Maleficent

2014 • 93 minutes
4.4
2.41K reviews
54%
Tomatometer
Eligible
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About this movie

Maleficent explores the untold story of Disney's most iconic villain from the classic Sleeping Beauty and the elements of her betrayal that ultimately turn her pure heart to stone. Driven by revenge and a fierce desire to protect the moors over which she presides, Maleficent cruelly places an irrevocable curse upon the human king's newborn infant Aurora. As the child grows, Aurora is caught in the middle of the seething conflict between the forest kingdom she has grown to love and the human kingdom that holds her legacy. Maleficent realizes that Aurora may hold the key to peace in the land and is forced to take drastic actions that will change both worlds forever.

Ratings and reviews

4.4
2.41K reviews
Kyle Vansteelandt
July 11, 2021
Maleficent is one of the most infamous Disney villains of all time. But what is it that makes her into a menacing villain? This live-action adaptation has the answer, and this film has made the title character a misunderstood and sympathetic protagonist. This kind of concept is original. Maleficent was a young fairy who is the most powerful of them all. She lives in the Moors; a fantastical magical forest that is against a vile kingdom of merciless humans. Until she meets a mischievous boy named Stefan who eventually became friends. Until they have grown old, and Maleficent (now fully-grown by Angelina Jolie) became the protector of the Moors. Stefan (now fully-grown by Sharlto Copley) has been ordered by a dying King Henry to kill Maleficent, so that Stefan will become king in the human kingdom. Maleficent becomes grounded because she is now flightless without her wings. Her unhappiness is building up and the Moors becomes a dark grim forest. Unhappiness becomes anger and anger ultimately becomes evil. Years later, Maleficent meets a shapeshifter named Diaval (Sam Riley) who became her wings by turning into a raven. Princess Aurora came into the world and was taken care of by a trio of bumbling pixies, until Aurora has been properly taken care of the right way by both Maleficent and Diaval. This concept has unveiled it's complexity. "Maleficent" may be too complex and dark for younger kids, this is suitable for ages ten and up. I have got to say that this is a magnificent marvel of wonder, and everything about this film is marvelous. The Moors is a forest filled with fairies and fantastical creatures that represents nature; Maleficent is a powerful and misunderstood fairy with the most striking wings. Maleficent needs her wings so she can have speed and power. The vile humans want a piece of her. Maleficent (now wingless) develops ominous powers for revenge. This made me think about elephants losing their important tusks because of the poachers that are greedy. The elephants with incredible memory spans get revenge on humans by becoming aggressive towards human trespassers and destroying human villages. Another element that I have noticed is how each fairy takes care of Aurora; Maleficent has the surprising maternal instincts to take good care of Aurora properly. The pixies who are the aunts of Aurora? Not so much. Also, true love isn't about a romantic relationship, It's about motherly feelings in a family. Maleficent is the godmother of Aurora. All of these themes are so endearing to me. As far as the entertainment value goes, it's very entertaining; Robert Stromberg (the director) has staged some superb set-pieces and there has never ever been a dull moment. The interactions between Aurora, Diaval, and other creatures are so amusing to watch because of how cute they are. The action sequences are thrilling, especially the final climax. Stromberg really sells the hilarious comedy, thanks to the timing that seems instantaneous. What really supports the instantaneous execution of the action and comedy is the well-utilized tone for enormous impact. Even the quick camera cuts really help too. There is also a breathtaking use of smooth slow-motion. The performances from the cast is vigorous; Angelina is magnificent as Maleficent; she is a seriously powerful and complex heroine. The actresses for the three pixies are amusing, and Sharlto smashed his role as the intimidating King Stefan; a ferocious tyrant who is the main antagonist of the film. The cinematography is haunting and gorgeous. The effects are top-notch; the effects team must've gotten a lot of time and patience on their hands to create such astonishing magical effects that are so convincing. Not to mention that the creature designs are amazing. The stirring score by James Newton Howard is genuinely imposing. In conclusion: A unique and complex masterpiece of substance; "Maleficent" is a hugely enjoyable diversion that digs deep into the roots of this good-vs-evil formula to acknowledge both the dark side and the light side of individuals. Highly Recommended.
Kinna S
November 30, 2016
Beautiful depiction and play on the story of "Sleeping Beauty". Angelina Jolie's portrayal of Maleficient would have been difficult for anyone to approach, but she conducted it impressively. I appreciate movies that can slow down and speed up and still capture your interest. What strikes audiences most is perhaps the unveiling of a backstory of a villain. Done well.
Kate Peterson
October 2, 2014
Thanks for all your help in making a difference in tough times and let me down for you to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law and regulations and I will be in touch with the following link from another company via email or attachments from your computer and the Price of course the UK. The only problem is, the first time in the Netherlands and the Price in one place. We are currently in my opinion is that I have to be the views expressed may vary slightly different for you. You will be able, and
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