Hearst Magazines and Yahoo stand to earn commissions or revenues from select items featured through these links. Maria, embodied by Angelina Jolie, made a powerful debut into the awards season, gracing the red carpets of the Golden Globes and Critics' Choice Awards with her presence. However, Jolie opted to skip the SAG Awards the previous weekend and decided against attending the Oscars this evening as well.
Her absence from the Oscars wasn't prompted by any urgent matter. The actress wasn't scheduled to present an award and had been overlooked in the Best Actress in a Leading Role category for this year. Similarly, Maria faced near-exclusion from the Academy Awards, garnering just a solitary nomination for Best Cinematography.
In February, Jolie shared her thoughts on the awards season's media blitz with Backstage, revealing that she didn't let it overshadow her life. "I'm dipping in and out of it," she elaborated. "I've always taken this approach. You attend a few events, then return home and ensure it doesn't become the focal point of your life. Focus on the art. It's crucial not to take it all too seriously and let it consume your days or your work."
She further added, "For me, acting isn't just about mastering a skill to perform a job; it's about evolving into a more attuned, sensitive human being—studying human behavior and collaborating with other creative minds. That creative life springs from real-life experiences, not just a class you can enroll in."
Reflecting on Maria's success and her own career, Jolie said, "I'm deeply aware of how fortunate I am. I've always loved acting and approached it with the same dedication. But now, I'm even more grateful for the chance to live as an artist and work alongside other artists. What an incredible privilege to share emotions and create together. When I was filming Maria, I was almost 50, sitting with teachers, learning a skill I never imagined I'd acquire. Finding your voice and singing—what a magnificent gift, and how beautiful it is to connect with an audience through it. Meeting someone who's been touched by a film I've made makes me feel less alone in this world."
