With “Neruda,” “Jackie,” and “Spencer,” Pablo Larraín has explored the limits and possibilities of the biopic. Now he’ll do it again with a new female subject, and Angelina Jolie set to star.
The Hollywood Reporter reports that Larraín’s next film is “Maria,” about famed opera singer Maria Callas, with Jolie starring. The film will recount Callas’ finals days in 1970s Paris from a script by Steven Knight, who penned “Spencer.” As of now, there are no other casting announcements beyond Jolie.
“I take very seriously the responsibility to Maria’s life and legacy. I will give all I can to meet the challenge,” Jolie said in a statement. “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.” Jolie is currently at work on her sixth directorial feature, “Without Blood.”
Larraín had some comments of his own. “Having the chance to combine my two most deep and personal passions, cinema and opera, has been a long-awaited dream,” he said. “To do this with Angelina, a supremely brave and curious artist, is a fascinating opportunity. A true gift.” “Maria” is Larraín’s follow-up to 2021’s “Spencer,” a biopic about Princess Diana’s last days of marriage to Prince Charles during Christmas 1991.
“Maria” will be produced under three production banners: Juan de Dios Larraín of Fabula Pictures; Lorenzo Mieli for The Apartment Pictures; and Jonas Dornbach for Komlizen Film.
Expect “Maria” to be ready for the 2024 festival circuit.
