LEGENDS ON SCREEN: ANGELINA JOLIE, FERNET-BRANCA, AND MARIA CALLAS IN PABLO LARRAÍN’S NEW FILM “MARIA”
A glamorous Venice debut marked an unforgettable moment when two cultural legends met on the big screen: Fernet-Branca and Maria Callas. The legendary bitter of Casa Branca made its cinematic debut alongside the Divine herself in Pablo Larraín’s new biopic, Maria. This eagerly awaited film, premiering at the Venice Film Festival in September 2024, showcases the tale of the world’s most celebrated soprano—portrayed by the inimitable Angelina Jolie.
This film is the latest creation of Pablo Larraín, renowned for his work in biopics like Spencer, and the film was written by Steven Knight, known for Peaky Blinders. In Maria, the audience is swept into the final days of Maria Callas’ life in 1970s Paris. The production is backed by an international powerhouse of producers—Lorenzo Mieli for The Apartment Pictures, Juan de Dios Larraín for Fabula Pictures, and Jonas Dornbach for Komlizen Film. With such a stacked team behind the project, Maria is set to captivate audiences worldwide, reimagining the fascinating story of Callas’ life, her incredible career, and her last moments as a living legend.
Callas sipped legacy secrets
But why Fernet-Branca? What does this iconic bitter have to do with Callas? As it turns out, the Divine had a fondness for this storied beverage. According to historical accounts and some mythologized stories, Callas enjoyed sipping on Fernet-Branca, especially during her social moments with her famous lover, Aristotle Onassis. Whether in Milan or on tour, Callas’ ritual was to indulge in a small glass of Fernet-Branca before taking the stage, often adding mint leaves to enhance the experience. This pre-performance tradition is rumored to have kept her vocal cords in perfect condition, a hidden secret to her iconic voice that mesmerized audiences.
This story even ties into the creation of Brancamenta—born from Callas’ preferred mix of Fernet-Branca and mint. Now, these two icons—Fernet-Branca and Maria Callas—are immortalized together on the big screen, ready to capture the attention of cinephiles, opera lovers, and Fernet-Branca enthusiasts alike.
Niccolò Branca, CEO and President of Fratelli Branca Distillerie, couldn’t be prouder of this moment: “We are proud to be part of this extraordinary cinematic project,” he said, noting how perfectly Maria captures the elegance, strength, and tradition of both Callas and the Branca legacy.
Savoring cinematic heritage bliss
Fernet-Branca’s presence in Maria adds a unique cultural layer to the film, reinforcing its historical and iconic status. A brand steeped in Italian heritage, it has remained true to its roots since its creation in 1845. This film will no doubt elevate both Callas and Fernet-Branca in the minds of audiences, creating a cinematic experience that blends history, glamour, and a touch of indulgence.
ABOUT BRANCA
Fratelli Branca Distillerie, a symbol of Italian excellence in the premium liquor industry, was founded in 1845. Under the leadership of Niccolò Branca, the company remains a family-owned business, proudly promoting the “Made in Italy” label to over 160 countries worldwide. Fernet-Branca, alongside Brancamenta, Stravecchio Branca, Carpano, and other iconic beverages, continues to enchant the world with its unique formulas and timeless appeal.
For more information, visit fernetbranca.com.
