The Emmy-award winning Turkish actor Haluk Bilginer is set to join the cast of Pablo Larraín’s upcoming film, Maria.
The Emmy-award winning Turkish actor Haluk Bilginer is set to join the cast of Pablo Larraín’s upcoming film, Maria.
Renowned for his vibrant cinematic projects, Pablo Larraín is about to embark on a new venture, telling the poignant tale of the world's renowned opera artist, Maria Callas, with Bilginer and Angelina Jolie in leading roles. Larraín, having previously worked on biographies of Jacqueline Kennedy and Lady Diana in 'Jackie' and 'Spencer' respectively, now brings the life of the Greek-American soprano Maria Callas to the big screen.
According to a report on Ranini.tv, the accomplished actor Bilginer will portray the Greek shipowner and businessman, Aristotle Onassis, in the film headlined by Jolie. The film's shoot is planned to commence in Budapest this month, with the script penned by Steven Knight, known for his work on the TV series Peaky Blinders. The movie Maria will focus on the famed soprano's final days of solitude in 1970s Paris.
Maria Callas, a Greek immigrant living in New York, was one of the most famous sopranos of her era and had a long-term affair with Aristotle Onassis. After being left by Onassis, who married Jackie Kennedy, Callas moved first to Italy and then to France.
Unable to fully recover from the betrayal, Callas tragically passed away from a heart attack in 1977, at the age of 52. Reports have also surfaced about the abuse and violence she faced during her relationship with Onassis.
This exciting project is sure to attract audiences worldwide, eager to see the enthralling performances of Bilginer and Jolie, and to explore the tumultuous life of the extraordinary Maria Callas. The biographical film promises not only a glimpse into Callas's exceptional career and tumultuous love life but also a deeper understanding of her struggles and resilience in the face of betrayal and hardship.