Angelina Jolie: An Overview

Introduction

Angelina Jolie Voight, known professionally as Angelina Jolie, stands as one of the most recognizable and influential figures in contemporary entertainment and humanitarian work. Born on June 4, 1975, in Los Angeles, California, Jolie has transcended her origins as a Hollywood celebrity to become a globally respected filmmaker, Special Envoy for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and advocate for numerous humanitarian causes.

Her career encompasses Academy Award-winning acting, critically acclaimed directing, passionate activism, and significant philanthropic work. With an Academy Award, three Golden Globes, and numerous humanitarian honors, Jolie represents a rare combination of artistic achievement and social impact. Her influence extends far beyond entertainment into global policy discussions on refugees, women’s rights, and international justice.

Hollywood Royalty and Early Life

Born into Hollywood aristocracy as the daughter of actors Jon Voight and Marcheline Bertrand, Jolie was exposed to cinema from birth. Her father won an Academy Award the year she was born, establishing the family in entertainment’s highest echelons. However, her parents’ separation when she was an infant, and her complicated relationship with her father, shaped her emotional landscape and informed her artistic work.

Despite her privileged background, Jolie experienced significant emotional turbulence during her youth, including struggles with self-harm, substance experimentation, and feelings of alienation. These experiences, while painful, contributed to the emotional authenticity she brings to her performances and her empathy for those suffering worldwide.

The Breakthrough: Girl, Interrupted (1999)

While Jolie had worked steadily throughout the 1990s, her portrayal of Lisa Rowe in “Girl, Interrupted” (1999) transformed her from working actress to major star. As a charismatic, dangerous psychiatric patient, Jolie brought terrifying intensity and dark magnetism to the role. The performance earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, the Screen Actors Guild Award, and the Golden Globe.

The role showcased Jolie’s ability to embody complex, morally ambiguous women—characters operating outside societal norms who nonetheless commanded attention and sympathy. This would become her signature type throughout her acting career.

Action Stardom: Lara Croft and Beyond

The 2001 film “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider” established Jolie as a major action star, the rare actress capable of carrying a blockbuster action franchise. Her physical transformation for the role—developing significant strength and athleticism—demonstrated her commitment to craft and established her as a physically credible action heroine.

She reprised the role in “Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life” (2003) and continued action work with “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” (2005), “Wanted” (2008), “Salt” (2010), and “The Tourist” (2010). These films grossed hundreds of millions worldwide, making her one of the most bankable female stars in Hollywood.

Critical Acclaim: Beyond Action

While Jolie achieved massive commercial success in action films, she maintained credibility as a dramatic actress. Her performances in: - “Gia” (1998) - HBO biopic of model Gia Carangi, earning her a Golden Globe - “Original Sin” (2001) - Period thriller - “Beyond Borders” (2003) - Humanitarian drama - “A Mighty Heart” (2007) - As Mariane Pearl, earning critical acclaim - “Changeling” (2008) - Clint Eastwood drama, earning an Oscar nomination - “The Good Shepherd” (2006) - Robert De Niro’s CIA epic

demonstrated her range and commitment to challenging material.

Directorial Career

Beginning with “In the Land of Blood and Honey” (2011), Jolie established herself as a serious filmmaker addressing complex geopolitical themes. Her directorial work includes:

• “In the Land of Blood and Honey” (2011) - Bosnian War drama
• “Unbroken” (2014) - World War II survival epic
• “By the Sea” (2015) - Marital drama starring with Brad Pitt
• “First They Killed My Father” (2017) - Cambodian genocide film
• “Without Blood” (2024) - Latest directorial effort

These films demonstrate her interest in historical tragedy, human resilience, and international perspectives rarely represented in mainstream American cinema.

UNHCR and Humanitarian Work

Jolie’s most significant legacy may be her humanitarian work. Appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNHCR in 2001, she conducted over 60 field missions to conflict zones and refugee camps worldwide. In 2012, she was promoted to Special Envoy, focusing on major crises resulting in mass displacement.

Her field work has taken her to: - Sierra Leone, Tanzania, and Kenya (2001) - Cambodia, Thailand, and Ecuador (2001-2002) - Iraq, Jordan, and Lebanon (various dates) - Pakistan and Afghanistan (multiple visits) - Syria and surrounding refugee camps - Numerous other crisis zones worldwide

She has used her celebrity to bring attention to ignored conflicts and has personally funded significant aid projects.

Jolie-Pitt Foundation and Philanthropy

With former husband Brad Pitt, Jolie established the Jolie-Pitt Foundation, supporting various humanitarian causes globally. She has donated millions to: - Education programs in developing countries - Conservation efforts, particularly in Cambodia - Medical aid for refugees - Women’s rights organizations - Conservation of endangered wildlife

Her personal contributions have exceeded typical celebrity philanthropy, reflecting genuine commitment rather than tax-advantaged giving.

Personal Life in the Public Eye

Jolie’s personal life has been subject to intense media scrutiny throughout her career. Her relationships, including marriages to Jonny Lee Miller and Billy Bob Thornton, and her long-term partnership with Brad Pitt, have generated tabloid coverage worldwide.

Her 2013 op-ed in The New York Times, “My Medical Choice,” in which she discussed her preventive double mastectomy after testing positive for the BRCA1 gene mutation, had significant public health impact. The disclosure increased awareness of genetic testing for breast cancer risk and likely saved lives by encouraging women to seek screening.

Family and Motherhood

Jolie is mother to six children: - Maddox (adopted from Cambodia, 2002) - Pax (adopted from Vietnam, 2007) - Zahara (adopted from Ethiopia, 2005) - Shiloh (biological, born 2006) - Knox and Vivienne (biological twins, born 2008)

Her decision to adopt internationally and create a multicultural family reflected her global awareness and commitment to children in need. She has raised her children with exposure to their birth cultures and has homeschooled them with international curriculums.

