‘Maria’ Star Pierfrancesco Favino on His Scene-Stealing Role as Angelina Jolie’s Butler and Defying Macho Stereotypes: ‘Not All Men Are Like That’

As a seasoned movie enthusiast with a penchant for global cinema, I find myself deeply impressed by Pierfrancesco Favino‘s career trajectory and unwavering dedication to his craft. His passion for Italian cinema and the roles it deserves is not just commendable but essential in today’s world where cultural representation matters significantly.


As a cinema lover, I can’t help but admire Pierfrancesco Favino, the actor who portrays Maria Callas’s protective butler in Pablo Larraín’s film “Maria.” This man doesn’t shy away from a confrontation, whether it’s on-screen or off. He stands firm and fearless, much like the characters he brings to life.

Last year’s Venice Film Festival saw the fiery outburst characteristic of Callas from Rome, fueled by indignation over American actors like Adam Driver, star of “House of Gucci” and “Ferrari”, being consistently cast as iconic Italians. Favino expressed his opinion at a press conference that those roles should have been given to Italian actors instead — despite expressing no personal dislike for Driver.

In the film, “Maria,” Favino delivers a subtly impactful performance that could highlight a void in Hollywood roles. His character, Ferruccio, serves loyally as an assistant to Callas, moving her grand piano to different windows based on her preference for the best light of the day, despite his own back issues. He also unsuccessfully attempts to reduce her usage of Quaaludes. Furthermore, he engages in a powerful confrontation with Angelina Jolie, portraying the iconic diva. This role marks a significant increase in Favino’s global visibility.

In May, he was in Cannes as part of a jury led by Greta Gerwig for the festival. Additionally, during his stay, he climbed the Montée des Marches to promote the French blockbuster “The Count of Monte Cristo.” He played the role of Italian priest Abbé Faria in this film, a character who serves as a mentor to the main character who is imprisoned.

In September, Favino, known for his portrayal of alpha males with a tender heart, graced the Venice red carpet alongside Jolie to promote the film “Maria.” His performance as a sensitive yet melancholic character earned him high praise. To embody Ferruccio, Favino chose to walk with a limp, as he wanted his character to symbolize Maria’s inner turmoil. In an amusing remark, Favino described himself as both a protector and a confidant for Maria. Despite their strong connection, Favino pointed out that there was a significant social divide between the two characters.

The gap between their on-screen personas and off-screen interactions wasn’t noticeable. As Favino puts it, “Jolie welcomed me warmly without a hint of diva behavior.” Moreover, establishing a link between these two iconic figures – Callas and Jolie – was effortless. And just as in the movie, her public image faded away, giving way to the warmth and intimacy we cultivated for the screen.

Regarding his passionate plea about the portrayal of Italians by Hollywood actors in major films, Favino explains that he was trying to stir up awareness within Italy’s entertainment industry. Essentially, he was asking, “What are we doing to ensure our presence is significant?” He notes that Italian cinema is not being shown as often these days, and if it isn’t visible, it becomes difficult for directors to consider you.

In his native land, Favino is affectionately known as “Picchio,” a term that translates to “woodpecker.” This nickname symbolizes strength and tenacity during conflict. With a melancholic gaze and downtrodden countenance, Favino has mesmerized Italian viewers with his intricate acting skills, spanning from the brutal gang leader Libano in the critically-acclaimed series “Criminal Novel” to the disgraced former prime minister Bettino Craxi in Gianni Amelio’s “Hammamet.

As an ardent cinephile, I’ve always admired Favino for his ability to excel in Hollywood productions, despite his limited screen time as a seasoned Italian actor.

Favino is known for portraying various roles, such as a gold statue of Columbus in “Night at the Museum”, an inspector in “Angels & Demons”, and a doctor in “World War Z”. However, he’s eager for larger roles in future projects.

Favino might not have been the main character in “Maria,” but he enjoyed taking on the role of Callas’ butler since it offered him a change from the typically masculine parts he often gets cast for in Italian productions.

According to Favino, “Ferruccio truly reflects my genuine self.” He continues, “I resonate more with those emotional hues.” Pausing for a moment, he says, “Given the current discourse on harmful masculinity, I’m glad I can show that not all men embody such traits.

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2024-11-27 17:16