Angelina Jolie's portrayal of Maria Callas fails due to terrible lip-syncing
- Angelina Jolie stars as Maria Callas in a biopic focused on her final years.
- The film combines Jolie's vocals with historical recordings of Callas but faces criticism for lip-syncing.
- Jolie reflects on her transformation as an artist and the importance of family support during the emotional role.
In a recent film set in France, Angelina Jolie portrays the iconic opera singer Maria Callas, focusing on her life during her later years in the 1970s. Born in New York in 1923, Maria Callas became a renowned figure in the opera world, grabbing attention for her exceptional talent and unique voice. The biopic, directed by Pablo Larraín, highlights Callas’s final days as she retreated from public sight, reflecting on her life and career. Jolie, who immersed herself in the role, prepared extensively to understand the complexities of opera and the emotional layers of Callas's character. As the film attempts to blend Jolie's performance with historical recordings of Callas, it has received criticism for its reliance on lip-syncing. Larraín defended the decision, claiming that Jolie sang live for certain parts of the performance; however, critics note that a significant portion features lip-syncing. This approach has sparked debate over the authenticity of biopics depicting extraordinary talents. The film aims to convey not just Callas's struggles with her art, but also a deeper exploration of the emotional burdens faced by artists, emphasizing that art is often intertwined with pain. Jolie, reflecting on her own career and motivations, stated that she had evolved as an artist over the years. In a candid discussion, she acknowledged how her perspective shifted as she aged, allowing her to connect more deeply with the character she played. Upholding her identity as both a mother and an artist, she expressed gratitude for her family's support during the challenging filming process. This dual role provided her children a glimpse into her artistic journey and the emotional endeavors she undertook to embody Maria Callas. The film's exploration of a woman's internal and external struggles in the spotlight potentially resonates with Jolie's personal experiences, allowing for a rich narrative that bridges the gap between the audience and the subject. While some reviews celebrate the ambitious nature of the film, others highlight limitations that can detract from its overall impact. Ultimately, the discussion centered around performance authenticity, discerning artistic expression, and the relationship of an artist with their audience remains an area of interest as the film is released.