Netflix has secured the exclusive U.S. rights to the gripping biopic 'Maria,' a poignant exploration of the life of legendary opera singer Maria Callas. Directed by Pablo Larraín, the visionary helmer behind the critically acclaimed 'Spencer,' and starring the formidable Angelina Jolie, the film will make its prestigious debut at the Venice Film Festival on Thursday, igniting anticipation among cinema lovers worldwide.
This marks Netflix's second collaboration with Larraín, following last year's Oscar-nominated 'El Conde,' which garnered accolades for its outstanding cinematography. The partnership solidifies Netflix's commitment to fostering creative excellence, as 'Maria' joins a formidable slate of seven productions crafted by Larraín's esteemed banner Fabula, including the upcoming 'In Her Place' directed by Maite Alberdi.
'Maria' is a masterful blend of creative fiction and a deeply psychological portrayal of Callas' twilight years in the 1970s. It weaves a tale of a woman who, spanning decades from the 1920s to the '70s, poured her heart and soul into her craft, ultimately consuming her voice and life in pursuit of her passion. With a script penned by Oscar nominee Steven Knight ('Spencer'), the film promises to be a poignant testament to the resilience and complexities of Callas' remarkable life.
"I am thrilled to reunite with the passionate team at Netflix, who share my unwavering dedication to cinema," enthused Larraín. "This film is the most personal work of my career, offering a creative vision and psychological insight into Maria Callas' journey as she strives to find her true voice, identity, and ultimately, sings for herself. It is a profound honor to bring this story to life and share it with audiences globally, just as Maria did with her art."
Netflix's Chairman of Film, Dan Lin, expressed his excitement over the continuation of the fruitful partnership with Larraín and Fabula. "Our seventh project with Pablo and Fabula, following the success of 'El Conde,' is a testament to their remarkable ability to illuminate the lives of iconic women through film," he said. "With Angelina Jolie embodying the extraordinary Maria Callas, this film promises to be a captivating experience for viewers everywhere."
Andrea Scrosati, Group COO & CEO Continental Europe at Fremantle, hailed the deal as a triumph. "We are overjoyed that Pablo Larraín's masterpiece 'Maria,' featuring a towering performance by Angelina Jolie, has found its American home at Netflix," he remarked. "We have no doubt that they will provide the film with the utmost support, and we extend our gratitude to Glen and his FilmNation team for facilitating this landmark acquisition."
