From Athens to Hollywood: Aggelina Papadopoulou’s Stunning Rise

The unlikely journey of a Greek starlet

How does a 17-year-old singer from Greece end up sharing screen space with one of the biggest Hollywood stars? For newcomer Aggelina Papadopoulou, the path to portraying young Maria Callas in Pablo Larraín’s film “Maria” began with an unexpected catalyst. It all started with a mysterious request sent to her music school in Athens.

The casting call that changed everything

The request was simple but specific—female singers aged 17 to 22 with brown hair who could resemble the legendary American-Greek soprano Maria Callas. Beyond this, the hopefuls knew nothing. “We had less than a day to prepare the two songs you hear me singing in the movie,” Papadopoulou reveals, reflecting on the whirlwind preparation for her audition.

Within just three weeks, Aggelina went from sending in her audition tape to finding out she had landed the role. “It happened pretty quickly, but from what I know, they searched in a lot of countries, especially Greece, Spain, and Italy because Pablo wanted Maria to have Mediterranean features,” she says. The selection process was rigorous. Thousands of girls auditioned, each hoping to capture the essence of Callas.

Natural talent meets significant opportunities

Despite this being her first-ever screen role, acting felt instinctive for Papadopoulou, the daughter of a music school owner and actor. To her, playing young Callas was an organic extension of her roots. However, the magnitude of working on such a grand production didn’t hit her until she arrived in Budapest for filming. It was only during the Venice Film Festival’s world premiere that she could finally share her participation with the world.

“When I realized it was a film with Angelina Jolie, I wasn’t sure if I had heard right,” Aggelina admits. The excitement was palpable. Her teachers and family were thrilled, knowing how rare such opportunities are in Greece, especially involving overseas projects.

A memorable first encounter with Angelina Jolie

Papadopoulou’s role primarily involved playing the teenage Maria, with Jolie appearing as the adult Callas. Their on-screen interactions were minimal, limited to a pivotal scene towards the end of the biopic. Yet, their first meeting left a lasting impression. “She hugged me and it was really sweet because in my mind she wasn’t an approachable person, she was a star and a diva like Callas,” shares Papadopoulou, reflecting on how Jolie bridged the gap between Hollywood stardom and genuine warmth.

Jolie’s son, Maddox Chivan Jolie-Pitt, was also part of the Budapest crew, and he struck a friendship with Papadopoulou. They continue to stay in touch, and she cherishes the moments shared with him on set.

Capturing Maria Callas’ emotional journey

Portraying Maria Callas at such a tender yet troubled age was no small feat. The challenge lay in capturing the emotional depth Callas experienced during years of physical and psychological abuse by her mother. “I was trying to feel all the emotions Maria was feeling when she was a teenager, and it was even harder because this was her real life,” says Papadopoulou. Director Pablo Larraín’s empathetic guidance, influenced by having a daughter of a similar age, was instrumental in helping her navigate these tough scenes.

A gesture of cultural significance

Papadopoulou appreciates Larraín’s decision to cast a Greek actress for the role. “They found a great singer in the U.S. — someone who is much more prepared and has a better voice,” she acknowledges. Yet, having a Greek actress, given Callas’ significant cultural impact, added an element of authenticity to the portrayal. “We have theaters named after her. I think she would like to be portrayed by a Greek actress.”

A childhood inspiration realized

Growing up, Papadopoulou was no stranger to Maria Callas’ legacy. She shares a touching story about her mother, who has had a poster of Callas outside her music school for over 15 years. “When I got the role, she said, ‘I knew Maria Callas would be a part of our lives one day.’” The role has become a shared dream for her family, adding layers of personal significance to her professional achievement.

Eager anticipation for the Greek premiere

Now as Papadopoulou prepares for the Greek premiere of “Maria”, her excitement is palpable. “She is an icon in Greece and people have been waiting to see the film,” says the young actress, eager for her compatriots to experience their cinematic tribute to Maria Callas.

By portraying Callas, Aggelina Papadopoulou not only steps into the shoes of a global icon but also brings a piece of Greek cultural heritage to an international audience. Her journey is a testament to the unexpected paths that can lead to the world’s grandest stages, proving that dreams, indeed, can come true there.

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