Angelina Jolie’s Fashion Dazzle Amidst Venice Heat at Film Festival

On Thursday night, August 29, 2024, Angelina Jolie commanded attention at the Venice Film Festival. The world premiere of “Maria,” directed by Pablo Larraín, was the highlight of the evening. Jolie stars in the film as the legendary opera singer Maria Callas. Her red carpet appearance was as captivating as the movie itself, though not without a touch of irony given the sweltering weather.

The premiere took place at the Palazzo del Cinema, where temperatures soared into the upper 80s Fahrenheit. Despite the brutal Venice heat, Jolie made a bold fashion statement with a faux fur stole draped over her shoulders. Her outfit consisted of a stunning asymmetric gown in stone chiffon, designed by Tamara Ralph, a frequent collaborator. The gown’s fluid design elegantly contrasted with the faux fur accessory, making Jolie stand out even more.

Jolie’s composure was unshaken by the heat. She took her time on the red carpet, posing gracefully alongside her co-stars. Pierfrancisco Favino, Alba Rohrwacher, and Kodi Smit-McPhee joined her, as did director Larraín. The actress participated in two interviews with local media, chatting about the film and her role. Later, she made her way down the barricade to interact with fans, taking photos and signing autographs with enthusiasm.

Inside the theater, the atmosphere was electric. The audience gave a standing ovation before the film even started. The applause continued long after the credits rolled, lasting an impressive eight minutes. Jolie was visibly moved by the reception and was seen wiping away tears of joy.

Aside from the premiere gown, Jolie’s fashion choices throughout the festival have been noteworthy. When she first arrived in Venice, she was photographed at the airport in a Dior trench coat from the fall 2024 collection. The trench coat was paired with sleek leather boots, a choice more suited for autumn than the summer heat.

Her other festival outfits have been notably lighter. At the Hotel Excelsior, Jolie wore a Saint Laurent sheer sleeveless V-neck dress made of fluid silk. She also sported a black Saint Laurent dress during a photo call and press conference for “Maria.” This ensemble was completed with a Cartier brooch, adding a touch of elegance to her appearance.

“Maria,” based on real events, tells the dramatic and poignant story of Maria Callas during her final days in Paris in the 1970s. Written by Steven Knight, the film explores Callas’ turbulent life and career. Jolie spoke about her role at a press conference held earlier in the day. She revealed that preparing for the role involved extensive training with opera singers and coaches. This preparation was not just technical but emotional. Jolie described her journey as a form of therapy, helping her release emotions she didn’t realize she had been holding back.

“I had no idea how much I was holding in and not letting out,” Jolie shared with the press. “So the challenge wasn’t the technical; it was an emotional experience to find my voice, to be in my body, to express. You have to give every single part of yourself.”

When asked about her personal connection to Callas, Jolie noted that she related to the opera singer’s vulnerability. “I share her vulnerability more than anything,” she said. “It’s the part of her that’s extremely soft and doesn’t have room in the world to be as soft as she truly was — as emotionally open as she truly was.”

Jolie’s presence at the Venice Film Festival was a blend of high fashion and heartfelt emotion, making the premiere of “Maria” an unforgettable event.

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