Maria Callas, one of the most esteemed sopranos of the 20th century, is celebrated for her iconic performances in operas like Medea, Tosca, and La Traviata. TIME magazine famously named her “the undisputed queen of the world’s opera” on the cover of its October 29, 1956, issue. However, the newly released Netflix biopic, titled simply “Maria,” takes a poignant dive into the final days of Callas’s life, showcasing a woman who reflects on her past amid feelings of desolation and regret.
Set during the last week of Callas’s life in Paris, the film presents an unvarnished portrait of the legendary singer as she navigates personal turmoil rather than the glamour typically associated with her career. Once enthralled by the spotlight, Callas’s current existence is marked by sadness and introspection. According to her biographers, although a biopic would have been a dream come true for Callas, the film portrays her as a woman trapped in a dark place, weighed down by the pressures of fame and the burdens of her personal life.
Throughout the film, Callas’s mental health struggles are at the forefront. Known for her complex personality, moments in the film highlight her larger-than-life ego, as she expresses a longing to be adored and reflects on unrealized ambitions, such as plans for an autobiography and an aria. As her mental state deteriorates, she hallucinates that cameras are following her, a manifestation of her internal struggles exacerbated by addiction to Mandrax, a sedative she battled in real life.
Experts point to Callas as potentially suffering from a neurological disorder, which contributed to her deteriorating voice and led to her addiction to drugs in a desperate attempt to cope with the symptoms. Paul Wink, a psychology professor, suggests that modern diagnoses would likely label her with depression and drug addiction, marking the tragic end of a once-vibrant career.
An integral part of the narrative is her tumultuous relationship with Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. Although he was indifferent to her art, he enjoyed the glamour surrounding her. Despite their deep connection, Callas was devastated when Onassis chose to marry Jacqueline Kennedy. The film encapsulates this betrayal, showcasing the personal heartbreak that ultimately led to her emotional unraveling.
In her final years, Callas’s isolation was palpable. The film depicts her as a lonely figure, often playing cards with her aides and tending to dogs, reflecting her estrangement from family dynamics that had once been fraught with exploitation and demands. Her quest for identity beyond her career proved elusive, with her life transitioning from one dedicated to music to one anchored in a complex relationship that ultimately left her feeling lost.
Callas passed away at the age of 53 from a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with beauty, talent, and tragedy. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the pressures faced by artists in the public eye, as well as the importance of mental health awareness.
In summary, the biopic “Maria” reveals the complexities of Callas’s life beyond her acclaimed career, including her struggles with mental health and addiction, her passionate yet painful relationship with Onassis, and the loneliness that defined her last years. While the film may depict a dark chapter, it also invites reflection on the human experience of ambition, love, and the search for purpose. As audiences engage with Callas’s story, they may find hope in the understanding that behind the glittering veneer of fame, there exists a very human story of resilience and vulnerability.