Based on what is perhaps my favorite Disney villain ever, Maleficent had a lot to live up too. Thankfully, the film managed to surpass my expectations on many levels. It does justice to Sleeping Beauty, which was originally released 55 years ago this year.
Telling the previously unknown story of Maleficent, this film examines the reasons for her curse on Aurora, the daughter of the man who broke Maleficent's trust and presumably her heart. The story begins with Maleficent's childhood and continues through the breaking of Aurora's curse. This different perspective on a popular story could have gone very wrong, but the short runtime of 97 minutes keeps the story focused and moving.
There's more depth in Maleficent since you're looking at characters' motivations and examining their actions in a different light. Sleeping Beauty, in contrast, is more of a simple retelling of a story. The characters in Maleficent grow and adapt their ideas and emotions. For a PG movie, it's an interesting contrast to what we've always considered to be true about the Sleeping Beauty storyline. In this new film, Maleficent is merely reacting to previous situations out of a sense of hurt and shame rather than just being the evil villain. She has purpose behind her actions and emotions"”unlike the version of her character seen in Sleeping Beauty.
The trailers for Maleficent made me think this film would be an extremely dark retelling of this story. What the trailers don't show is the moments of levity where you laugh at the interplay between Maleficent and Aurora or other characters. Perhaps the greatest provider of necessary comedic relief is Diaval, the raven we're used to seeing shadowing Maleficent. His character's fearlessness in interacting with Maleficent, a fairy feared by all in the moors, is actually rather inspiring in a way. He feels free to be himself with her regardless of potential backlash.
As Stromberg's directorial debut, who is an Oscar-winning production designer, this is a fantastic way to start a new chapter in his career. The cinematography and character design for this film really help set the tone. There are dark moments interspersed with bright highlights, all of which help keep the pace of the film moving. These choices also helped me keep my interest in a story I grew up watching. Lana Del Rey's version of "Once Upon a Dream" is the perfect counterpoint to this film"”beautifully haunting.
That's actually how I would describe this entire film. The design is beautiful, but there's something bereft within the color scheme and Jolie's emotions that really make you identify with Maleficent. The stark contrast between the staid Maleficent and the bright and comparatively bubbly Aurora are interesting foils, and their relationship is really the highlight of the film. The interactions between Jolie and Fanning are completely believeable in the realm of their characters. It's really a testament to their abilities as actors. Diaval, played by Sam Riley, provides an outside perspective that Maleficent clearly needs, and his character is the appropriate mix of humble and cheeky. Perhaps the most interesting performance outside of Jolie's is that of Sharlto Copley, who plays King Stefan. His descent into madness as the film progresses is both impressive and disturbing. He truly seems to be incapable of making rational decisions regarding the safety of his daughter Aurora and his need for revenge against Maleficent.
All told, I walked into this movie fully expecting to be ripping it to shreds. Instead, I actually can't wait to go watch it again. There's something to be said for a children's movie having such depth. Kids will be able to watch and enjoy, but adults will be better able to truly grasp the intricacies of the story and emotion.
