Maleficent

7

OpinionatedGuyOct 20, 2014

This movie is a re-imagining of Sleeping Beauty told in a point of view from Maleficent, who is one of Disney’s most iconic villains. Because this is a re-imagining, there will be some changes from its original Disney adaptation and I have noThis movie is a re-imagining of Sleeping Beauty told in a point of view from Maleficent, who is one of Disney’s most iconic villains. Because this is a re-imagining, there will be some changes from its original Disney adaptation and I have no shame saying that I liked this version.

This is more of a redemption story for Maleficent and I like it.

The cast performances were really excellent. Who stood out the most was Angelina Jolie. She really played one of the most iconic Disney villains really well that she is Maleficent herself.

The visual effects were amazing for this movie. The direction from Robert Stromberg is also really great. The cinematography really makes this movie visually appealing.

As for the plot, while I do like how it redeems Maleficent, I don’t like how it solely focuses on Maleficent. Aurora has nothing interesting to do in this movie. She felt bland and although this movie is told from the point of view from Maleficent, Aurora should have something interesting to show, after all it’s still her story.

The character development made me care about Maleficent and his apprentice, but no one else and this is the main problem of this movie. I don’t give a flying crap about the rest of the characters. They’re either “Eh, okay” (The Prince Charming/Aurora) or “I wanna kill them already” (The stupid fairies/The terrible father of Aurora).

I like how this movie is narrated. I am not going to elaborate on this part because this is actually a plot twist. Shhh……..

Overall, this is not the best Disney movie ever. But, it’s entertaining enough for a Disney movie thanks to Angelina Jolie’s excellent performance as Maleficent and the visually-appealing cinematography and special effects. However, don’t expect too much from this movie. I guess this is why this movie disappointed a lot of people.… Expand

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7

grim977Jul 13, 2014

A very predictable movie with a little twist on the original. this movie is based from the movie "Sleeping Beauty." It is a Disney movie so i guess that is justified. it is intended for a younger audience. with some touching moments it was aA very predictable movie with a little twist on the original. this movie is based from the movie "Sleeping Beauty." It is a Disney movie so i guess that is justified. it is intended for a younger audience. with some touching moments it was a movie i actually enjoyed, it brought a little hope after i was disappointed from the movie "Godzilla." The good acting brought the characters to life. 7.3/10… Expand

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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7

horcrux2007Dec 4, 2014

You can tell the director was a more "style over substance" kind of guy. The acting from Angelina Jolie was flawless, but the other actors were pretty bland, mostly due to the horrendous script. I was expecting more of a fantasy-action film,You can tell the director was a more "style over substance" kind of guy. The acting from Angelina Jolie was flawless, but the other actors were pretty bland, mostly due to the horrendous script. I was expecting more of a fantasy-action film, because that's how it was advertised, but what I got was "Maleficent bonding with baby Aurora". The supporting characters, namely the three fairies and the raven character whose names I forgot, were extremely aggravating and just took away from the overall story. The fairies in particular created unnecessary comic relief. If this is the "true" story of Maleficent, I'll just stick with the story we "thought" was true. Ignorance is bliss.… Expand

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7

DCEdmondsNov 13, 2014

"Maleficent" 10 Scale Rating: 7.5 (Very Good) ...

The Good: Jolie seems like she was born to play Maleficent as she was perfect in bringing the classic villain to the big screen. A mere cock of her eyebrow or well-timed menacing glare"Maleficent" 10 Scale Rating: 7.5 (Very Good) ...

The Good: Jolie seems like she was born to play Maleficent as she was perfect in bringing the classic villain to the big screen. A mere cock of her eyebrow or well-timed menacing glare would often times be enough to get the point across. Perhaps the best performance of Jolie's career. The story itself is well done and Maleficent's transformation from wronged fairy to evil queen was one of the highlights of the film. As a fan of the classic tale, I was more than a little apprehensive with a film casting Maleficent as an anti-hero, but it was well handled and believable. The special effects were also, for the most part, top notch as expected.

