Angelina Jolie will receive the Maltin Modern Master Award at SBIFF 2025

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The Modern Master Award, granted since 1995, recognises filmmakers who have made significant contributions to the world of cinema. The honour was renamed in 2015 in memory of Leonard Maltin, a renowned movie critic and veteran festival moderator. The purpose of the award is to honour artists whose work has had a significant impact on the film industry.

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This prestigious award is the consequence of Jolie's performance in Pablo Larraín's biographical drama "Maria," which has garnered critical acclaim. She portrays the legendary opera singer Maria Callas in the movie, a portrayal that has caught the attention of both audiences and reviewers.

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'Maria' received an incredible eight-minute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival, which brought Jolie to tears during its world debut.

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"Maria" explores the complex biography of the American-Greek soprano, focussing on her flight to Paris as she navigates her identity and legacy after a challenging and glamorous life. The picture is produced by a talented team consisting of Jonas Dornbach, Janine Jackowski, Juan de Dios Larraín, and Lorenzo Mieli, in addition to its creative credentials.

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Angelina Jolie now joins a long list of renowned former Maltin Modern Master Award recipients, including Robert Downey Jr., Nicole Kidman, Javier Bardem, Denzel Washington, Cate Blanchett, George Clooney, Christopher Nolan, James Cameron, Clint Eastwood, and Peter Jackson. Given that each of these artists has had a long-lasting influence in cinemas, Jolie's presence in this roster underscores her enduring significance.

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Jolie's career in the film industry began at an early age, when she appeared alongside her father, Jon Voight, in 'Lookin' to Get Out' (1982). Her work has earned her various awards, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in 'Girl, Interrupted' (1999). She has gained critical acclaim for her roles in 'A Mighty Heart' (2007) and 'Changeling' (2008), as well as in blockbusters such as 'Gone in 60 Seconds' (2000), 'Lara Croft: Tomb Raider' (2001), 'Mr. and Mrs. Smith' (2005), 'Salt' (2010), and 'Maleficent' (2014).

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Aside from performing, she has established herself as a filmmaker with films such as 'In the Land of Blood and Honey' (2011), 'Unbroken' (2014), 'By the Sea' (2015), and 'First They Killed My Father' (2017).

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In a statement on the impending award, Maltin complimented Jolie's daring choices in acting and directing, emphasising her ability to consistently set high standards for her work. "I look forward to reviewing her career with her in Santa Barbara!" he said, stirring up excitement for the festival.

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The 40th Santa Barbara International Film Festival will take place on February 4–15, 2025.

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