The latest thing in cinema, it would seem, is the re-imagining and reworking of certain fairy-tales, structures and plots in order
to invent something new and exciting. A process which inevitably produces some
duds, but is ultimately required in order to create new things, is one that
should be encouraged in cinema and television alike, less we are left with the
stale, outdated and stereotypical structures to endure.
Maleficent is the re-imagining of Disney’s classic story of ‘Sleeping Beauty’, except this time,
things are from a whole new perspective – the ‘villain’s’. Seeking to enlighten
audiences as to the true story of Maleficent, a fairy who resides in the moors,
the film follows the titular character as she seeks to save the moors from outside
human influence, whilst also being betrayed and caught up in a curse that she
enacts out of revenge. Portraying the titular character is the undoubtedly
brilliant Angelina Jolie, whose character casts a curse on the young Aurora,
played by the delightful Elle Fanning. Assisting Maleficent in her tasks is the
raven-turned-human, Diaval (Sam Riley), whilst the over-ambitious and greedy King
Stefan is portrayed by Sharlto Copley. The infamous three fairies (with their
re-imagined names); Knotgrass, Thistlewit and Flittle are portrayed by Imelda
Staunton, Juno Temple and Lesley Manville, respectively.
Whilst many will argue that this re-telling of the classic
Disney film will stray too far away from the original version, it would be
exceedingly dull to watch an exact live-action replica of the original. Maleficent plays with the story and with
the help of its leading actress, Jolie, it redesigns the outdated design of the
tale, by altering certain sequences, but ultimately still including the best elements
of the original tale; the dragon, the curse, the deliciously wicked elements to
Jolie’s character. Ultimately, it succeeds in doing some new as well, but
adding in a different dimension to the character, showing different sides to
the villain that we just didn't get to see first time round. While it would
have been exceedingly fantastic to see a little bit more on the character
development front, the original didn't offer any explanation as to why
Maleficent was doing the things she was doing in the first place, and frankly
portrayed Aurora/Briar Rose as a ditzy blonde who spends the majority of the
film comatose waiting on some guy she just met to rescue her. Maleficent establishes each character as
their individual selves, and contains a few surprising twists to offer to a
generation which is clearly bored of the original ‘boy saves girl’ scenario
(note: evidence – See the success of feminist flick ‘Frozen’). Whilst this film may not exactly be in Frozen’s league, it is a suitably darker
and more defined version of the classic tale, and is propelled rather
dramatically by the performances from its leading ladies.
Whilst in places the tone may seem a little uneven, the
performances from its cast save the film from going off in a wayward direction,
as in some places it can become a little unclear as to where it is going.
However, Jolie is outstanding in the titular role, bringing a new level of
depth to the character, and masterfully executing every single eyebrow raise or
piercing stare. Making sure to capture the deliciously dark side to the
character, as well as the more slightly humorous side, (whilst still managing
to convey this between a serious of stern looks, so as to not let her guard
down) Jolie injects fear into the hearts of children and adults alike, and
makes sure that all eyes will be on her. Hypnotic and captivating, her
performance is undeniably remarkable and truly ingenious and she ultimately
steals every scene she is in simply by focusing on the audience. In the shadow
of Maleficent, Elle Fanning proves to be a cheerful and delightful Aurora, who
is everything the character should be; full of grace and beauty, but still with
a sensitive and angry side when she needs to be. Fanning makes sure she doesn't get obstructed behind Maleficent’s wings and puts in a confident performance as
the character, and stars opposite Jolie beautifully.
Whilst the visuals on Maleficent
can sometimes get too intense to bear, the overall effort is appreciated and it
is a stunning film that could have fared even better in the hands of a
different director. The overall look of the titular character is particular
striking, sporting deep red lips, chiselled cheekbones and thick black horns.
The special effects make-up in this regard is one of the most enchanting and
dazzling affairs and the moors is a particularly beguiling place.
In case you are especially keen to jet out of the cinema as
soon as the film finishes, we advise you to stick around to hear Lana Del Rey’s
haunting rendition of ‘Once Upon A Dream’ which eerily plays over the credits
in a most entrancing manner.
Overall, Maleficent
is a confident source of family entertainment, being only marginally let down
by its uneven toning in places at the hands of its director, and it seems
evident that this particular twisted film could have been truly magnificent in
the hands of another individual (nevertheless, it is still a worthwhile watch).
Jolie is truly captivating in this role, and its one she will probably be
remembered for, for a long time.
4 stars
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