So, I was pretty delighted when my long-time blogging buddy Rachel, over at Da Paura, asked me to review a favorite film of hers, Callas Forever.
The 2002 film focuses on the last days of the beautiful, stylish, and famed opera singer, Maria Callas during the 1970s.
The 53-year-old is struggling with depression and the loss of her iconic voice, but an old friend (Jeremy Irons) tries to bring her success back to life, with the use of new technology and lip-syncing.
European movie star Fanny Ardant is the gem of this film. Her stunning beauty and elegant demeanor bring a middle-aged Maria to life on screen, in the most flattering way possible. She conveys the emotionally distressed opera singer superbly, with as much grace and heartache as she could muster. It is a heart-wrenching performance.
I hate to say it, but Fanny definitely over-shadowed my beloved Jeremy Irons in the film. As the flamboyantly gay music promoter Larry, Jeremy is a little wooden in his performance. But this may be simply because I'm more critical of him, as he is one of my most favorite actors.
No amount of acting in this film, however, could take my eyes off the main star: the fashion. Fanny's wardrobe was entirely provided by Chanel for the film. Her outfits were spectacularly delicious. It is a lustful sight for any fashionista, whether you like the film or not.
Overall, I think Callas Forever is a great watch. It offers an interesting glimpse into the life of a legend who is not very well known today.
The only complaint I have is that this film left me wanting more. Not more of the film, but more of Maria Callas.
I didn't know much about Maria before watching the film, and now I am dying to know her entire life story. I want to buy recordings of her music. I want to pour over photos of the Chanel-clad diva. I want the entire experience.
So, immediately after seeing the film, I ordered a biography of the gorgeous opera singer online. I can't wait to start reading it!
I definitely recommend Callas Forever. Thank you Rachel for the excellent suggestion!
I definitely have to see this movie. You're right the fashion is making me delirious.
ReplyDeleteOoh I need to watch this movie... love what I've read/seen from what you've posted alone! Thanks for the review!
ReplyDeleteLauren
mildmediumhot.net
she is soo elegant!
ReplyDeleteI love opera. And she looks beautiful, even at her age. I'm going to go find this movie online now! :)
ReplyDeleteFanny Ardant has always stolen the show in front of any actor or actress she plays with. Even Gerard Depardieu had a hard time standing up to her beauty and talent when they played together. I had never heard of this movie. I guess I know what I am renting next week. And the wardrobe is 100% Chanel?! Well... Count me in! Thanks Jenny. La Callas had a full and exciting life, but it was not without drama, especially after she fell for Aristotle Onassis (his daughter Christina allegedly hated her.) Let us know how you like the book you ordered. Veronique (French Girl in Seattle)
ReplyDeleteLove Rachel and this review.
ReplyDeleteFabulous post!
xoxox,
CC
I want that lady's giant-ass hat. I would look like a pimp.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.glamkittenslitterbox.com/
Twitter: @GlamKitten88
I've never seen this movie, but Maria Callas had a pretty interesting life. I partially read a biography about her once at the library where I work. I think she dated Aristotle Onasis. Why am I telling you this? You probably already know lol.
ReplyDeleteMabel
Mabel Time
I've always read about her in literature books. Great read. :)
ReplyDeleteIf the starlet is clad in Chanel the movie cannot go wrong. I have yet to find a piece that I can't imagine slipping into and feeling completely glamorous. Let us know how the book reads! I cannot wait to hear your review of the book! :)
ReplyDeleteHer style was impeccable. If I'm not mistaken she had a relationship with Aristotle Onassis. Not sure if it was before or after Jackie Kennedy got involved with him. I'm thinking before. Thanks for sharing this with us.
ReplyDeletehttp://averysweetblog.com/
I looked her up after reading your post, and she seems like a fascinating person...She was beautiful!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds sooo good! You introduce me to the best movies, Jen!
ReplyDeletexo Josie
www.winksmilestyle.com
Looks like a great film. I love that she's an opera singer and that she wears Chanel. She looks gorgeous!
ReplyDeletewhere do you learn all these movies? wonderful!
ReplyDeletehash bars, cherry mash and tinfoil tiaras, dreaming of Maria Callas
ReplyDeletewhoever she is ... I'm a big fan of Jezza even when he's wooden. Fab post as always Jen...
I love this movie!!!!
ReplyDeleteM.
xo
www.stylesocietyincblog.com
Her voice is amazing.
ReplyDeleteI read a fictional novel sort of unrelated a while back, and it included a lot of random asides about Maria Callas. It intrigued me enough to want to know more, but I never read a bio and I haven't seen this movie! I'm inspired!
ReplyDeleteI honestly have never heard of this film. It sounds absolutely wonderful and I must track it down!! Great review!
ReplyDeletethe film is reaaly a masterpiece...and of cource Fanny Ardant incredible!!!
ReplyDeletea kiss from the
cocobloggers
I have never even heard of her, but she is gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteWOW! I love your blog <3
ReplyDeleteIt was such a nice post to read <3
Love
http://www.meghasarin.blogspot.com
This movie sounds really good! :) xx
ReplyDeleteThank you sooooo much Jennifer!! Ahhh I lived the movie again through your review. I feel exactly the same way too. I'm left wanting so much more! I want a movie that begins from day 1 and takes us through Maria's entire life and career. I read a bit about her life on wikipedia and it is incredible! I too loved her style and the gorgeous Chanel outfits in this movie. She was a true diva, a graceful lady, and the best opera singer that ever lived! Someone that I will always look up to and want to emulate in my life. Thank you thank you again! If you watch the biography, let me know which one and what you think of it! :)
ReplyDeleteSounds like an exceptional movie. I really like Jeremy Irons work as well. I'll be interested to read more about Callas here when you finish reading the biography!
ReplyDeleteI actually looked her up after I read this a few days ago. There are some wonderful youtube performances on her. She really does have an amazing voice. It kind of makes me rethink about listening to Rihanna or any other auto tuned pop slut ;)
ReplyDeleteThis is going to my must to watch movies for sure :))
ReplyDelete<3 Marina
Fashion.MakeUp.LifeStyle
Wow! I just looked her up. And now, I too want to know everything about her. Maybe her biography can be my book for February :)
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