The Bad: However, a few of the denizens of the fairy realm were poorly done and looked like cartoons. That was especially frustrating since the overwhelming majority of the film was an amazing spectacle. While I was fine with most of the liberties the film takes with the story (you are indeed warned that this is NOT the story you know, but instead is what really happened), there is a key part near the end that drops the film down a notch. I scratched my head at this particular scene as it almost makes you wonder why they made the film to begin with. Copley is hit and miss and on occasion over-acts. I sort of expected this from him though as it seems to be a common issue for him.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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7

spongeswiftMar 26, 2017

Maleficent was good... Yes it had some very big flaws but it was still an overall solid film. The story felt fresh and very unpredictable which gave the movie a dark feel even when it wasn't supposed to. Overall Disney fans will love thisMaleficent was good... Yes it had some very big flaws but it was still an overall solid film. The story felt fresh and very unpredictable which gave the movie a dark feel even when it wasn't supposed to. Overall Disney fans will love this movie but regular movie goers will take it or leave it.… Expand

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7

SrPepeNov 18, 2017

Una interesante película de Disney. Hacer una obra acerca de la villana no debe ser fácil y la verdad que lo manejaron muy bien. Me gustó, aunque no la vería de nuevo.

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7

shiftworkerAug 22, 2016

Feeling nostalgic for a childhood full of fairy-tales? if so then this could be the cherry on the chocolate cake. Take fairies, enchantment and Angelina Jolie and add big-budget special effects for simple entertainment. Of course if you're aFeeling nostalgic for a childhood full of fairy-tales? if so then this could be the cherry on the chocolate cake. Take fairies, enchantment and Angelina Jolie and add big-budget special effects for simple entertainment. Of course if you're a wizened old fool like me this sort of movie is a guilty pleasure. I'll probably give it a another look in about 5 years or so..… Expand

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7

JPKDec 15, 2019

Interesting Retelling
This remake of Sleeping Beauty isn’t flawless, But it is interesting at times.

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7

MaxwooAug 30, 2020

Classic story, classic type of storytelling, great performance of Angelina Jolie, she and Elle Fanning are pretty much all the movie is about, and the rest is just you know pretty fairy stuffs.

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7

Sosmooth1982Jan 4, 2023

Good movie seeing how maleficent became maleficent. Pretty bogus what they did to her. Now she fights to get her wings back.

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6

jdolan74Jun 29, 2014

Angelia Jolie makes this film watchable, despite its flaws. Honestly, its intentions outweigh its flaws in almost every way. And Sharlto Copley gave one of his better performances to date. If I were a little kid I would have really enjoyedAngelia Jolie makes this film watchable, despite its flaws. Honestly, its intentions outweigh its flaws in almost every way. And Sharlto Copley gave one of his better performances to date. If I were a little kid I would have really enjoyed it. Way better than Snow White and the Huntsman.… Expand

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6

DukeJonJul 12, 2020

An ok watch. Jolie keeps this movie together, all the supporting characters just aren't that interesting. However as a character I failed to warm to her. This movie had plenty of villains, a simple minded princess and not much else.

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6

dharmaJun 6, 2014

Maleficent works because of Angelina Jolie's amazing performance as the main character. Other than that, the movie has this weird pacing that feels off. The Director, while an Oscar winner for numerous Technical categories, is definitely aMaleficent works because of Angelina Jolie's amazing performance as the main character. Other than that, the movie has this weird pacing that feels off. The Director, while an Oscar winner for numerous Technical categories, is definitely a first timer. Sure it has great effects and this great matte painting quality to the visuals, but it sort of remind me of Joseph Kosinski's work, (of Oblivion's). Visually great but felt cobbled together.… Expand

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6

lasttimeisawJun 7, 2014

A quite long absence from big screen, since THE TOURIST (2010, 7/10), Angelina Jolie is back with this unorthodox adaption of Grimm Brothers Sleeping Beauty fairytale, parades her overpowering belligerence and devilish look, retells the storyA quite long absence from big screen, since THE TOURIST (2010, 7/10), Angelina Jolie is back with this unorthodox adaption of Grimm Brothers Sleeping Beauty fairytale, parades her overpowering belligerence and devilish look, retells the story from the angle of the villain Maleficent, an evil fairy (with two giant horns) who puts the sleeping spell on princess Aurora (Fanning) in order to pay back to her father King Stefan (Copley) for his brutal betrayal.
continue to read my review on my blog: google cinema omnivore.… Expand

