But also cry with pain, and don’t tell me the film, and its legendary singer didn’t make you feel until your heart could burst.
I recently rewatched, yes for the third time to those who are counting, the film Maria. It is the latest work of cinematic art by Chilean filmmaker Pablo Larraín, who is a personal favorite, and the film stars the stunning Angelina Jolie in what I dare call the role of a lifetime.
Beyond the beauty of the film, the poignancy of the script by Steven Knight, its beautiful sets designed by the graciously talented Guy Hendrix Dyas, the stunning costumes designed by fellow Florentine Massimo Cantini Parrini and the performances involved, I am also finding myself connecting to the music. Each time I watch Maria, more and more and in a deeper, strangely personal way. Something about Maria Callas, La Divina, shouts personal freedom, or the lack thereof for most of her life — until her final week. That personal feeling conundrum is something that I’m grappling with in my own life, increasingly feeling more and more trapped, and her songs, her lyrical voice carries me through the hard times.
Here is a gift then, post Christmas and Hanukkah, for everyone and everyone who needs a little soothing this holiday season. May the poetry of La Callas bring you peace and merriment, when you need it most.
If you live in the US, the film is now available on Netflix.