Chilean director Pablo Larraín’s latest film, Maria, has surpassed $23 million in international box office earnings, making it his highest-grossing movie to date. The film, starring Angelina Jolie as the legendary opera singer Maria Callas, has resonated with audiences worldwide, reflecting Larraín’s unique storytelling and Jolie’s compelling performance.

Box Office Performance

Maria has been released in 54 overseas markets, with Italy leading as the top offshore market, contributing $3.32 million to the total gross. Other significant markets include:

• Germany: $3.1 million
• France: $2.45 million
• United Kingdom & Ireland: $2.2 million
• Spain: $1.45 million
• Netherlands: $1.33 million
• Greece: $1.03 million
• Poland: $946,000
• Australia: $844,000
• Turkey: $827,000

The film continues to be screened in multiple markets, with upcoming releases in Korea, Lithuania, and Norway, among others. This sustained international interest underscores the film’s global appeal and the universal themes it explores.

Critical Reception

Maria premiered at the 81st Venice International Film Festival on August 29, 2024, where it competed for the Golden Lion and received generally positive reviews from critics. The film was praised for its cinematography, with Edward Lachman earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Cinematography at the 97th Academy Awards. Angelina Jolie’s portrayal of Maria Callas also garnered acclaim, leading to a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards. Critics highlighted Jolie’s emotional depth and the film’s visual opulence as standout elements.

Production and Distribution

Directed by Pablo Larraín and written by Steven Knight, Maria is the third installment in Larraín’s trilogy focusing on iconic female figures, following Jackie (2016) and Spencer (2021). The film was produced by Juan de Dios Larraín, Jonas Dornbach, and Lorenzo Mieli, with Fremantle financing the project. International distribution rights were secured by various companies: Studiocanal handled releases in the United Kingdom, Germany, and Poland; 01 Distribution managed the Italian release; and Netflix acquired the U.S. distribution rights, releasing the film in select theaters on November 27, 2024, before making it available for streaming on December 11, 2024. This strategic distribution approach has contributed to the film’s widespread reach and commercial success.

Director’s Vision and Future Projects

Pablo Larraín’s direction in Maria has been lauded for its depth and sensitivity, effectively capturing the complexities of Maria Callas’s life and legacy. Larraín’s ability to blend historical accuracy with artistic interpretation has set a new standard in biographical filmmaking. Looking ahead, Larraín is set to explore new narratives, with several projects in development that continue his exploration of complex characters and historical figures. His commitment to storytelling that challenges and engages audiences positions him as a leading figure in contemporary cinema.

Implications for the Film Industry

The success of Maria highlights several key trends in the film industry. First, the global appeal of biographical dramas centered on iconic figures continues to captivate audiences, suggesting a sustained interest in films that offer both historical insight and emotional resonance. Second, the strategic use of streaming platforms for distribution has proven effective in reaching a broader audience, particularly in the U.S. market. The film’s availability on Netflix has facilitated its accessibility and contributed to its box office success. These developments underscore the evolving landscape of film distribution and audience engagement in the digital age.

What is the plot of ‘Maria’?

‘Maria’ is a biographical drama directed by Pablo Larraín, focusing on the final days of opera singer Maria Callas in 1977 Paris.The film delves into her reflections on her life and career, capturing her emotional and artistic journey. Angelina Jolie portrays maria Callas, delivering a performance that has been widely praised for its depth and authenticity. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/ddfefd5af0fbd17433ce51c1b63e875c?utm_source=openai))

How has ‘Maria’ been received by critics?

The film has garnered a range of critical responses. Some critics have lauded Jolie’s portrayal of Callas,highlighting her emotional depth and the film’s visual opulence. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/ddfefd5af0fbd17433ce51c1b63e875c?utm_source=openai)) However, others have found the film’s narrative less impactful, noting that it leans heavily on flashbacks and struggles to delve deep into Callas’ character.([ft.com](https://www.ft.com/content/12917c71-703c-4ed1-9f4f-3037131f6a4e?utm_source=openai))

Where can I watch ‘maria’?

‘Maria’ is available for streaming on Netflix in the United States.It was released in select theaters on November 27, 2024, and became available for streaming on December 11, 2024. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maria_%282024_film%29?utm_source=openai))

What awards has ‘Maria’ been nominated for?

‘Maria’ received several accolades,including a nomination for Best Cinematography at the 97th Academy Awards. Angelina Jolie was also nominated for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maria_%282024_film%29?utm_source=openai))

Is ‘Maria’ part of a trilogy by Pablo Larraín?

Yes, ‘Maria’ is the third installment in pablo Larraín’s trilogy focusing on iconic female figures, following ‘Jackie’ (2016) and ‘Spencer’ (2021). ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maria_%282024_film%29?utm_source=openai))