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6

sanyrubJan 25, 2015

The movie looks so beautiful, Angelina Jolie is perfect in her role, there are a couple of powerful moments and overall it is not boring. But the story is weak, the most interesting part is the first act, while there´s a big amount of minutesThe movie looks so beautiful, Angelina Jolie is perfect in her role, there are a couple of powerful moments and overall it is not boring. But the story is weak, the most interesting part is the first act, while there´s a big amount of minutes where nothing seems to happen in the second act. Nice message with some women empowerment. Not much more going on. You can stream it.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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6

Rob7309Jun 1, 2014

An overall enjoyable time at the movies. Jolie was really good and there are some cool set pieces as well as creature designs. The movie was fairly predictable and the rest of the performances were just ok, but all in all the movie was solid.

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6

nicholasbertAug 21, 2014

The twisting of a classic fairy-tale is never easy - and it definitely shows how Disney is running out of original ideas, but the film in itself is not that bad, although completely dependent on Angelina Jolie's acting.

Indeed the otherThe twisting of a classic fairy-tale is never easy - and it definitely shows how Disney is running out of original ideas, but the film in itself is not that bad, although completely dependent on Angelina Jolie's acting.

Indeed the other actors are not quite up to the task, with the weird accent changes (I suppose the growingly Scottish accent of Stephan symbolizes his embitterment) and the exaggerated facial expressions... but if you have in mind it's a fairy-tale, it's all quite forgivable and forgettable. And Angelina looks like she could get a couple more pounds on her legs and neck, to be fair.

This film has a grand plot hole - I'm sure some have noticed. In my opinion, 10 to 20 minutes more of duration added to the ending could have fixed it, and would have probably made Maleficent a much better movie, but as we know, Disney don't like their movies to be more than 100 minutes long.

I wasn't expecting intelligent writing, big plot twists, witty dialogue, so I wasn't disappointed when I found none of those: again, the perspective is that of a fairy-tale, and it is, after all, a film meant for children. I just hope they have watched the animated Sleeping Beauty, or even better read the fairy-tale, before they watch Maleficent.… Expand

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6

SEROJJun 3, 2014

Disney combined story aspects from Frozen,Beauty and the beast and Pocahontas .. and this is the result.. decent movie with great acting...6/10 , just because of Jolie's outstanding performance!

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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6

GustavoTalainiJun 1, 2014

Angelina Jolie steals every scene with her excellent performance .... The Disney movie has charming effects, but a poor and bad script.
It is a cliche movie for this summer.

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

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6

TheApplegnomeOct 19, 2014

It’s not like Frozen, not even close.

Angelina Joline is the best thing with Malefecient, she is so great and no one could replace her and perform better! There are some entertaining moments in this movie that I truly enjoy and it’s bothIt’s not like Frozen, not even close.

Angelina Joline is the best thing with Malefecient, she is so great and no one could replace her and perform better! There are some entertaining moments in this movie that I truly enjoy and it’s both unique and groovy. But when it comes to the story and the bad CGI isn’t Malefecient a great movie. Malefecient doesn’t got the "Disney Magic” like Frozen or other big movies, it felt like a mix between a Disney movie and a reality based movie. The klimax of the film is another aspect that they could have done better, and there are some boring scenes. The worst thing is Sharlto Copley, the worst actor you could choose to play a king!

Malefecient is Disney's weakest installment of the year.

Malefecient get a 6/10.… Expand

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6

sammurphy66Jul 14, 2014

Whilst Jolie’s performance is noteworthy, Maleficent is a wholly unnecessarily expensive affair offering little more than great spectacle and vivid action.

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6

victorhjklMay 30, 2014

Angelina Jolie made an amazing performance in this movie, but there's a lot of cliches predictable scenes... and despite there's a good new perspective of the story, and great visual effects... The movie is middling.

