The San Sebastián International Film Festival has once again positioned itself as one of the most prestigious cultural events in Europe, attracting the brightest stars of world cinema. Among those who captured all the attention this year was Angelina Jolie, who attended the festival to present her latest work, Couture, directed by Alice Winocour. But while her arrival on the red carpet was celebrated for its elegance and cinematic significance, headlines quickly shifted toward an old confession about Brad Pitt that Jolie reportedly now regrets, a revelation that adds a bittersweet note to her public appearance.

Angelina Jolie at the San Sebastián Film Festival

The 73rd edition of the San Sebastián Film Festival opened with glamour and strong international representation. Angelina Jolie appeared radiant, wearing an elegant designer gown paired with a refined gold necklace, captivating photographers and fans alike. She was not just a guest of honor but also one of the protagonists of this edition, presenting Couture as part of the Official Section, where the film competes for the Golden Shell.

Couture tells the story of three women during Paris Fashion Week, weaving a narrative of ambition, tragedy, and survival within a world of luxury. Jolie plays Maxime Walker, an American filmmaker grappling with a cancer diagnosis. The role is layered with emotional intensity, aligning perfectly with Jolie’s recent artistic trajectory, where she has gravitated toward stories of resilience and human fragility. Alongside Jolie, the cast features Anyier Anei, Ella Rumpf, and Louis Garrel, ensuring the film has significant international appeal.

Her arrival at Kursaal Palace was met with great enthusiasm, as fans gathered outside to greet her. The actress showed warmth by signing autographs and acknowledging the support of those who had waited for hours. Her presence reinforced the festival’s reputation for drawing cinema’s most influential figures while confirming her enduring global star power.

A Past Confession Resurfaces

While Jolie is focusing on promoting Couture, the media has reignited discussions about her personal life, particularly her past comments about Brad Pitt. In an earlier interview, the actress had openly spoken about the early days of their relationship, recalling their connection during the filming of Mr. & Mrs. Smith in 2005. She admitted at the time that the press had given her a very different image of Pitt before they met.

“I had this preconceived idea of who he was,” she confessed in that interview. “When I met him, it was a big surprise. We ended up doing all these crazy things together and found a friendship and connection that just appeared.”

The actress even recounted how her son Maddox played an unexpected role in shaping the family dynamic. According to Jolie, Maddox called Pitt “dad,” a gesture that marked a pivotal moment in their relationship. At the time, her words painted a picture of a deep emotional bond and a new beginning for both of them.

Why Those Words Leave Her Ashamed Today

Fast forward nearly two decades, and the reality looks very different. Sources close to the actress now reveal that Jolie feels embarrassed and even ashamed of those comments. The reason is simple: the once idyllic image of Pitt as a doting partner and father no longer reflects the present situation. Reports indicate that Pitt’s relationship with his children is practically nonexistent, creating a stark contrast with the warmth and optimism Jolie expressed in the past.

The reappearance of those statements during the San Sebastián Film Festival has become an uncomfortable reminder of a chapter she would rather move past. While Jolie herself has avoided making direct comments about Pitt at the festival, the resurfacing of her confession has fueled media scrutiny, overshadowing what should have been a purely professional celebration of her work.

The Contrast Between Then and Now

The most striking element of this renewed focus is the sheer contrast between Jolie’s past and present. At the time of her relationship with Brad Pitt, she described him as a figure who brought joy and stability into her life. Today, however, the reality is defined by estrangement and ongoing family struggles.

Jolie has long emphasized her role as a dedicated mother, balancing her film career with humanitarian work and activism. Her commitment to her children is evident in her efforts to keep them away from the negative impacts of public scrutiny. For her, the priority is now family unity, even if that means distancing them from their father.

This emotional distance has also become a defining aspect of her identity in the public eye. Where she once spoke fondly of the partnership she found in Pitt, today she stands as a symbol of independence and resilience, navigating life’s challenges without him.

Professional Triumphs Amid Personal Shadows

Despite the resurfacing of these uncomfortable memories, Jolie’s participation in San Sebastián underscores her professional relevance. Couture is a project that aligns with her evolving artistic identity, as she continues to take on roles with emotional gravity and universal themes. Her portrayal of Maxime Walker offers audiences a chance to see her delve into complex storytelling, blending glamour with human vulnerability.

For Jolie, the San Sebastián Film Festival represents not only a platform to showcase her artistic work but also an opportunity to remind the world of her enduring impact on cinema. Even as personal narratives about her past resurface, her ability to remain poised and focused on her craft reflects her professionalism and determination.

A Festival Appearance with Dual Narratives

Ultimately, Jolie’s presence at the festival has carried two parallel narratives. On one hand, there is the celebration of her cinematic contribution, her elegance on the red carpet, and the anticipation surrounding Couture. On the other hand, there is the renewed focus on her past confessions about Brad Pitt, which clash with the reality of their current estrangement.

This duality mirrors the complexity of Jolie’s public life. She is both the acclaimed actress and director presenting her latest work and the woman whose personal history continues to fascinate audiences worldwide. The fact that old words still have the power to overshadow present achievements reflects the challenges faced by stars who live under constant media scrutiny.

Conclusion

The San Sebastián International Film Festival 2025 has once again highlighted the global influence of Angelina Jolie, both as an artist and as a cultural icon. Yet, even as she steps forward with new projects like Couture, she cannot fully escape the shadows of her past with Brad Pitt.

Her confession about how she once saw Pitt—words spoken in a moment of optimism and love—now stand in sharp contrast to her current reality. While she may feel ashamed of those past remarks, they serve as a reminder of how much her life has changed. Today, Jolie’s story is not about her connection to Pitt but about her resilience, her career, and her commitment to her children.

By gracefully balancing the professional spotlight with the weight of her personal history, Angelina Jolie proves once again why she remains one of the most compelling figures in Hollywood and beyond.