Maria Callas Biopic ‘Maria’ Eyes Venice Film Festival Debut

Pablo Larraín’s new biopic "Maria," about the legendary opera singer Maria Callas, is expected to premiere at the Venice Film Festival. Variety reports that Larraín’s film will debut at Lido, following the path of his previous biopics "Spencer," featuring Kristen Stewart as Princess Diana, and "Jackie," with Natalie Portman as Jackie Kennedy, both of which premiered in Venice.

"Maria" is among several high-profile films anticipated to debut at Venice, including “Joker 2: Folie à Deux,” “Queer,” and “In the Hand of Dante.” The biopic stars Valeria Golino, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Pierfrancesco Favino, Alba Rohrwacher, and Haluk Bilginer. The script, penned by Steven Knight, explores the tumultuous, beautiful, and tragic life of Maria Callas, relived and re-imagined during her final days in 1970s Paris.

"Maria" is currently seeking U.S. distribution. The 81st Venice Film Festival will run from August 28 to September 7, 2024.