6 of 12 users found this helpful66

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6

PillisOct 23, 2019

Angelina is flawless and she can sell whatever film she's in simply with her stunning beauty and mesmerising talent. Sublime casting choice. Having said that, while the movie is good at heart in retelling Maleficent's story, a sloppyAngelina is flawless and she can sell whatever film she's in simply with her stunning beauty and mesmerising talent. Sublime casting choice. Having said that, while the movie is good at heart in retelling Maleficent's story, a sloppy direction and cheap sets make for a disappointing experience. The camera work and the lighting are really bad with characters casting their own shadows against each other giving the film a cheap soap opera look. Acting and writing are subpar and CGI isn't very refined. Yet it's hard not to cry at the endearing relationship between Maleficent and Aurora. The changing emotions within the main character are well displayed and Angelina gives and iconic and strong performance. Watch part 2 because it ties perfectly with this one and because it's a much better movie.… Expand

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6

KaleBishopMay 31, 2014

From the start of the movie it was very nice and all but up until the preclimax of the movie did it reach its peak of the mountain. Something tells me that the director held back because the rating of this movie is G (Suitable for all) andFrom the start of the movie it was very nice and all but up until the preclimax of the movie did it reach its peak of the mountain. Something tells me that the director held back because the rating of this movie is G (Suitable for all) and not PG (Parantel Guidance is advised). I was greatly disapointed with how this movie ended but it seems that that was the only flaw I found in this movie.
Overall, it's an okay movie. Not very good or good sadly. It could've been better if the current writer gave a little more time to write it then it would've been thrilling.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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6

inaneswineNov 14, 2017

All the cast put in fine performances, particularly Jolie. I also praise Disney for introducing a grey area to all the black-and-white fairytales we already know (though this is not original or innovative). It certainly looks beautifulAll the cast put in fine performances, particularly Jolie. I also praise Disney for introducing a grey area to all the black-and-white fairytales we already know (though this is not original or innovative). It certainly looks beautiful enough, with the 3D - like with most features - being most effective on the quiet, less spectacular scenes (such as the walk through the forest) as opposed to the grandiose battle scenes. Nonetheless, with all that going for it, it still feels like little more than another telling of the same story, as opposed to a retelling.

Dem cheekbones though.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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6

Jim222001Apr 14, 2015

Everyone is irrelevant but Maleficent pretty much. Even the three fairies who are supposed to watch over Aurora are careless morons in this. But Jolie shines enough to make it watchable despite it hacking up the Sleeping Beauty story.

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6

WJSFeb 21, 2015

This film looks fantastic, with amazing effects and spectacular production design. However, if not for Angelina Jolie's mesmerizing performance it would lose a lot of its charm (or potential for charm). It gets dragged down in its own storyThis film looks fantastic, with amazing effects and spectacular production design. However, if not for Angelina Jolie's mesmerizing performance it would lose a lot of its charm (or potential for charm). It gets dragged down in its own story and proves to be a lot darker than it really needs to be.… Expand

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6

REDWOUNov 22, 2014

Maleficent was incredibly predictable. I didn't like just because of it being so predictable. It's barely original, since there are so many cliches that unfortunately benefit to the predictability behind the movie.

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6

ThatCoolCriticApr 12, 2015

Why, Why does Disney have to reboot Sleeping Beauty? Now, I wasn't the biggest fan of the original movie but it was a pretty decent flick. But what I loved the most about the movie was the villain, Maleficent. She was so creepy and evil, itWhy, Why does Disney have to reboot Sleeping Beauty? Now, I wasn't the biggest fan of the original movie but it was a pretty decent flick. But what I loved the most about the movie was the villain, Maleficent. She was so creepy and evil, it was awesome! So when I heard Disney was going to make a live action adaptation of Sleeping Beauty focused completely on Maleficent, I was excited. But my god was I wrong! For one, they make Maleficent good. That is such a bad idea and the worst part is they want us to simpithize with her! Uh, hello you realize she cursed and infant baby right? Speeking of which, Aurora is really bland in this movie. And don't even get me started on Prince Philip, he's pretty much useless in this film. King Stefen is probably the most forgettable Disney villains ever. The three fairies, WHAT THE HECK!!! They turned them into Three Stooges … Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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6

