Funny, kind, protective and strong-willed are characteristics that describe the re-imagined protagonist of Maleficent. The movie focuses on Maleficent, the notorious villain of Disney’s Sleeping Beauty, played by Angelina Jolie. The previously untold story of Maleficent reveals a more complex character than the original 1959 fairy tale antagonist, and gives the familiar fairy tale a more modern twist.
This movie aims to show a gentler and more humorous side of Maleficent, which Jolie delivers while keeping in touch with the cruelty of the original fairy tale character. This contrast makes the movie seem authentic to the audience, especially those familiar with the older version.
While Maleficent’s costumes are similar to the ones from Sleeping Beauty, some of the new clothing in certain scenes was too dark for her personality in this adaptation. As for her angel-like wings, they represented her strength and empowered her.
Another noteworthy character is Diaval, Maleficent’s raven, who lets himself be used for whatever purposes she deems necessary. His role in this film is much more noticeable than in traditional portrayals. This time, he isn’t just a servant; he is also Maleficent’s constant companion. He is her eyes and ears, while also taking on the roles of adviser and friend.
There are a few other characters worth mentioning, such as the fairies Flittle, Knotgrass and Thistlewit. Their names suit them, because they are annoying, self-absorbed and a little bossy—polar opposites of the original 1959 fairies Flora, Merryweather and Fauna, who actually cared about Aurora despite their lack of child-rearing experience.
King Stefan plays a major role in the film, as he is her father. Over time, the king becomes callous and insane, unlike the original character. In the 1959 version, Aurora’s father’s love for her is apparent, while in this version the character doesn’t show the slightest bit of affection toward her.
Rating: 3/5
Maleficent is enjoyable enough, and has a satisfactory ending. To fans of Disney’s animated Sleeping Beauty: just try not to compare the two different stories to each other. Maleficent is a modern retelling of an old story, so it’s bound to be different. If you start comparing the two movies it will drive you crazy.