It's challenging to step away from something you excel at, especially as your abilities begin to diminish. Accepting that your best work might be permanently behind you can be difficult, regardless of how much you desire to continue. This was the struggle faced by Maria Callas (1923-1977) (Angelina Jolie), an iconic opera singer, as she neared the end of her celebrated but troubled life. Having not performed in almost four years, with her physical and mental health declining along with her vocal abilities, she considered a return to the stage, caught between the demands of such an undertaking and the wish for a peaceful personal existence. It was also a time for reflection on both her professional achievements and personal experiences, moments marked by great successes alongside painful setbacks, presented through affecting flashbacks filmed in striking black and white. Throughout the film, she drifts into imagined situations where it becomes difficult to tell what’s real from what might be a delusion. Director Pablo Larraín offers viewers an insightful exploration of the singer's life rather than a straightforward recounting of events, similar to his previous films “Jackie” (2016) and “Spencer” (2021). These three films together form a series about powerful women who experienced extraordinary yet difficult lives. What distinguishes this film from those earlier ones is the focus on her career, with her diverse opera performances beautifully recreated in several scenes. The movie also portrays Callas’s reputation as a demanding performer without resorting to exaggeration. Some have even suggested that the film is too restrained in its depiction of this legendary figure. However, I appreciated that measured approach, which could easily have transformed her into a one-dimensional character. This was largely thanks to Jolie's outstanding, award-nominated performance—a career resurgence for her as well. Combined with the film’s impressive design, stunning visuals and solid supporting actors, viewers are given another excellent work from an often overlooked director who, in my view, is among the best working today. The screenplay could have benefited from further development, particularly regarding the depth of her background story, but I'm willing to overlook that considering everything else “Maria” provides. This is especially evident in its deeply emotional beginning and ending sequences, musical arrangements certain to resonate with anyone who isn’t completely detached. Truly, disregard any negative comments about this film and enjoy it for what it is.

Source on TMDB