Maria Callas (1923-1977) is widely regarded as one of the most iconic sopranos of the 20th century, celebrated for her roles in operas such as Medea, Tosca, and La Traviata. Her remarkable talent and presence earned her the title of “the undisputed queen of the world’s opera” by TIME magazine in its Oct. 29, 1956, cover story. However, the recently released Netflix biopic “Maria,” starring Angelina Jolie, focuses on the final week of Callas’s life, rather than her celebrated prime, depicting her introspection in a period marked by sadness and decline.
Born in New York, Callas once thrived on the spotlight. Yet the film highlights not her glamorous performances but rather a deeply troubled woman reflecting on her fractured life. Despite her magnetic personality, Callas was plagued by mental health struggles. Scenes portray her as egocentric, asserting her need for adoration in restaurants and claiming to work on an autobiography and an aria, neither of which materialized. Her volatile temperament was evident on stage, as she was known to react dramatically to negative audience feedback.
Insights from her biographers suggest that Callas suffered from more than just the pressures of fame; she was likely battling severe mental health issues, including potential neurological conditions. The film presents her grappling with hallucinations and addiction to Mandrax, a sedative that compounded her troubles. Experts comment on her dual struggles with depression and substance abuse, asserting that her later life was marked by despair and isolation.
A significant aspect of Callas’s story was her tumultuous relationship with Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. Their romance, full of glamour and heartbreak, ultimately ended in tragedy when Onassis married Jacqueline Kennedy, leaving Callas devastated. The movie poignantly illustrates this betrayal and its profound impact on her life, further isolating her in her final years.
In her later life, Callas found herself increasingly lonely and disillusioned. The film depicts her as retreating from opera and fame, spending her days playing cards and caring for her dogs, estranged from her family and feeling devoid of purpose.
Callas was discovered dead in her Paris apartment at the age of 53 from a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy that is both inspiring and cautionary. Despite the painful narrative explored in “Maria,” there remains a recognition of Callas’s extraordinary artistry and the lasting impact of her character.
As audiences reflect on her story, it serves as a reminder of the complexities of life beyond the spotlight and the importance of mental health awareness. Maria Callas’s legacy endures not only through her music but also in the lessons learned from her challenging journey.