Awards and Recognition

Acting Awards

• Academy Award - Best Supporting Actress for “Girl, Interrupted” (2000)
• Three Golden Globe Awards - For “Gia,” “Girl, Interrupted,” and “The Tourist”
• Screen Actors Guild Award for “Girl, Interrupted”
• Multiple nominations for “A Mighty Heart,” “Changeling,” and “The Tourist”

Humanitarian Awards

• Citizen of the World Award from the United Nations Correspondents Association
• Church World Service Humanitarian Award
• International Rescue Committee Freedom Award
• Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award from the Academy (2013)
• Damehood from Queen Elizabeth II (2014) for services to UK foreign policy and the campaign to end war zone sexual violence

Legacy and Impact

Angelina Jolie’s legacy encompasses multiple domains:

Entertainment

She established that female action stars could carry major franchises while maintaining dramatic credibility. Her directing career, while selective, addresses serious international themes often ignored by mainstream cinema.

Humanitarianism

Her UNHCR work brought unprecedented celebrity attention to refugee crises. She has testified before Congress, addressed the UN Security Council, and influenced policy discussions on displacement and sexual violence in conflict zones.

Public Health

Her openness about her preventive mastectomy increased genetic testing rates for BRCA mutations. This single disclosure had measurable public health impact.

Family and Adoption

Her multicultural family and vocal support for international adoption brought attention to orphaned children worldwide.

Summary of Achievements

• Academy Award-winning actress
• Critically acclaimed director
• UNHCR Special Envoy
• Over $100 million in personal charitable donations
• Dame Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George
• Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award recipient
• Mother of six children from diverse backgrounds
• Global advocate for refugees and women’s rights

Angelina Jolie continues to balance her entertainment career with humanitarian work, using her platform to advocate for the voiceless while creating meaningful art. Her life demonstrates the potential for celebrity to serve as a force for global good.

Angelina Jolie: Early Life and Formative Years

Hollywood Royalty: Birth and Family

Angelina Jolie Voight was born on June 4, 1975, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California, into one of Hollywood’s most prominent acting families. Her father, Jon Voight, had won the Academy Award for Best Actor for “Coming Home” in 1979, the year of Angelina’s birth. Her mother, Marcheline Bertrand, was also an actress, though she had largely stepped back from her career to focus on family.

The Jolie name itself carried significant Hollywood weight—her godparents were Jacqueline Bisset and Maximilian Schell, both acclaimed actors. This immersion in cinema royalty from birth meant that Angelina was exposed to the entertainment industry’s highest levels from her earliest memories.

Parents’ Separation and Its Impact

When Angelina was just eleven months old, her parents separated. The divorce was highly publicized and contentious, creating a fractured family dynamic that would profoundly influence Jolie’s emotional development. Marcheline gained primary custody, raising Angelina and her older brother James Haven largely as a single mother in New York and later Los Angeles.

Jolie’s relationship with her father became strained over the years. The separation created an emotional wound that would manifest in her early adult life through various rebellious behaviors. She would later describe feeling abandoned by her father and the impact this had on her self-image and relationships.

Childhood in New York and Los Angeles

Following the separation, Marcheline moved with the children to New York City, hoping to distance them from Hollywood’s pressures. Angelina attended the exclusive Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute, where she received early acting training alongside other children of celebrities. This formal training, beginning at age eleven, provided technical foundation for her future career.

The family later returned to Los Angeles, where Angelina attended Beverly Hills High School. Despite her privileged background, she felt like an outsider among the wealthy students—her mother had limited financial means compared to the billionaires’ children who populated the school. She was teased for her thin frame, glasses, and braces, experiences that contributed to her feelings of isolation.

Early Interest in Film and Performance

From an early age, Jolie was fascinated by film. She and her brother would create their own movies using their mother’s video camera, developing an early understanding of cinema’s possibilities. She would watch her father’s films and study the performances of actors she admired.

Her early acting training at the Lee Strasberg Institute emphasized Method acting techniques, which would influence her approach to dramatic roles throughout her career. Even as a child, she showed intense commitment to character work and emotional truth.

Adolescent Rebellion and Self-Discovery

Jolie’s teenage years were marked by significant rebellion and self-destructive behavior. She developed a reputation as a “bad girl,” engaging in: - Experimentation with drugs, including heroin and cocaine - Self-harm, including cutting - Piercings and tattoos as forms of self-expression - Exploration of alternative subcultures

She has spoken openly about these struggles, attributing them to a search for identity and a way to feel something amid emotional numbness. The death of her mother’s close friend, who was like an aunt to Angelina, deeply affected her and contributed to her emotional turbulence.

Modeling and Early Professional Work

At age 14, Jolie began modeling, partly at her mother’s suggestion and partly as a way to earn money. She appeared in various music videos and small modeling jobs, though she never achieved significant success in the field. Her unique look—combining her father’s strong features with her mother’s delicate beauty—was considered too unconventional for mainstream modeling of the era.

She also began studying at the MET Theatre in Los Angeles, continuing her acting training while finishing high school. Her dedication to acting as a craft distinguished her from other celebrity children who relied on family connections.

Relationship with Her Father

Jolie’s relationship with Jon Voight remained complicated throughout her youth. Periods of reconciliation alternated with estrangement. In 2002, Voight gave an interview suggesting his daughter had serious mental problems, leading to a complete break in their relationship that would last for years.

This public airing of family dysfunction was painful for Jolie, who valued privacy despite her eventual fame. She would later reconcile with her father, particularly after the birth of her own children, understanding parenthood differently.

Mother’s Influence and Death

Marcheline Bertrand was the dominant influence on Jolie’s early life and development. A devoted mother who sacrificed her own career for her children, Marcheline instilled values of compassion and global awareness that would later define Jolie’s humanitarian work.

In 1999, Marcheline was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Jolie became her primary caregiver, a role that would inform her later medical decisions. Marcheline died in January 2007, a loss that devastated Jolie and coincided with her adoption of her first son, Maddox.

The loss of her mother profoundly affected Jolie’s priorities, contributing to her increased focus on family and humanitarian work rather than pure career advancement.

