From Disney comes “Maleficent”-the untold story of Disney’s most iconic villain from the 1959 classic “Sleeping Beauty.” A beautiful, pure-hearted young woman, Maleficent has an idyllic life growing up in a peaceable forest kingdom, until one day when an invading army threatens the harmony of the land. Maleficent rises to be the land’s fiercest protector, but she ultimately suffers a ruthless betrayal – an act that begins to turn her pure heart to stone.
Bent on revenge, Maleficent faces an epic battle with the invading king’s successor and, as a result, places a curse upon his newborn infant Aurora. As the child grows, Maleficent realizes that Aurora holds the key to peace in the kingdom-and perhaps to Maleficent’s true happiness as well.
Starring Angelina Jolie, Sharlto Copley, Elle Fanning, Sam Riley, Imedla Staunton and directed by Robert Stromberg.
PLAY & GO REVIEW
‘Maleficent’ is visually spectacular in the way you would expect from a Disney movie. It is a story of good vs bad, but with a few layers. The beauty, happiness and peace of the fairy kingdom is juxtaposed with the darkness and violence of war; the evil and greed of her betrayor; and the tragedy that is bestowed on the castle’s inhabitants. Angelina Jolie is captivating in this role (as are her digitally enhanced cheek bones – which you can’t help staring at). She gives depth to this character who we have never understood until now. As far as the violence and scare factor is concerned, this is not a film suitable for young children. The battle early in the film between warrior creatures and the king’s men is fierce and violent, although not in a bloody way. I would say the fantasy violence factor is similar to movies such as ‘The Hobbit – The Desolation of Smaug’ or Disney’s ‘Oz – The Great & Powerful’.
It’s perfect for those teens who have graduated from Disney’s ‘Frozen’ but who will still appreciate the fairy tale story, while Adults will also enjoy this one. It’s a fairy tale, but not as you know it, which makes it interesting. I’m also loving that Disney are re-defining their idea of ‘true love’ in these current movies.
For more information and to view the trailer visit the official Disney Maleficent website.
What: Maleficent
When: Release Date: 29 May 2014
Where: Selected Cinemas
Who: Rated M | Fantasy themes and violence | Duration 97 minutes
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