BLK99Aug 30, 2017

mal escrita, peor dirigida, las actuaciones son pesimas, aunque Angelina Jolie salva la pelicula, tal vez trabajar mas el contexto, se siente muy simple y vacia

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6

robertoiglesiasApr 19, 2020

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I think this film is okay. On the one hand, the performances are great, especially Jolie as Maleficent. The story starts out interesting and has a good first act and the third act is decent.
But the second act is where it fails. There are points in this film where Maleficent could be evil, but instead she becomes the actual mother of Aurora because the 3 fairies are so irresponsible, annoying, and carress. So Maleficent is the hero. UGH! There's also suspense for when the fairies move baby Aurora into a new cottage. Maleficent immediately finds them, removing all suspense, and THE BABY IS LEFT OUTSIDE AND NEARLY DIES! WTF!
I hate the fairies in this. They are so irritating, they are so careless, they are awful at raising Aurora, they get into fights, and are useless.

I wish this film kept the first act, but had Maleficent do a bunch of evil things, like burn down the castle, causing Stefan to move (adding suspense to when Maleficent finds his castle after she is taken to his new castle in the third act), kill soldiers who try to attack her, and more.

About the part of Maleficent finding Aurora, I would rewrite it to a soldier sent to bring her back the day before her 16th birthday, and Maleficent finds him about to approach the cottage before she makes Diaval kill him. I think it would've been better.

So Maleficent is an ok film imo. I do find it better if you see how this leads into the sequel. As a standalone film, it needed some improvements, but as a film leading up to an epic sequel, it's better than I make it out to be.… Expand

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6

FilipeNetoMay 12, 2018

This film basically recounts the old story of Sleeping Beauty from the point of view of the wicked witch, which ends up being transformed into a sympathetic anti-heroine. The lead role is played by Angelina Jolie, who does a very satisfyingThis film basically recounts the old story of Sleeping Beauty from the point of view of the wicked witch, which ends up being transformed into a sympathetic anti-heroine. The lead role is played by Angelina Jolie, who does a very satisfying job in this film. Unfortunately, Elle Fanning is a totally superficial Sleeping Beauty. She is a pretty silly face that appears because it has to appear. But the blame may be on the script rather than the actress. In fact, the script tells an interesting story and is generally good (especially if we realize from the beginning that the film is a reinvention of Charles Perrault's short story) but it also presents ideas and situations that we just can not swallow, like the initial attack on the Maleficent kingdom, with an entire army in line for battle against an enchanted forest. The Roman emperor Nero (or Caligula?) did something similar when he wanted to conquer the ocean and dominate the god Neptune, but we know he was crazy... The movie has several situations that our logic simply does not accept, even with the excuse of magic. Stromberg, the director, did an interesting job, although the film used (and abused) CGI and special effects. The photo is very bright and colorful, sometimes it even looks like an animation.

This movie is a good movie to watch with the family. The younger ones will probably like it more than the adults, but the film has something to give to the grown up too, especially in the final half, where the film takes on more dramatic force.… Expand

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6

LivingTribunalJun 18, 2018

Yes! I like the way that Disney creatively recreated Sleeping Beauty. IT might not have succeeded, but it was a good try.

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6

All_ButTrU4Jul 6, 2022

Ambitious, dark and wholly thrilling! This twisted retelling of the sleeping beauty folklore is a wonderful treat that through switching who it centers provides a more moving story. When a powerful fairy disregards warning to interact withAmbitious, dark and wholly thrilling! This twisted retelling of the sleeping beauty folklore is a wonderful treat that through switching who it centers provides a more moving story. When a powerful fairy disregards warning to interact with humans she strikes up a deep friendship with a poor peasant boy that ends in betrayal. Betrayed Maleficent casts a curse on the peasant turned king's daughter that has unforseen consequences for both of them… Expand

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6

atabeyordekciAug 18, 2021

A vengeful fairy is driven to curse an infant princess, only to discover that the child may be the one person who can restore peace to their troubled land. (6)

