Maleficent

On May 30th, the “Mistress of All Evil” graced movie screens across the nation in her film, Maleficent.  Disney fanatics, “Sleeping Beauty” fans and Villain fans spent last evening submerging themselves in Maleficent’s world with this retelling of the Disney classic, “Sleeping Beauty”. Fitting into all three of those categories, you can probably guess correctly who was among this great group of people- ME!  Today I’m excited to share with you my “spoiler-free” thoughts on “Maleficent”. Reviewing this film as a mom and Disney Enthusiast, I’m simply telling you my opinions of the movie.  I am in no way affiliated with The Walt Disney Company.

My Thoughts as a Mom

I would not recommend taking small children to this film.  Having a seven-year old boy and a three-year old girl, I can tell you that neither of my children would enjoy the movie.  Maleficent’s world is home to some incredibly beautiful creatures, but it’s also filled with woodland inhabitants that can create a few nightmares for kids.  In addition, the violence and fast-moving images can be intense for small minds.  This is NOT a traditional Disney princess movie where Aurora sings with animals as she dances through the forest.  Having said that, there isn’t any gore in the film and if your child enjoys live action movies, such as the Pirates of Caribbean films, I believe they can handle “Maleficent”.  The story line can easily be followed and the lessons to be learned are those we should all teach our children.

My Thoughts as a Disney Enthusiast

As a Disney Enthusiast, this is a “MUST-SEE” film.  “Maleficent” is pure enjoyment.  Discovering the elements from Disney’s 1959 classic “Sleeping Beauty” brilliantly weaved into Disney’s 2014 film “Maleficent” is a gift from executive producer Don Hahn to “Sleeping Beauty” fans across the world.

Casting is spot on.  Elle Fanning’s portrayal of Princess Aurora is angelic perfection.  Sharlto Copley, with the looks of a perfect King Stefan, passionately plays a dad whom will save his daughter at all costs.  As for Maleficent… Personally, I’m not Angelina Jolie’s biggest fan and prior to seeing the film, I wasn’t extremely excited to know that she would play the role of such an infamous Disney villain.  However, her performance as Maleficent is truly fantastic.  There are moments in the film that I had to hold back giggles of enjoyment when Sleeping Beauty‘s animated Maleficent seemed to descend upon Angelina and take over the screen.  Again I emphasis that  Ms. Jolie’s depth in portraying this character is nothing short of superb.

The film’s visual design and story development are simply magical.  The set designs instantly transports you to Maleficent’s stunning world, and in turn it speaks volumes to the heart of the film without saying a word. The “Maleficent” story line keeps true to key components of Disney’s 1959 classic “Sleeping Beauty”, while additionally telling the back story of its main character, Maleficent.

I applaud first-time Director Robert Stromberg for giving us a new Disney classic, “Maleficent”.  Once Upon a Dream may not always mean what it seems…