Professional Acting Beginnings

Jolie’s professional acting career began with small roles in her father’s films, including “Lookin’ to Get Out” (1982), where five-year-old Angelina appeared alongside her father. She later trained at the Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute and appeared in various student films and theater productions.

Her early professional work included: - Music videos for artists including Lenny Kravitz, Meat Loaf, and The Rolling Stones - Small roles in films like “Cyborg 2” (1993) - Theater productions in Los Angeles

These experiences, while not particularly prestigious, built her resume and provided practical experience.

Breakthrough in Hackers

The 1995 film “Hackers” provided Jolie with her first significant film role and her first public attention. Playing Kate, a computer hacker alongside Jonny Lee Miller, Jolie brought edgy energy and sexual confidence that announced her as a compelling screen presence.

The film was not commercially successful but became a cult favorite, and Jolie’s performance caught the attention of casting directors. More importantly, she met Jonny Lee Miller on set, beginning a relationship that would lead to marriage.

Early Career Struggles and Growth

Following “Hackers,” Jolie appeared in various independent films and music videos throughout the mid-1990s. These included: - “Mojave Moon” (1996) - “Love Is All There Is” (1996) - “Playing God” (1997) - “Gia” (1998) - HBO biopic that would transform her career

The period between 1995 and 1998 was characterized by steady work without major breakthrough. She supported herself through acting while continuing to develop her craft and waiting for the role that would change everything.

The Gia Transformation

HBO’s “Gia” (1998), in which Jolie played supermodel Gia Carangi, represented a turning point. To prepare for the role, Jolie: - Studied extensive video footage of the real Gia - Worked with acting coach Ivana Chubbuck on emotional preparation - Underwent physical training to match Gia’s athletic build - Explored themes of addiction and self-destruction she understood personally

The performance earned her a Golden Globe and her first Emmy nomination, establishing her as a serious actress capable of transformative work. “Gia” proved that Jolie was more than a celebrity’s daughter—she was a formidable talent in her own right.

Conclusion

Angelina Jolie’s early life was shaped by privilege and pain in equal measure. Born into Hollywood royalty but fractured by family divorce, she experienced both the advantages of access and the wounds of abandonment. Her rebellious youth, while difficult, provided emotional depth and life experience that would inform her most powerful performances.

The loss of her mother, the reconciliation with her father, and her early professional struggles all contributed to the complex woman who would become one of the world’s most famous actresses and humanitarians. Her early years demonstrate that even those born to privilege must forge their own paths and overcome their own demons.

Angelina Jolie: Career Trajectory and Breakthrough

Early Career: Finding Her Footing (1993-1997)

Angelina Jolie’s professional acting career began with small roles that provided experience but little recognition. Her first significant credit came with “Cyborg 2” (1993), a direct-to-video science fiction film where she played a cyborg assassin. While the film was not critically acclaimed, it gave her early experience in genre filmmaking and action performance.

The 1995 film “Hackers” marked her first theatrical release of note. Playing Kate, a teenage computer hacker, Jolie brought an edgy, rebellious energy that resonated with young audiences. The film developed a cult following despite box office disappointment, and Jolie’s performance was singled out as a highlight. During production, she met her first husband, Jonny Lee Miller, establishing a personal connection that would influence her early adulthood.

Throughout the mid-1990s, Jolie appeared in various independent films including “Mojave Moon” (1996), “Love Is All There Is” (1996), and “Playing God” (1997) opposite David Duchovny. These roles demonstrated her willingness to take risks on smaller projects but failed to establish her as a major star.

The HBO Breakthrough: Gia (1998)

Jolie’s career transformation came with HBO’s “Gia” (1998), a biographical film about supermodel Gia Carangi. The role required extraordinary commitment—Jolie had to portray Carangi’s rise to fame, her lesbian relationships, and her eventual decline and death from AIDS-related complications.

To prepare, Jolie: - Studied extensive archival footage of Gia - Worked with acting coach Ivana Chubbuck using emotional recall techniques - Underwent physical training to match Gia’s athletic build - Engaged with the LGBTQ+ community to understand Gia’s relationships authentically

The performance earned her a Golden Globe Award and an Emmy nomination, establishing her as a serious dramatic actress. More importantly, it proved she could carry a film and deliver emotionally devastating performances.

Girl, Interrupted: Oscar Glory (1999)

James Mangold’s “Girl, Interrupted” (1999), based on Susanna Kaysen’s memoir, provided Jolie with the role that would define her career. As Lisa Rowe, the charismatic, dangerous, and magnetic resident of a psychiatric ward, Jolie stole every scene she appeared in.

While Winona Ryder starred as the protagonist, Jolie’s supporting performance dominated the film. She brought terrifying intensity and dark magnetism to Lisa, creating a character who was simultaneously repulsive and irresistible. The performance earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, the Screen Actors Guild Award, and the Golden Globe.

At the Oscar ceremony, Jolie’s acceptance speech—during which she declared her love for her brother and wore white and a blood vial necklace—generated significant media attention and established her reputation for eccentricity.

Leading Lady Status (2000-2003)

Following her Oscar win, Jolie transitioned to leading roles in major studio films:

Gone in 60 Seconds (2000)

The Jerry Bruckheimer action film cast Jolie opposite Nicolas Cage. While primarily eye candy, the role positioned her as a mainstream star and introduced her to blockbuster filmmaking.

Original Sin (2001)

This erotic thriller with Antonio Banderas allowed Jolie to explore her sexuality on screen, though the film received poor reviews. It demonstrated her willingness to take risks and embrace controversial material.

Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001)

The video game adaptation transformed Jolie into a global action star. Her physical transformation—developing significant muscle tone and learning to perform stunts—proved her commitment to the role. The film grossed over $274 million worldwide and established her as a female action hero.

Life or Something Like It (2002)

This romantic drama demonstrated her ability to anchor a film as a traditional leading lady, though it received mixed reviews.

Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life (2003)

The sequel, while less successful than the original, maintained her action star status and further developed her physical capabilities.