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5

canhenhaJun 17, 2014

"Maleficent" is the debut feature for Robert Stromberg, after a career in production design and special effects (he won Oscars for both Tim Burton's "Alice in Wonderland" and James Cameron's "Avatar").
The film focuses on the story of a"Maleficent" is the debut feature for Robert Stromberg, after a career in production design and special effects (he won Oscars for both Tim Burton's "Alice in Wonderland" and James Cameron's "Avatar").
The film focuses on the story of a fairy named Maleficent. She lives in kingdom of magical creatures, which is surrounded by a kingdom of humans, governed by a greedy king who is adamant on taking over the magical surroundings. Upon seeing his army vanquished, he requests that one of his underlings vanquishes Maleficent and gains access to her kingdom. This request is taken by Stefan, an ambitious young man, whom Maleficent has loved since her young childhood. He takes advantage of her affections, and that drives her to a dark side and to seek revenge upon all the wrongs inflected on her and her kind.
Robert Stromberg is clearly a talented technician, with a gift to create universes that are rich and support the vision from other filmmakers and storytellers. However, in his debut feature, he does not benefit from a rich enough screenplay, to actually provide a canvas for his story telling and universe to be brought to life. The central character, Maleficent, though larger than life and rich enough to have a film focused on her, fails to have much to do throughout the film, thanks to a reductive screenplay, where the trifecta of her motivations are love/revenge/redemption. In the hands of a more experienced director, that would be enough for a richly layered film, however Robert Stromberg merely illustrates the story in a decorative way, giving a hint of a certain darkness, never probing much deeper into the character of Maleficent. Angelina Jolie does a fantastic job, as usual, investing the character with a depth that the film never matches, however the supporting actors have little to do with characters that are basic archetypes. A missed opportunity.… Expand

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5

beingryanjudeSep 3, 2014

A new and entirely different look at Disney's Maleficent. They've taken influence from Wicked--but, unfortunately, were unable to match it. Angelina Jolie's performance as Maleficent is notable, and may even be recognized by the Globes.

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5

Trev29Nov 15, 2014

Angelina Jolie was clearly what saved this movie. The way she approached her lines was great, but there were too many dramatic shots of her doing nothing. If the story was a little more in depth I think it would have been a much better film.

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5

BrianMcCriticOct 29, 2014

This movie is ok but it lacks any of the wonder or imagination of the original Sleeping Beauty. Visually the film works, it looks great unfortunatly thats the best part similar to other disney retellings. The story is sloppy and man areThis movie is ok but it lacks any of the wonder or imagination of the original Sleeping Beauty. Visually the film works, it looks great unfortunatly thats the best part similar to other disney retellings. The story is sloppy and man are those fairies annoying. C+… Expand

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5

RemJun 2, 2014

When I first saw the "Dream Trailer" for Maleficent a couple months back, I was instantly hyped for the movie. Disney was on a roll recently, and it seemed they could continue bombarding us with great films, however, Maleficent is anythingWhen I first saw the "Dream Trailer" for Maleficent a couple months back, I was instantly hyped for the movie. Disney was on a roll recently, and it seemed they could continue bombarding us with great films, however, Maleficent is anything but great. To start off, the movie is painstakingly predictable, and the movie even pulls a "Frozen" twist near the end. IT doesn't help that the humor falls between forced and empty. That doesn't deny the fact that the effects of the movie were indeed impressive. But the one thing I had gripes with was Angelina Jolie as Maleficent, she simply does not deliver as she seems like she's holding back from what seems to be a fantastic villain. People will certainly enjoy this movie, but for others like me who had big expectations from this movie, it just doesn't save it from the fact that Ella Fanning plays a terrible Aurora. Just go and rewatch Frozen, you'll love that one more.… Expand

