About Gia (HBO)

Gia is an American biographical drama released in 1998. It's a vibrant, yet heartbreaking portrayal of the life and death of the first supermodel, Gia Marie Carangi. The movie exactingly depicts her relentless pursuit of success and desire for love in the face of professional challenges and personal demons, including a battle with drug addiction that lead to her tragic death at the age of 26.

Making / Production

Directed by Michael Cristofer and produced by James D. Brubaker, the film was met with critical acclaim for its uncompromising depiction of Gia's life. Shot with a low budget and quick shooting schedule, Cristofer's vision brought a sense of raw, emotional realism to the film.

Actors

• Angelina Jolie (Gia Carangi): Angelina gave a career-defining performance as the ill-fated supermodel, showcasing incredible emotional range and depth.
• Faye Dunaway (Wilhelmina Cooper): Dunaway played the role of the authoritative yet understanding Wilhelmina Cooper, founder of a top modelling agency.
• Mercedes Ruehl (Kathleen Carangi): Mercedes portrayed Kathleen, Gia's supportive yet conflicted mother, with notable sensitivity.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film is based on the life of supermodel Gia Marie Carangi, who was one of the first notable women in America to die of AIDS.
• Angelina Jolie won a Golden Globe for her performance in this biopic.
• Jolie shared a close bond with Carangi's real-life mother who became emotional upon meeting the actress, stating that she resembled her daughter.

Awards

The film won several awards, most notably the Golden Globe Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television that was awarded to Angelina Jolie.

Quotes

• "Life and death. Energy and peace. If I stop today, it was still worth it."
• "I have to become... I have to become a, a whole person."
• "Fashion isn't about what you wear, it's about how you live."

Music, Soundtrack

• "Hello It's Me" – Todd Rundgren
• "Fade Into You" – Mazzy Star
• "The Air That I Breathe" – The Hollies