Beyond Borders and Humanitarian Turn (2003)

“Beyond Borders” (2003), a film about humanitarian aid workers, coincided with Jolie’s transformation into a real-life humanitarian. While the film was not commercially successful, it reflected her growing interest in global issues that would define her later career.

During this period, Jolie began her work with UNHCR, eventually leading to her appointment as Goodwill Ambassador. Her career began to reflect her evolving values, with role selection increasingly influenced by social consciousness.

Mr. & Mrs. Smith and Global Superstardom (2005)

Doug Liman’s “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” (2005) transformed Jolie from movie star to global icon. The action comedy, in which she and Brad Pitt played married assassins unknowingly assigned to kill each other, was massively successful and generated one of Hollywood’s most famous off-screen romances.

The film grossed nearly $500 million worldwide and became a cultural phenomenon. Jolie’s chemistry with Pitt was undeniable, and their subsequent real-life relationship would dominate tabloid coverage for years. The film demonstrated her ability to combine action, comedy, and sexuality in a crowd-pleasing package.

A Mighty Heart and Critical Credibility (2007)

Michael Winterbottom’s “A Mighty Heart” (2007) cast Jolie as Mariane Pearl, the widow of journalist Daniel Pearl who was kidnapped and murdered in Pakistan. Jolie underwent significant physical transformation—including wearing prosthetics to match Pearl’s appearance—and delivered a restrained, dignified performance.

The film earned her critical praise and demonstrated her commitment to serious, socially relevant material. While not a commercial success, it maintained her credibility as an actress of range and depth.

The Changeling and Second Oscar Nomination (2008)

Clint Eastwood’s “Changeling” (2008) brought Jolie her first Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. As Christine Collins, a mother whose son disappears and is replaced by an imposter in 1928 Los Angeles, Jolie delivered a performance of devastating emotional intensity.

The role required her to portray a woman’s breakdown and institutionalization while fighting for justice. The performance earned widespread critical acclaim and established her as a serious dramatic actress capable of carrying prestige films.

Salt and Wanted: Action Excellence (2008-2010)

“Wanted” (2008) and “Salt” (2010) demonstrated Jolie’s dominance as an action star. In “Wanted,” she played Fox, an assassin who trains James McAvoy’s character. Her physical performance, including a scene where she curves bullets around obstacles, showcased her action capabilities.

“Salt” was conceived as a Tom Cruise vehicle but was rewritten for Jolie when Cruise dropped out. The film grossed nearly $300 million and proved that a female action star could carry a spy thriller traditionally dominated by male actors.

The Tourist and Critical Setbacks (2010)

Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck’s “The Tourist” (2010), co-starring Johnny Depp, received overwhelmingly negative reviews despite commercial success. Jolie earned a Golden Globe nomination but also a Razzie nomination, reflecting the film’s polarized reception.

This period marked a shift in Jolie’s career priorities. With six children to raise and her humanitarian work expanding, she began reducing her acting output significantly.

Directorial Career (2011-Present)

In the Land of Blood and Honey (2011)

Jolie’s directorial debut was a Bosnian War drama about a romance between a Bosnian Serb soldier and a Bosnian Muslim woman. Filmed in both Bosnian and Serbian languages with local actors, the film demonstrated serious artistic ambition despite mixed reviews.

Unbroken (2014)

Her second directorial effort told the true story of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic runner who survived a plane crash and Japanese POW camps during World War II. The film was technically accomplished and earned several Oscar nominations, establishing Jolie as a director of serious intent.

By the Sea (2015)

This marital drama, in which she starred with Brad Pitt, was poorly received and coincided with the deterioration of their marriage. The film’s depiction of a struggling marriage seemed to reflect real-life tensions.

First They Killed My Father (2017)

Jolie’s Cambodian genocide film, told from a child’s perspective, represented her most acclaimed directorial work. Filmed in Cambodia with Cambodian actors and the Khmer language, the film earned respect for its authenticity and emotional power.

Maleficent and Franchise Work (2014-2019)

Robert Stromberg’s “Maleficent” (2014) cast Jolie as the “Sleeping Beauty” villain, reimagining her as a misunderstood antihero. The film grossed over $750 million worldwide and became Jolie’s highest-grossing film. She reprised the role in “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil” (2019).

These films allowed her to combine her star power with family-friendly content suitable for her own children, reflecting her changed priorities as a mother.

Recent Acting Work (2019-Present)

Jolie has significantly reduced her acting output in recent years, focusing on directing, producing, and her humanitarian work. She appeared in: - “Come Away” (2020) - Supporting role - “Those Who Wish Me Dead” (2021) - Action thriller - “Eternals” (2021) - MCU film as Thena

Her appearances have become increasingly selective, reflecting her evolved career priorities.

Career Summary and Evolution

Angelina Jolie’s career trajectory demonstrates remarkable range and evolution. From her early typecasting as a wild child and action vixen, she developed into an acclaimed dramatic actress, then a director of serious films addressing historical trauma and human rights. Her career choices increasingly reflected her personal values, prioritizing projects with social relevance over pure commercial appeal.

While her later career has emphasized humanitarian work and directing over acting, her filmography includes iconic performances that have influenced popular culture and expanded possibilities for women in action cinema. Her transition from controversial wild child to respected filmmaker and humanitarian represents one of Hollywood’s most significant personal and professional evolutions.