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5

RedOwlReviewsJun 2, 2014

There is one word that can be used to sufficiently describe Robert Stromberg’s directorial efforts in his debut Maleficent, and that word is amateurish. He starts off with a spin on a classic childhood movie that places the focus on theThere is one word that can be used to sufficiently describe Robert Stromberg’s directorial efforts in his debut Maleficent, and that word is amateurish. He starts off with a spin on a classic childhood movie that places the focus on the original supposed antagonist – a concept that is both clever and somewhat uninspired (refer to Wicked and more recently, Oz the Great and Powerful). He then employs a plot so painfully simple and straightforward, it even manages to make 97 minutes feel like a stretch. He tosses in some straight-from-the-source dialogue and a few awkwardly fitting characters – Maleficent’s crow, who also doubles as her eternally indebted shape-shifting cohort; an irrelevant generic Prince Charming who occupies roughly five minutes of screen time; and the three pixies who more closely resemble the klutzy comical witches of Hocus Pocus than their original counterparts. Finally, he blends everything together, applies a fantastical, Alice In Wonderland-esque visual aesthetic filter, and slaps the Disney logo on top to create an expensive blockbuster that never feels even remotely unique. The only aspect of this movie that stands out ¬¬(and makes you wonder whose movie this truly is) is the riveting, spot on performance from Angelina Jolie.
There is no doubt that Jolie’s performance – heck, even her presence – enhances Maleficent. However, I would take it one step further and argue that, without Jolie, Maleficent would be nothing (sorry, Stromberg). Maleficent works for Jolie in two ways. Firstly, it serves as a safe and reliable investment for an executive producer who also happens to be the lead actress. I concede that Maleficent isn’t a flat-out bomb; it would really take a lot to screw up such a straightforward and tasty (if not fresh) film. Jolie hopped onto this film with the assurance that it would not scar her reputation in the financial world of film. Secondly, Maleficent works as a steadfast vehicle for a prominent actress who hasn’t flaunted her fabulous lips and cheekbones on the big screen for almost four years. This title role allows her to slip back into theaters without having to devote herself to a heavy and overly involving dramatic role, while at the same time not scarring her reputation in the acting world of film. Simply put, Jolie is a beautiful genius, and while Maleficent surely isn’t her “best” work, it does what it needs to without shedding any blood.
While Maleficent fails to succeed on many fronts, it is necessary to discuss one of the largest aspects the film miraculously manages to get just right. Maleficent looks just as glorious as it should – and I am referring to both the film and its powerful protagonist. It is actually not too much of a surprise to find that Stromberg gets the visual effects right. Before Maleficent, Stromberg worked in the visual effects departments of such films as Pan’s Labyrinth, The Golden Compass, and Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End, as well as a production designer for Avatar, Alice in Wonderland, and Oz the Great and Powerful. In Maleficent, Stromberg achieves clean equilibriums in his visual aesthetic between dark and light, somber and wonderful, and dynamic and static. He expresses emotion best not through dialogue and acting, but through color and atmosphere, a laudable feat for a man who worked so long in the visual department. Maleficent the fairy also represents the epitome of bringing fiction to life through exceptional production design and costume and makeup. In the film, Jolie is never masked or dressed up to be someone else. Instead, her accessories enhance her being and elevate her persona into the most intimidating fairy I’ve seen on the big screen in quite some time. In fantasy film, little is more important that ensuring that the larger-than-life characters still resemble reality and humanity, and Maleficent pulls this off flawlessly.
In the end, Maleficent will undoubtedly appeal to its target audience, as well as garner Jolie some new (probably younger) fans. It will also make Jolie a mountain of money. So while Maleficent may not be a cinematic success (on almost all levels), it does effectively serve its two main purposes; it allows Stromberg to take more control of his artistic visions with his own film, and it acts as a sufficient vehicle for Angelina Jolie to show her gorgeous face on the big screen after almost four years.

FINAL SCORE: 2½ out of 5 stars (raw score: 52.5, between “OK” and “a decent watch”)… Expand

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5

MovieGuysJun 7, 2014

Maleficent serves as a great return back to the screen for Angelina Jolie, but it doesn't go much farther than that. The story does nothing interesting to adapt the original tale, and the movie never moves past average. The special effectsMaleficent serves as a great return back to the screen for Angelina Jolie, but it doesn't go much farther than that. The story does nothing interesting to adapt the original tale, and the movie never moves past average. The special effects are good, and the musical score is on par, but the real reason to see this movie is Jolie. She plays a great Maleficent.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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5

raviopatraJun 4, 2014

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I have to agree with most critics for this movie. Angelina Jolie is fantastic as ever, but as my friend said as soon as the movie ended, "I would re-cast pretty much everyone but Jolie, Riley, Manville, Temple, and Staunton. Everyone else needs to go." And that's exactly how I feel as well.

