Maria Callas, one of the most celebrated sopranos of the 20th century, is widely recognized for her remarkable performances in operas like Medea, Tosca, and La Traviata. In the October 29, 1956, issue of TIME magazine, she was referred to as “the undisputed queen of the world’s opera.” However, the new Netflix biopic, titled “Maria,” featuring Angelina Jolie as Callas, tells a different story—one set during the last week of her life in Paris, where she finds herself reflecting on a past filled with accolades but facing a bleak present.
While a biopic about Callas might seem like a tribute to her illustrious career, the film chooses to focus on her struggles rather than glamorizing her life. The narrative delves deep into her mental health challenges, portraying her as withdrawn and despondent. As the film illustrates, Callas, who had a strong presence and big personality, often grappled with feelings of isolation and despair.
Throughout her career, Callas was known for her formidable ego, famously stating, “I come to restaurants to be adored.” However, toward the end of her life, she faced a series of emotional and physical challenges. Biographers suggest that she may have suffered from a neurological condition and dealt with drug addiction, which significantly impacted her health and her ability to perform.
The complexity of her emotional state was further compounded by her tumultuous relationship with Aristotle Onassis, the Greek shipping magnate who famously left her for Jacqueline Kennedy. Despite their tumultuous romance, Callas was never able to fully recover from this profound loss, which added to her feelings of loneliness and disillusionment in her final days.
The film reveals Callas spending her last years isolated, primarily engaged in card games with her butler and maid, while also tending to her beloved dogs. Estrangement from her family and a sense of lost purpose seem to overshadow her once-vibrant spirit. Ultimately, Maria Callas passed away at the young age of 53 from a heart attack, leaving behind a complex legacy that continues to intrigue audiences today.
The biopic serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles that even the most talented and beloved individuals can face, emphasizing that behind the fame and success, personal battles often remain hidden. By shedding light on this lesser-known aspect of Callas’s life, the film not only honors her memory but also opens up important conversations about mental health and the pressures of living in the spotlight.
In summary, the Netflix film “Maria” presents a compelling exploration of the life of Maria Callas during her final days, offering insights into her vulnerabilities and personal struggles, reminding us that even iconic figures are not immune to life’s challenges. It provokes thought on the balance between public persona and private suffering, ultimately paving the way for a more nuanced understanding of those who dedicate their lives to art.