Angelina Jolie: Complete Filmography

Feature Films

Early Career (1982-1995)

• Lookin’ to Get Out (1982) - Tosh (as Angelina Jolie Voight)
• Cyborg 2 (1993) - Casella “Cash” Reese
• Without Evidence (1995) - Jodie Swearingen
• Hackers (1995) - Kate
• Mojave Moon (1996) - Eleanor “Elie” Rigby
• Love Is All There Is (1996) - Gina Malacici
• Foxfire (1996) - Margret “Legs” Sadovsky

Rising Star (1997-1999)

• True Women (1997) - Georgia Virginia Lawshe Woods (TV film)
• George Wallace (1997) - Cornelia Wallace (TV film)
• Playing God (1997) - Claire
• Gia (1998) - Gia Carangi (TV film)
• Hell’s Kitchen (1998) - Gloria McNeary
• Pushing Tin (1999) - Mary Bell
• The Bone Collector (1999) - Amelia Donaghy
• Girl, Interrupted (1999) - Lisa Rowe

Leading Lady (2000-2004)

• Gone in 60 Seconds (2000) - Sara “Sway” Wayland
• Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001) - Lara Croft
• Original Sin (2001) - Julia Russell / Bonny Castle
• Life or Something Like It (2002) - Lanie Kerrigan
• Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life (2003) - Lara Croft
• Beyond Borders (2003) - Sarah Jordan
• Taking Lives (2004) - Illeana Scott
• Alexander (2004) - Olympias
• Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow (2004) - Franky Cook
• Shark Tale (2004) - Lola (voice)

Global Superstar (2005-2010)

• Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005) - Jane Smith
• The Good Shepherd (2006) - Margaret “Clover” Russell
• A Mighty Heart (2007) - Mariane Pearl
• Beowulf (2007) - Grendel’s Mother
• Kung Fu Panda (2008) - Master Tigress (voice)
• Wanted (2008) - Fox
• Changeling (2008) - Christine Collins
• Salt (2010) - Evelyn Salt
• The Tourist (2010) - Elise Clifton-Ward

Established Icon (2011-2019)

• Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011) - Master Tigress (voice)
• Maleficent (2014) - Maleficent
• By the Sea (2015) - Vanessa
• Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019) - Maleficent

Recent Work (2020-Present)

• Come Away (2020) - Rose Littleton
• The One and Only Ivan (2020) - Stella (voice)
• Those Who Wish Me Dead (2021) - Hannah Faber
• Eternals (2021) - Thena
• The Sea Beast (2022) - Sarah Sharpe (voice)
• Without Blood (2024) - Director only

Television

Miniseries and Television Films

• True Women (1997) - Georgia Virginia Lawshe Woods (CBS miniseries)
• George Wallace (1997) - Cornelia Wallace (TNT film)
• Gia (1998) - Gia Carangi (HBO film)
• Dreams of Glory: The Lisa Lesley Story (1999) - (Unaired pilot)
• Patrick (2004) - (Unaired pilot, producer)

Voice Work

• King of the Hill (2001) - Substitute teacher (voice, 1 episode)
• The Kohl Show (2001) - Herself (1 episode)

Director Filmography

Feature Films

• In the Land of Blood and Honey (2011) - Director, writer, producer
• Unbroken (2014) - Director, producer
• By the Sea (2015) - Director, writer, producer
• First They Killed My Father (2017) - Director, producer, writer
• Without Blood (2024) - Director, writer

Documentaries

• A Place in Time (2007) - Director, producer

Producer Credits

Feature Films

• In the Land of Blood and Honey (2011)
• Difret (2014) - Executive producer
• Unbroken (2014)
• By the Sea (2015)
• The Breadwinner (2017) - Executive producer
• First They Killed My Father (2017)
• The One and Only Ivan (2020)
• Without Blood (2024)

Television

• The Jane Pittman Story (2014) - TV film, executive producer
• Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019)

Video Games

• Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001) - Voice and likeness for promotional materials
• Maleficent Free Fall (2014) - Voice

Music Videos

• The Rolling Stones - “Anybody Seen My Baby?” (1997) - Angel
• Meat Loaf - “Rock and Roll Dreams Come Through” (1993) - Angel
• Lenny Kravitz - “Stand by My Woman” (1991)
• Antonello Venditti - “Alta Marea” (1991)

Documentary Appearances

As Subject

• A Place in Time (2007) - Director and subject
• Notes from My Travels (Various) - Documentaries about her UNHCR work
• Angelina Jolie: The Humanitarian (Various)

As Contributor

• The Making of ‘Lara Croft: Tomb Raider’ (2001)
• The Making of ‘Alexander’ (2004)
• The Making of ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ (2005)
• True Story: Mariane Pearl (2007)
• The Making of ‘The Changeling’ (2008)
• The Making of ‘Maleficent’ (2014)

Box Office Performance

Jolie’s films have grossed over $6 billion worldwide: - Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001) - $274.7 million - Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005) - $487.3 million - Kung Fu Panda (2008) - $631.7 million - Wanted (2008) - $341.4 million - Salt (2010) - $293.5 million - Maleficent (2014) - $758.5 million - Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019) - $491.7 million - Eternals (2021) - $402 million

Awards Consideration Performances

Academy Award Wins

• 2000 - Best Supporting Actress for “Girl, Interrupted”

Academy Award Nominations

• 2009 - Best Actress for “Changeling”
• 2009 - Best Actress for “A Mighty Heart” (Satellite Awards)

Golden Globe Wins

• 1998 - Best Supporting Actress in a Series for “George Wallace”
• 1999 - Best Actress in a Miniseries for “Gia”
• 2000 - Best Supporting Actress for “Girl, Interrupted”

Summary Statistics

• Total Feature Films as Actress: 40+
• Films as Director: 5
• Academy Award: 1 win, 1 nomination
• Golden Globes: 3 wins, 4 nominations
• Worldwide Box Office: Over $6 billion

Angelina Jolie’s filmography represents one of the most diverse and commercially successful careers in contemporary cinema, spanning action blockbusters, prestige dramas, voice work, and significant directorial achievements.

Angelina Jolie: Awards and Recognition

Academy Awards

Wins

• 2000 - Best Supporting Actress for “Girl, Interrupted” (as Lisa Rowe)

Nominations

• 2009 - Best Actress for “Changeling” (as Christine Collins)
• 2009 - Best Actress for “A Mighty Heart” (as Mariane Pearl)

Jolie’s win for “Girl, Interrupted” was particularly notable given her relatively short screen time and the film’s ensemble nature. Her performance as the charismatic, dangerous psychiatric patient Lisa Rowe is widely considered one of the most memorable supporting performances in Oscar history.

