is helmed by Pablo Larraín, a director with a strong reputation for biographical dramas. His previous work includes Spencer (2021), a poignant portrayal of Princess Diana’s life, and Jackie (2016), which examined Jacqueline Kennedy’s experience in the wake of her husband’s assassination. With Maria, Larraín once again crafts an intimate and visually stunning character study, capturing both the fragility and strength of its subject.
A Stellar Cast Brings Callas’ World to Life
The film boasts a stellar supporting cast alongside Jolie. Italian actor Pierfrancesco Favino, known for his roles in The Traitor and World War Z, plays a pivotal character, while acclaimed actress Alba Rohrwacher adds depth to the narrative. The ensemble also includes Turkish star Haluk Bilginer and Australian actor Kodi Smit-McPhee, who earned an Academy Award nomination for his performance in The Power of the Dog. Their performances help bring Callas’ world to life, portraying the people who influenced and shaped her final years.
From Venice to Cinemas Across Germany
Following its world premiere at the prestigious Venice International Film Festival, Maria received critical acclaim for its cinematography, storytelling, and Jolie’s performance. The film later traveled to several other international festivals, where it continued to garner praise. Now, German audiences have the chance to experience the film on the big screen, as it opens in cinemas nationwide.
Larraín’s signature style—characterized by a dreamlike atmosphere, careful attention to historical detail, and an emotionally immersive narrative—makes Maria a compelling watch. The film is not just a biopic but an artistic tribute to one of the greatest opera singers of all time.
Blu-ray Release and Technical Specifications
In addition to its cinematic release, Maria is already listed for pre-order on Blu-ray in German online stores. Studiocanal, in partnership with Plaion Pictures, has announced that the film will be available in a high-definition edition starting 19 June 2025. The Blu-ray will be packaged in a softbox case and is expected to feature German-language audio in DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, ensuring a high-quality viewing experience.
The picture quality will be encoded in 1080p AVC, delivering sharp details and vibrant colours. However, there has been no official confirmation regarding additional special features or behind-the-scenes content. Given Larraín’s meticulous approach to filmmaking, fans of both cinema and opera are hoping for insightful extras that delve into the making of the film, Jolie’s preparation for the role, and the historical accuracy of the production.
