Known for her timeless elegance, Angelina Jolie surprised everyone at her latest premiere with a striking new look that left social media lit up with mixed reactions.

Angelina Jolie dazzled at the AFI Film Festival in Los Angeles on October 26, where she attended the premiere of her latest film, “Maria.”

The 49-year-old actress turned heads in a sleek, nude silk gown that hugged and accentuated her figure. She paired the outfit with a lightweight, shawl-style black jacket.

Jolie’s makeup was as striking. She opted for a bold red lipstick that matched her manicure while black eyeliner highlighted her eyes. For accessories, Jolie chose simple yet elegant drop earrings.

But it was her unexpected hairstyle that truly stole the show—and ignited talks. Instead of her usual sleek style, Jolie opted for voluminous, beachy curls with a deep side part, surprising fans and critics alike.

Social media exploded with mixed reactions. Some were quick to criticize her look. “Hair looks damaged,” one user commented. Another added, “Bad hair day.”

Someone else wrote, “She looks a mess forreal[sic].” A few critics even pointed fingers at her styling team. “Her stylist needs to be fired,” one comment read. Another person noted, “Her styling team need[sic] to go.”

Others were charmed by her bold new style. “It’s for the first time I see her in bright curly hair. Looks younger😍🙌,” said an enthusiastic fan. Another user agreed, saying, “She looks younger with this hair in this age.”

Some fans were even surprised by her transformation. “Omg I didn’t recognize her! She looks younger to me,” one admirer wrote. For others, the outfit spoke volumes, “Revenge dress😍,” someone commented with approval. Another simply stated, “Wow.”

Back in 2023, during an interview with Vogue, Jolie reflected on her evolving sense of style. The Oscar-winning actress admitted feeling uncertain about her style choices. “I felt vulnerable,” she noted. “Now I wonder if I don’t know what my style is because I’m still understanding who I am at 48. I guess I’m in transition as a person.”

Jolie took on a powerful role in “Maria,” a biopic directed by Pablo Larraín that dives into the life of the legendary opera singer Maria Callas.

Playing the American-Greek soprano, Jolie embraces the tumultuous, tragic, and fascinating journey of the late singer, bringing her own connection to the character.

At the AFI Film Festival, Jolie opened up about her bond with the role.

“I’ve played a few real people in my life and you carry them with you,” she shared. “It’s different than other characters. She’s my sister now, she’s somebody who I know quite intimately.”

Jolie’s recent appearance comes just almost two weeks after she attended another event, this time with a plus one and the two left tongues wagging. The actress and British rapper and activist Akala sparked fresh dating rumors after appearing together at the “Maria” premiere during the 68th BFI London Film Festival on October 18.

At the premiere, the “Maleficent” star exuded elegance as she walked the red carpet in a sleek black three-piece suit from Dolce & Gabbana’s men’s collection.

The acclaimed actress styled her long blonde hair with a side part and opted for minimal makeup. She finished her look with small gold stud earrings, adding a subtle hint of glamour. Similarly, Akala arrived in a style that complemented Angelina’s look.

The 40-year-old musician-activist wore a dark blue suit paired with a turtleneck and scarf, reflecting a sophisticated and polished appearance. He topped off the look with black sneakers, adding a modern touch. His loosely styled dreadlocks created a casual yet refined feel.

While the duo’s coordinated looks caught attention, reports from Page Six claimed they also spent two nights together at Jolie’s London hotel, intensifying the speculation.

Netizens quickly shared their opinions on Akala and Jolie’s rumored romance, with one suggesting it was not a romantic relationship.

Comparisons to Jolie’s ex-husband also emerged. One remarked, “He is definitely no Brad Pitt alright…,” while another expressed relief, “Thank goodness Brad got away!!! I feel bad for her children!!! She’s using them and filling their heads with hate for their Dad!!!”

Another critic sarcastically expressed sympathy for Akala, “Poor guy😁😁.” Others speculated about the potential drama between the rumored pair, labeling him as the “Next victim.”

Some users admired Akala’s involvement in the Hollywood actress’s life. “He’s a brave man,” one user stated, while another commented, “Good luck to him who ever [sic] he is!!!”

However, not all reactions were critical. Some celebrated Akala and Angelina’s possible relationship, “Good for her the man is handsome! 👍🏾,” while another gushed, “They look like beautiful together 😊.”

Akala and Angelina Jolie’s attendance at the film festival in London followed their two appearances in New York City in September and one in Italy in August 2024.