Golden Globe Awards

Wins

• 1998 - Best Supporting Actress in a Series, Miniseries or Television Film for “George Wallace” (as Cornelia Wallace)
• 1999 - Best Actress in a Miniseries or Television Film for “Gia” (as Gia Carangi)
• 2000 - Best Supporting Actress for “Girl, Interrupted” (as Lisa Rowe)

Nominations

• 1999 - Best Actress in a Motion Picture Drama for “The Bone Collector”
• 2002 - Best Actress in a Motion Picture Drama for “Original Sin”
• 2008 - Best Actress in a Motion Picture Drama for “A Mighty Heart”
• 2009 - Best Actress in a Motion Picture Drama for “Changeling”
• 2011 - Best Actress in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for “The Tourist”

Screen Actors Guild Awards

Wins

• 2000 - Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role for “Girl, Interrupted”

Nominations

• 2008 - Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role for “A Mighty Heart”
• 2009 - Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role for “Changeling”

Emmy Awards

Nominations

• 1998 - Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or Special for “George Wallace”
• 1999 - Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Movie for “Gia”

BAFTA Awards

Nominations

• 2009 - Best Actress in a Leading Role for “Changeling”
• 2015 - Best Director for “Unbroken”

Academy Honorary Award

• 2013 - Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her extensive humanitarian work with UNHCR and global causes

This honorary Oscar recognized Jolie’s work as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador and Special Envoy, acknowledging her use of celebrity to bring attention to refugee crises and humanitarian causes worldwide.

Humanitarian Awards and Honors

United Nations Recognition

• 2003 - First UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
• 2012 - Promoted to UNHCR Special Envoy
• Citizen of the World Award - United Nations Correspondents Association

Major Humanitarian Honors

• 2005 - Global Humanitarian Award from the United Nations Association of the USA
• 2007 - International Rescue Committee’s Freedom Award
• 2011 - UNCA Global Citizen of the Year Award
• 2014 - Damehood - Honorary Dame Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (DCMG) from Queen Elizabeth II for services to UK foreign policy and the campaign to end war zone sexual violence

Other Philanthropic Recognition

• Church World Service Humanitarian Award
• Epiphany Prize - For “Beyond Borders”
• Jolie-Pitt Foundation recognition for various charitable initiatives
• Women’s Media Center - Recognition for advocacy

Film Festival Awards

Venice Film Festival

• 1998 - Best Actress (Special Award) for “Gia”

Screen Actors Guild Awards (Additional)

• 2008 - Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture for “A Mighty Heart” (ensemble nomination)

MTV Movie Awards

Wins

• 2006 - Best Fight for “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” (shared with Brad Pitt)
• 2008 - Best Villain for “Beowulf”
• 2014 - Best Villain for “Maleficent”

Nominations

• Multiple nominations for “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider,” “Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” “Wanted,” and “Salt”

Teen Choice Awards

Jolie has received numerous Teen Choice Awards and nominations, particularly for her action roles: - Choice Movie Villain for “Maleficent” - Choice Movie Actress for various action films - Choice Movie Chemistry for “Mr. & Mrs. Smith”

Saturn Awards

Wins

• 2009 - Best Actress for “Changeling”
• 2015 - Best Supporting Actress for “Maleficent”

People’s Choice Awards

Wins

• 2010 - Favorite Action Star
• 2014 - Favorite Movie Actress
• 2015 - Favorite Movie Actress
• 2016 - Favorite Action Movie Actress

Golden Raspberry Awards

Nominations

• 2002 - Worst Actress for “Original Sin” and “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider”
• 2004 - Worst Actress for “Beyond Borders” and “Alexander”
• 2011 - Worst Actress for “The Tourist” and “Salt”

These nominations reflect the critical reception of some of her commercial work, though they stand in contrast to her acclaimed dramatic performances.

Hollywood Walk of Fame

• 2013 - Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6925 Hollywood Boulevard

Directing Awards

Hollywood Film Awards

• 2014 - Hollywood Film Award for “Unbroken”

Critics’ Choice Movie Awards

• 2015 - Nomination for Best Director for “Unbroken”

Various Festival Honors

• Heartland Film Festival - Truly Moving Picture Award for “Unbroken”
• Palm Springs International Film Festival - Breakthrough Performance Award (Director) for “Unbroken”

Summary of Achievements

Acting Awards

• Academy Awards: 1 win, 2 nominations
• Golden Globes: 3 wins, 5 nominations
• Screen Actors Guild Awards: 1 win, 2 nominations
• Emmy Awards: 2 nominations

Humanitarian Awards

• Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award (Academy)
• Dame Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George
• Multiple UN and international humanitarian honors

Box Office Success

• Films grossing over $6 billion worldwide
• One of the highest-grossing actresses in history
• Star of multiple billion-dollar franchises

Angelina Jolie’s awards and recognition reflect her dual legacy as both a celebrated actress and dedicated humanitarian. Her Academy Award win for “Girl, Interrupted” established her as a major talent, while her Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award recognized her extraordinary commitment to global causes. The combination of entertainment honors and humanitarian recognition makes her one of the most decorated figures in contemporary Hollywood.

Angelina Jolie: Personal Life, Relationships, and Philanthropy

Early Relationships and Marriages

Jonny Lee Miller (1996-1999)

Jolie met British actor Jonny Lee Miller on the set of “Hackers” (1995). They married in March 1996 in a ceremony that became famous for Jolie’s unconventional attire—she wore black rubber pants and a white shirt with Miller’s name written in her own blood on the back. The marriage was brief, ending in separation in 1997 and divorce in 1999. They remained on friendly terms, with Jolie later describing Miller as a good person and remaining part of her life.

Billy Bob Thornton (2000-2003)

Jolie’s second marriage was to actor Billy Bob Thornton, whom she met while filming “Pushing Tin” (1999). They married in May 2000 in Las Vegas. The relationship was notoriously passionate and unconventional, with the couple wearing vials of each other’s blood around their necks and making provocative public statements about their sex life.

The marriage was intense but short-lived, ending in divorce in May 2003. During this period, Jolie adopted her first child, Maddox, from Cambodia. The adoption was initially processed with Thornton as father, though Jolie adopted Maddox as a single parent after their separation.

