Hollywood icon Angelina Jolie is set to be honored with the prestigious Maltin Modern Master Award at the 40th Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF). The award ceremony will take place on February 5, 2025, at the Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara. Jolie, celebrated for her versatile acting and impactful directorial work, has left an indelible mark on the film industry, making her a fitting recipient of this accolade.
The Maltin Modern Master Award, named after esteemed film critic Leonard Maltin, recognizes individuals who have significantly influenced the world of cinema. Established in 1995, the award was renamed in 2015 to honor Maltin’s contributions to the festival as a longtime moderator. The Santa Barbara International Film Festival, which runs from February 4 to February 15, 2025, will also showcase a variety of international films, with the full lineup expected in January.
Jolie’s latest film, *Maria*, directed by Pablo Larraín and depicting the life of opera singer Maria Callas, will premiere in select theaters on November 27, 2024, before its streaming release on Netflix in December. Additionally, Jolie’s directorial project, *Without Blood*, starring Salma Hayek, has garnered acclaim following its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival earlier this year.
Jolie’s career highlights include her Academy Award-winning performance in Girl, Interrupted and her roles in iconic films such as Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, and Maleficent. Beyond acting, she has directed critically acclaimed films like Unbroken and First They Killed My Father. Her humanitarian efforts, particularly with the UN, further demonstrate her global influence.(input from agencies)
