Thursday 29 May 2014

Maleficent (2014) Review

                   'I must say, I really felt quite distressed at not receiving an invitation' 


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to create new things, is one that should be encouraged in cinema and television alike, less we are left with the stale, outdated and stereotypical structures to endure.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 Maleficent plays with the story and with the help of its leading actress, Jolie, it redesigns the outdated design of the tale, by altering certain sequences, but ultimately still including the best elements of the original tale; the dragon, the curse, the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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