Brad Pitt and the Brangelina Era (2004-2016)

Relationship Development

Jolie met Brad Pitt on the set of “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” (2005). At the time, Pitt was married to Jennifer Aniston, and their subsequent relationship became one of the most famous celebrity love triangles in Hollywood history. Pitt and Aniston announced their separation in January 2005, and Jolie and Pitt’s relationship became public shortly after.

Expanding Family

Jolie and Pitt quickly became known for their expanding, multicultural family:

• Maddox Chivan (born 2001, adopted 2002) - From Cambodia
• Pax Thien (born 2003, adopted 2007) - From Vietnam
• Zahara Marley (born 2005, adopted 2005) - From Ethiopia
• Shiloh Nouvel (born 2006) - Biological, born in Namibia
• Knox Léon and Vivienne Marcheline (born 2008) - Biological twins, born in France

Jolie and Pitt were deliberate about exposing their children to their birth cultures, taking them to their countries of origin and ensuring they maintained connections to their heritage.

Marriage and Divorce

After nearly a decade together, Jolie and Pitt married in August 2014 at their estate in France, Château Miraval. The ceremony was small and private, with their children participating in the wedding.

In September 2016, Jolie filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. The divorce proceedings became contentious, particularly regarding custody of their six children. The divorce was finalized in 2019, though custody and financial arrangements continued to be negotiated. Jolie was awarded primary physical custody, with Pitt granted visitation rights.

Health Challenges and Medical Decisions

Preventive Double Mastectomy (2013)

In a groundbreaking New York Times op-ed titled “My Medical Choice” (May 14, 2013), Jolie revealed she had undergone a preventive double mastectomy after testing positive for the BRCA1 gene mutation, which significantly increased her risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Her mother had died of ovarian cancer at age 56, and Jolie chose to take proactive measures.

The disclosure had massive public health impact: - Increased awareness of genetic testing for BRCA mutations - Sharp increase in women seeking genetic counseling (the “Angelina Jolie effect”) - Reduced stigma around preventive mastectomy - Conversations about women’s health and autonomy

Preventive Oophorectomy (2015)

Jolie underwent another preventive surgery in 2015, having her ovaries and fallopian tubes removed after showing early signs of potential cancer. She wrote about this experience in another Times op-ed, continuing to raise awareness about women’s health issues.

United Nations and Humanitarian Work

UNHCR Appointment (2001)

Jolie’s humanitarian work began in earnest when she was appointed a Goodwill Ambassador for UNHCR in 2001. Over the next decade, she conducted over 60 field missions to conflict zones and refugee camps in: - Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Kenya (2001) - Cambodia, Pakistan, Ecuador (2001-2002) - Iraq, Jordan, Egypt, Congo (2003-2004) - Chad, Darfur region (2007) - Syria, Jordan, Lebanon (various dates) - Afghanistan, Pakistan (various dates)

Special Envoy (2012)

In 2012, Jolie was promoted to Special Envoy, focusing on major crises resulting in mass displacement. In this capacity, she: - Represented UNHCR at the diplomatic level - Focused on large-scale displacement crises - Engaged with governments on refugee policy - Addressed the UN Security Council multiple times

Preventing Sexual Violence Initiative

Jolie co-founded the Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative (PSVI) with British Foreign Secretary William Hague in 2012. The initiative aims to end impunity for sexual violence in conflict zones and support survivors. This work earned her the Damehood from Queen Elizabeth II.

The Jolie-Pitt Foundation

With Brad Pitt, Jolie established the Jolie-Pitt Foundation, which has donated millions to various causes: - Education programs in developing countries - Healthcare initiatives - Conservation efforts - Emergency relief

Personal Characteristics and Public Image

Reputation for Intensity

Jolie is known for her intense, committed approach to everything she undertakes, whether acting, directing, or humanitarian work. This intensity has been both praised and criticized throughout her career.

Privacy and Control

Despite her fame, Jolie has maintained relatively tight control over her image and private life. She rarely discusses her relationships in detail and has taken legal action against publications that violate her family’s privacy.

Relationship with Her Father

Jolie’s relationship with her father, Jon Voight, has been strained throughout her adult life. After Voight gave an interview in 2002 suggesting she had serious mental problems, they were estranged for years. They have reconciled to some degree, particularly after the death of Jolie’s mother, but the relationship remains complicated.

Current Status

As of the 2020s, Jolie focuses primarily on: - Her six children and their upbringing - Her humanitarian work with UNHCR and related organizations - Directing films that address social issues - Selective acting projects

She has largely stepped back from the Hollywood social scene, focusing her time on her family and global advocacy work.

Controversies and Challenges

Adoption Controversies

Jolie’s international adoptions have sometimes generated controversy: - Questions about adoption procedures in Cambodia - Allegations (unproven) regarding Zahara’s adoption from Ethiopia - General scrutiny of celebrity adoptions from developing countries

Jolie has consistently maintained that all adoptions were conducted legally and with the children’s best interests in mind.

Public Scrutiny

Jolie’s personal life has been subject to intense media scrutiny throughout her career: - Her relationships and marriages - Her children’s upbringing - Her health decisions - Her physical appearance and weight

She has generally handled this scrutiny with dignity, using her platform to redirect attention to humanitarian causes.

Legacy of Personal Decisions

Jolie’s openness about her health decisions, her commitment to humanitarian work, and her multicultural family have all contributed to her legacy beyond entertainment. She has been a role model for: - Women’s health advocacy - International adoption - Humanitarian engagement - Cultural diversity in families - Using celebrity for social good

Her personal life choices—often controversial, always committed—have made her one of the most significant cultural figures of her generation.

Angelina Jolie: Legacy and Impact

Cinematic Legacy

The Antiheroine Archetype

Angelina Jolie’s portrayal of complex, often morally ambiguous women helped expand the range of female characters in Hollywood cinema. From Lisa Rowe in “Girl, Interrupted” to Maleficent in her Disney reimagining, Jolie specialized in women who defied easy categorization as heroines or villains. This work opened doors for subsequent actresses to play darker, more complex women.

