Pablo Larraín has come to be known for his female-led biopics, snagging Oscar acting nominations for both Natalie Portman and Kristen Stewart for their respective lead works in Jackie (2016) and Spencer (2021) though Larraín has seemingly made a career out of it before that with the 2012 historical drama No and the 2016 biopic Neruda. Now, Larraín has chosen the lead for his next biopic centered around famed opera singer Maria Callas which will also see Larraín reteaming with his Spencer screenwriter Steven Knight (Eastern Promises, Peaky Blinders)
It's been confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter (THR) that Angelina Jolie will star in Maria which will recount Callas’ finals days in 1970's Paris. Jolie released the following statement in conjunction with the announcement of her casting:
“I take very seriously the responsibility to Maria’s life and legacy. I will give all I can to meet the challenge. Pablo Larraín is a director I have long admired. To be allowed the chance to tell more of Maria’s story with him, and with a script by Steven Knight, is a dream.”
Juan de Dios Larraín, Lorenzo Mieli, and Jonas Dornbach will produce the film under their respective production banners of Fabula Pictures, The Apartment Pictures, and Komlizen Film. With the film expected to be ready for award season in 2024, Larraín also had his own comments on this collaboration:
“Having the chance to combine my two most deep and personal passions, cinema and opera, has been a long-awaited dream. To do this with Angelina, a supremely brave and curious artist, is a fascinating opportunity. A true gift.”
Given his concise work with previous actresses, it's a strong bet we may see Jolie in the Oscar race of 2024. Stay tuned!