Maria Callas, remembered as one of the greatest sopranos of the 20th century, is the central figure in the new Netflix biopic “Maria,” which stars Angelina Jolie and is set to be released on December 11. Unlike many biopics that focus on the height of a celebrity’s career, this film explores the final week of Callas’s life, when she was grappling with a deep sense of loss and withdrawal in Paris.
The movie presents Callas not as the glamorous opera star celebrated during her peak, but rather as a complex individual facing mental health challenges. Known for her fiery temperament, Callas has been depicted in the film as a lonely figure. She famously proclaimed her need for adoration in public spaces and boasted of grand ideas, including an autobiography that she never completed.
As the narrative unfolds, Callas is shown battling hallucinations and the effects of addiction to Mandrax, a powerful sedative, which compounded her struggles. Experts like Lyndsy Spence, a biographer of Callas, suggest that she may have been suffering from a neurological disorder akin to multiple sclerosis, limiting her vocal abilities and contributing to her despair.
In addition to her personal battles, the film addresses Callas’s tumultuous relationship with Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. Although Onassis was captivated by the glamorous lifestyle that surrounded Callas, he ultimately chose to be with Jacqueline Kennedy, leaving Callas devastated. She was rumored to have been pregnant with his child, but this remains unproven.
In her last days, Callas led a reclusive life, playing cards with her butler and maid, estranged from her family who had previously exploited her talent. The film portrays her grappling with identity and purpose, showing that her life revolved more around Onassis than her illustrious career.
Tragically, Callas passed away at the age of 53 from a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate in the world of opera. This biopic, while portraying the darker chapters of her life, allows viewers to understand the complexities of her character and the pressures she faced.
In summary, “Maria” offers a poignant reflection on Callas’s life, capturing her struggles and the poignant realization that, even amid fame, she experienced profound loneliness and heartache. This story, while tragic, serves as a reminder of the human side of legendary figures, highlighting the importance of compassion and understanding mental health issues.
As audiences prepare to engage with Callas’s story, it’s hopeful to see a narrative that seeks to demystify her challenges, inviting a deeper appreciation for both her remarkable talent and her very real struggles.