The Female Action Star

Jolie’s “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider” (2001) established the template for the modern female action hero. While women had starred in action films before, Jolie demonstrated that a woman could carry a major action franchise on par with male stars. This paved the way for: - Jennifer Lawrence in “The Hunger Games” - Gal Gadot as “Wonder Woman” - Charlize Theron in “Mad Max: Fury Road” - Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow

Academy Award Success

Jolie’s Oscar win for “Girl, Interrupted” (2000) for a relatively brief but unforgettable supporting performance demonstrated the impact of scene-stealing work. Her later nomination for “Changeling” (2008) showed her ability to carry prestige dramas as a leading lady.

Humanitarian Legacy

The “Angelina Effect” on Public Health

Jolie’s 2013 New York Times op-ed about her preventive double mastectomy had measurable impact on public health: - Genetic testing rates for BRCA mutations increased significantly - Preventive mastectomy consultations rose dramatically - Awareness of hereditary cancer reached mainstream audiences - Destigmatization of preventive surgery

Medical researchers documented this phenomenon as the “Angelina Effect,” confirming that celebrity disclosure can influence health behaviors.

Refugee Advocacy

As UNHCR Special Envoy, Jolie brought unprecedented attention to refugee crises: - Field missions to over 60 countries and conflict zones - UN Security Council addresses bringing refugee issues to the highest diplomatic levels - Preventing Sexual Violence Initiative co-founded with UK government - Educational access advocacy for displaced children

Her work helped transform celebrity humanitarianism from photo opportunities to sustained, knowledgeable engagement.

Women’s Rights in Conflict

Jolie’s advocacy for survivors of sexual violence in conflict zones has contributed to: - International recognition of rape as a weapon of war - Support for the International Criminal Court’s prosecution of sexual violence - Funding for survivor support programs - The 2014 Global Summit to End Sexual Violence in Conflict

Cultural Impact

Multicultural Family Model

Jolie’s family—three biological children and three adopted from Cambodia, Ethiopia, and Vietnam—presented a model of multicultural, multiracial family that was rare in celebrity culture. She normalized: - International adoption - Maintaining children’s connections to birth cultures - Blended families across racial and national lines

Redefining Celebrity Activism

Jolie demonstrated that celebrities could engage seriously with global issues: - Learning about complex geopolitical situations - Sustained commitment over decades - Using platform for policy advocacy, not just fundraising - Willingness to challenge governments and institutions

She raised the standard for what celebrity humanitarian engagement could achieve.

Directorial Legacy

Women Directors in Hollywood

As a female director of major studio films (“Unbroken,” “First They Killed My Father”), Jolie has contributed to slowly shifting gender dynamics in Hollywood directing. While her directorial work has received mixed critical reception, her prominence has helped normalize women directing big-budget productions.

International Cinema

Jolie’s decision to film “First They Killed My Father” in Cambodia with Cambodian actors in the Khmer language demonstrated commitment to authentic representation. This approach—prioritizing cultural authenticity over star power—influenced subsequent international productions.

Fashion and Beauty Legacy

Red Carpet Icon

Jolie’s red carpet appearances, particularly her black velvet Atelier Versace gown at the 2012 Oscars with its dramatic leg slit, became instantly iconic. Her style evolution from goth-inspired young actress to sophisticated humanitarian has been widely documented and influential.

Tattoo Art

Jolie’s extensive tattoo collection—each with personal meaning—contributed to the mainstreaming of tattoo art in popular culture. Her tattoos include: - Geographic coordinates of her children’s birthplaces - Buddhist prayers - Tennessee Williams quotes - Various protective and meaningful symbols

Physical Transformation

Jolie’s willingness to undergo physical transformation for roles—including shaving her head, training for action sequences, and prosthetics—has influenced how actresses approach physically demanding parts.

Influence on Subsequent Generations

Actresses

Young actresses citing Jolie as influence include: - Jennifer Lawrence - On combining action stardom with dramatic credibility - Shailene Woodley - On balancing commercial and independent work - Various young actresses - On using platform for activism

Humanitarians

Jolie’s model of celebrity humanitarianism has influenced: - George Clooney - Darfur activism and Satellite Sentinel Project - Leonardo DiCaprio - Environmental advocacy - Emma Watson - UN Women work - Various celebrities - More sustained, informed engagement with causes

Controversies and Complications

Media Scrutiny

Jolie’s legacy includes navigating unprecedented media attention: - The “Brangelina” phenomenon and tabloid coverage - Responses to invasive coverage of her children - Managing her image while maintaining authenticity

Mixed Critical Reception

While Jolie’s stardom is unquestioned, critical opinion on her work is divided: - Some view her as a genuine movie star of the old school - Others see her as more celebrity than actress - Her directorial work has received particularly mixed reviews

This complexity itself is part of her legacy—she remains a figure who generates strong opinions and continued interest.

Institutional Recognition

Awards Summary

• Academy Award (Best Supporting Actress)
• Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award
• Three Golden Globes
• Dame Commander (British honors)
• UN awards and recognition

Hollywood Walk of Fame

• 2013 - Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Box Office Achievement

With films grossing over $6 billion worldwide, Jolie ranks among the most commercially successful actresses in history.

Conclusion

Angelina Jolie’s legacy is multifaceted and still evolving. As an actress, she redefined the female action hero and expanded possibilities for complex female characters. As a humanitarian, she transformed celebrity activism and brought unprecedented attention to refugee crises and women’s rights. As a public figure, she navigated intense scrutiny while maintaining commitment to her values.

Her influence can be seen in: - The women action stars who followed her - The celebrities who engage seriously with global issues - The increased awareness of genetic testing and preventive health measures - The normalization of multicultural families - The continued conversation about rape as a weapon of war

Whether viewed as an actress, activist, director, or celebrity, Jolie has been one of the defining cultural figures of the 21st century. Her legacy will continue to be debated, analyzed, and felt in cinema, humanitarian work, and public life for generations to come.