Two Icons, One Timeline: Pablo Larraín Clarifies Maria and Jackie Connection

Chilean filmmaker Pablo Larraín is known for creating deeply moving and emotionally charged biopics. Known for films like Jackie (2016), which explored the life of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis after JFK’s assassination, and Spencer (2021), a poignant portrait of Princess Diana, Larraín has made a name for himself as a storyteller who delves into the inner struggles of historical icons. Now, with his upcoming project Maria, which focuses on the life of opera legend Maria Callas, Larraín has revealed that the film and Jackie are connected in an unexpected way.

During a recent press tour, Larraín shared that Maria and Jackie take place on the same timeline, but he was quick to clarify: “This is not a multiverse experiment. That’s not the kind of story I’m telling.” His comments sparked curiosity among cinephiles, given the growing trend of cinematic universes and multiverse narratives in modern filmmaking. However, Larraín appears to be taking a different path, one rooted in a shared thematic universe rather than a sprawling narrative web.

A Shared Universe of Internal Turmoil

When asked about the connection between Maria and Jackie, Larraín emphasized that both films explore the deep existential crises that women in the public eye go through. “It’s not about the intersection of characters or events,” he explained. “It’s about the emotional and psychological resonance that connects them.”

In Jackie, Natalie Portman gave an Oscar-nominated performance as Jacqueline Kennedy, portraying her grief, resilience, and efforts to craft a narrative around her husband’s legacy. Likewise, Maria, starring Angelina Jolie as the opera singer, will explore Callas’ struggles with fame, her tumultuous relationships, and her relentless pursuit of artistic perfection. Both films focus on women whose lives are shaped and distorted by the world in which they live—a theme Larraín finds deeply compelling.

“Maria Callas and Jacqueline Kennedy lived very different lives, but they both understood what it meant to be dissected by the public,” Larraín said. “Their stories mirror each other, reflecting the weight of expectation and the isolation of fame.”

Aesthetic Continuity Without a Multiverse

The idea of ​​connecting two films thematically rather than plot-wise isn’t new, but it’s a bold choice in an era dominated by branding. Larraín’s assertion that he’s “not doing a multiverse” highlights his intention to create standalone works that stand on their own merits while still sharing subtle artistic and emotional continuity.

“The multiverse is great for some types of stories,” Larraín admits. “But I want my films to be separate manifestations, even if they share the same spirit. Like they belong to the same family but speak different languages.”

In both Jackie and Maria, Larraín employs a distinct visual and tonal style, characterized by intimate close-ups, hauntingly beautiful soundtracks, and a focus on the characters’ internal struggles. These elements act as connective tissue, creating a sense of continuity without the need for explicit narrative connections.

Larraín’s approach to filmmaking often blurs the line between the personal and the universal. He delves into the inner lives of his characters, portraying them as both extraordinary figures and deeply human. This duality is central to his storytelling and serves as the basis for the thematic connection between Maria and Jackie.

Personalized Beyonce Jingle Ladies Christmas Baseball Jersey

The Allure of Historical Icons

Part of what makes Larraín’s films so compelling is his ability to reimagine historical icons in ways that are both authentic and creative. In Jackie, he portrays Jacqueline Kennedy not only as a symbol of grace and resilience, but also as a woman struggling with great loss and the pressure to maintain her image. Likewise, Maria promises to delve into the life of Maria Callas beyond her famous performances, exploring her vulnerabilities and insecurities.

“Both Jackie and Maria were seen as role models in their own worlds,” says Larraín. “But behind the scenes, they faced enormous struggles that shaped who they were. That’s what drew me to their stories—the tension between public perception and private reality.”

By focusing on these tensions, Larraín invites the audience to reconsider their understanding of these iconic women. Rather than portraying them as untouchable figures, he humanizes them, revealing their flaws, fears, and desires.

Angelina Jolie Steps Into the Spotlight

Angelina Jolie’s portrayal of Maria Callas was a huge hit. Known for her powerful performances in films like Girl, Interrupted, and Changeling, Jolie is no stranger to portraying complex, emotional characters. For Larraín, Jolie was the perfect choice to portray Callas’s fiery spirit and profound vulnerability.

“Angelina has a presence like Maria Callas—an intensity and charisma that captivates you,” says Larraín. “She brings both strength and vulnerability to the role, which is exactly what this story needed.”

Jolie has expressed her admiration for Larraín’s vision, praising his ability to create films that are both intimate and epic. “Working with Pablo is like entering a world where every detail matters,” Jolie said in an interview. “He has a way of making you feel the weight of his characters’ lives, and I am honored to bring Maria’s story to life.”

A Defiant Stance Against the Trend

Larraín’s decision to clarify that Maria and Jackie are not part of the multiverse reflects his commitment to preserving the integrity of his story. While the multiverse has become a common tool for filmmakers to weave complex, interconnected narratives, Larraín is charting a different course—one that prioritizes emotional depth over spectacle.

“I think audiences are very smart,” Larraín says. “They don’t need things to be connected in obvious ways. It’s important for stories to resonate on a human level.”

This defiance of current trends is a testament to Larraín’s artistic vision. Rather than succumbing to the pressures of branding, he remains focused on creating films that stand as unique works of art, united by their exploration of universal themes.

Personalized Britney Spears Christmas Baseball Jersey

The Future of Larraín’s Cinematic Universe

While Maria and Jackie are connected on a thematic level, it’s unclear whether Larraín plans to expand this shared universe of emotional biopics. When asked about the possibility of future films exploring similar themes, Larraín was noncommittal.

“I don’t think of my films as part of a larger plan,” he said. “Each film is a journey on its own. If there is a connection, it’s because the stories naturally speak to each other.”

For now, fans of Jackie and Larraín’s other work can look forward to Maria as a continuation of his exploration of iconic women and the complexities of their lives. With Angelina Jolie at the helm and Larraín’s signature style, Maria promises to be another compelling entry in his filmmaking career.

Conclusion: A Singular Vision in a Crowded Landscape

Pablo Larraín’s announcement that Maria and Jackie exist on the same timeline but are not part of a multiverse is a refreshing reminder of the power of independent storytelling. By connecting his films through shared themes and emotional resonance rather than explicit narrative connections, Larraín is carving out a unique space in contemporary cinema.

As audiences eagerly await the release of Maria, one thing is clear: Larraín’s films continue to challenge and captivate, offering intimate portraits of iconic figures that resonate far beyond the screen. Whether or not his cinematic universe expands, the stories of Maria Callas and Jacqueline Kennedy will remain testaments to his artistry and vision.

Homepage: Shioutfit