Review of Maleficent (2014) by Peter P — 25 Nov 2015

I went into Maleficent with very neutral expectations. Not even 15 minutes through the movie were those expectations completely shattered. This film delivered on all cylinders for me: acting, visual effects, direction, narrative and cinematography.

Angelina Jolie completely stole the show and helped distinguish this film from its fairytale source material, 'Sleeping Beauty'. With a delicate twist to the story, Maleficent shows the story of Princess Aurora through the eyes of the titular, 'evil' fairy.

The movie follows the titular character as she watches over the young princess all the way until her cursed 16th year of age. The story is a complete reimagining, and it does the original justice while completely setting itself apart from the usual happily ever after family movie.

Make no mistake, this is definitely a Disney film and very family oriented; however, it has a very surprisingly dark tone. Angelina Jolie definitely captures that tone. She completely becomes Maleficent.

She was the perfect casting choice for this role. Disney has a sure fire hit with this live action take on a classic tale. I was completely blown away amd couldn't stop talking about the film the second it was over.

There hasn't been a Disney film that has truly touched me sinve 'The Lion King' and now this film joins that short list.