Angelina Jolie pursues bigger roles with age

Angelina Jolie, one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures, continues to defy stereotypes and push boundaries as she takes on increasingly significant and complex roles with age. Known for her stunning looks, exceptional talent, and humanitarian efforts, Jolie has not only cemented her place in the entertainment industry but has also proven that success and relevance are not constrained by time.

From Stardom to Iconic Status

Jolie’s career took off in the late 1990s and early 2000s with roles that showcased her talent and versatility. Her breakout performance in Girl, Interrupted (1999), which earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, marked her arrival as a serious actor. She went on to star in blockbuster hits such as Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001), Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005), and Salt (2010), establishing herself as a bankable action star while also demonstrating her ability to tackle dramatic roles.

However, as Jolie matured, so did her choice of roles. Moving away from the conventional Hollywood mold, she began selecting projects that aligned with her personal values and artistic aspirations. This evolution not only elevated her career but also solidified her status as a cultural icon.

The Evolution of Her Roles

As Jolie has aged, her roles have become more nuanced and meaningful. In Maleficent (2014) and its sequel, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019), she reinvented the traditional Disney villain, bringing depth and humanity to a character often portrayed as purely malevolent. These films showcased her ability to balance blockbuster appeal with emotionally complex storytelling.

Her performance in Those Who Wish Me Dead (2021) saw her as a grizzled firefighter protecting a young boy from assassins—a role that highlighted her enduring action star credentials while allowing her to explore themes of trauma and redemption. Jolie’s more recent work has focused on stories with substance, signaling her shift towards projects that resonate on a deeper level with audiences.

Behind the Camera

In addition to her acting, Jolie has carved out a successful career as a director, proving her talents extend far beyond the screen. Her directorial debut, In the Land of Blood and Honey (2011), tackled the Bosnian War, earning critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of the human cost of conflict. She followed this with Unbroken (2014), By the Sea (2015), and First They Killed My Father (2017), each demonstrating her commitment to storytelling that is both powerful and thought-provoking.

Her directorial choices reflect her growth as an artist and a humanitarian. These films tackle global issues such as war, displacement, and survival, showing Jolie’s willingness to use her platform to shed light on critical topics.

Defying Ageism in Hollywood

Jolie’s career trajectory challenges the pervasive ageism that often sidelines women in Hollywood as they grow older. Rather than retreating into supporting roles or fading into the background, Jolie has embraced her age and continued to command lead roles in major productions.

Her ability to secure better, more complex jobs as she gets older speaks to her unparalleled versatility and star power. Jolie’s approach to aging gracefully while continuing to push boundaries serves as an inspiration to actors and audiences alike, proving that talent and determination are ageless.

Balancing Career and Advocacy

What sets Jolie apart is her commitment to using her celebrity status for good. As a United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Special Envoy, she has tirelessly advocated for refugees and displaced individuals worldwide. Her humanitarian work often informs her film choices, as seen in First They Killed My Father, which sheds light on the Cambodian genocide.

Jolie’s dual focus on her career and advocacy work has made her a role model for balancing professional success with meaningful impact. Her ability to intertwine art and activism ensures her work remains relevant and impactful.

Looking Ahead

As Angelina Jolie continues to age, it’s evident that her career is far from slowing down. With upcoming projects in both acting and directing, she remains a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood. Her journey reflects the evolving narrative around women in entertainment, proving that age can be an asset rather than a limitation.

Jolie’s ability to adapt, evolve, and excel has cemented her legacy as one of the most accomplished and admired figures in the industry. As she continues to take on better roles and projects, audiences can expect her to deliver performances that are not only captivating but also profoundly meaningful. Angelina Jolie’s career is a testament to the power of resilience, talent, and vision—qualities that only grow stronger with time.