Angelina Jolie exudes an air of elegance and pride in the trailers for the upcoming biopic Maria. The film is set to hit theaters on January 1, 2025 (IN ITALY). The film is directed by Chilean filmmaker Pablo Larraín. He is known for Jackie and Spencer, which delved into the lives of Jacqueline Kennedy and Princess Diana respectively. It explores the story of Maria Kalogeropoulos, better known as Maria Callas. Callas was born on December 1, 1923, in New York. Her parents were Greek immigrants. She became one of the most iconic opera singers of the 20th century.

Larraín’s portrayal focuses on a specific chapter of her life. It is primarily set in Paris during the final years before her death. She died in 1977 at the age of 54. The narrative retraces her monumental successes and delves into the pain and charisma that defined the soprano’s complex persona. Angelina Jolie brings Callas to life in the film. The movie also features a stellar supporting cast. This includes Italian cinema luminaries such as Pierfrancesco Favino, Alba Rohrwacher, and Valeria Golino, who plays Maria Callas’ sister, Yakinthi.

Maria Callas: A Cultural Icon and Fashion Trailblazer

Maria Callas was more than a celebrated opera singer; she was a cultural phenomenon. Franco Zeffirelli, a renowned opera director, famously remarked that opera music could be divided into “pre-Callas” and “post-Callas.” Beyond her musical legacy, she was a style icon who revolutionized the perception of elegance and glamour. In 1957, she was crowned the “most elegant woman in the world.” She embodied this title with her meticulously curated wardrobe.

Her sartorial choices were overseen by designer Elvira Leonardi Bouyeure, known as Biki, who created many of her stage outfits. Offstage, Callas favored the refined silhouettes of Christian Dior’s New Look. She admired the avant-garde designs of Yves Saint Laurent and Lanvin. She even appreciated the daring miniskirts of Mary Quant. Her striking ensembles often graced the pages of fashion magazines, inspiring generations of designers. More recently, brands such as Valentino, Dolce & Gabbana, and Stéphane Rolland have drawn upon her legacy. They have incorporated elements of her style into their collections.

Accessories were a cornerstone of her look, with gloves, hats, stoles, and statement sunglasses completing her ultra-feminine outfits. Jewelry was another passion. Maria’s collection featured exquisite pieces from Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels. Her husband, Giovanni Meneghini, or her later partner, Aristotle Onassis, often gifted them to her.

Angelina Jolie’s Transformation into Callas

In Maria, Angelina Jolie’s costumes are designed to faithfully reflect Callas’ iconic wardrobe. Costume designer Massimo Cantini Parrini worked with animal welfare organizations. This included collaborating with PETA. They incorporated vintage fur coats. This ensured no new fur was produced for the film. These carefully curated costumes serve as a tribute to Callas’ style. They also acknowledge her lasting impact on fashion.

Through Maria, Callas’ artistic genius is set to captivate audiences once again. Her influence on culture and style will also captivate them. This offers a poignant exploration of her life. It highlights her enduring legacy.