The movie starts with a very good scene in which young Maleficent is depicted as a kind-hearted, powerful young fairy, protector of Moors. Young Stefan actually works for me, but not with the grown-up Stefan. The cast just doesn't work. As soon as Jolie starts wearing the costume, I feel like I'm watching Halle Berry in that horrible Cat Woman spandex costume all over again. It just didn't work. Her natural-looking appearance was perfect. I don't understand why she had to change her appearance after her wings are cut off (only to reattach again).

Elle Fanning is lovely, but she's not doing her best in this movie. I'm excited to see Oculus tomorrow which Brenton Thwaites is starring in, but his Prince Phillip character is way too irrelevant and unnecessary.

The scenes are also very predictable. I totally saw the "Maleficent is the true love" twist right after somewhere aroud the first time she connects with Aurora. It's Frozen all over again. To sum up, I think the movie would only please children and those who simply watch the movie for eye-pleasing visual. Even the climax did not get me excited.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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5

stakoAug 23, 2014

If anyone ever asks you for an example of a great idea turning into a very mediocre movie - point this title out, I'm sure the will get the idea. If not, they should watch the original Sleeping Beauty and then watch this. Better? Yeah.
ThisIf anyone ever asks you for an example of a great idea turning into a very mediocre movie - point this title out, I'm sure the will get the idea. If not, they should watch the original Sleeping Beauty and then watch this. Better? Yeah.
This movie indeed has the potential to turn around the whole Sleeping Beauty story into something much better - more intricate, cooler and even thought provoking.
The main problem I have with this movie lays withing the writing and directing. Writers Linda Woolverton and Charles Perrault simply don't give the actors anything worthwhile to work with. Constantly the movie is preoccupied with transition scenes that literally tell us what has or is going on - too obvious, even for a children's movie. I believe it isn't in Disney's style.
Director Robert Stromberg went along with it and tried to make something of it, including some beautiful scenes, and other scenes that are as if ripped out from other fantasy flicks. He has done some pretty good work in the past, however here we see mediocrity and literacy, but I'm pretty sure that came out mainly from the script.
I have to note out that this movie contains some of the worst camerawork I've ever seen - awkward zooming and totally worthless scenes included.
Other than that, actors starring here had nothing to work with to begin with, so no one is even worth mentioning. Jolie tried to make Maleficent faithful and memorable, but ultimately fails, due to reasons already mentioned.
And there is nothing more to say. It's a pretty movie, it had the potential to be a masterpiece, however it falls short to be classified as even a Disney kid film.
It can be entertaining to watch if you have nothing else to do, but that's about it.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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5

diogomendesDec 3, 2014

The visuals are striking and Angelina Jolie is phenomenal but even those points can't compensate "Maleficent" from its bland narrative and hackneyed tone.

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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5

Rivera74Jun 1, 2014

Great visual effects, but the develop of the principal character is poor. A cruel villain that actually never was a cruel villain? I recognize however, the effort that Angeline put into her character but, it was simply bad written.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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5

RoraEstJul 5, 2014

My name is Aurora, so this movie was really amazing for me. But, this is not good one. It looks like fan-fiction or something. I compared it with Snow White and The Huntsman, and Maleficent was really failed in story. Basically, I wasMy name is Aurora, so this movie was really amazing for me. But, this is not good one. It looks like fan-fiction or something. I compared it with Snow White and The Huntsman, and Maleficent was really failed in story. Basically, I was wondering when they will give me the real story of Sleeping Beauty. Rather than put Maleficent being a good fairy-godmother, they should put the story of Prince Phillip's mother who was a troll. That's the real twist in the original story. But, the CGI was awesome, very AVATAR movie. I just didn't like how it turned into 'very new-original' thing.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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5

thejakeberlinJul 6, 2014

Even with the solid and magical (no pun intended) performance from the star Angelina Jolie, the movie lacks a well thought out process. Instead of building off of a main role starring a someone sod Jolie’s caliber, it takes a turn and givesEven with the solid and magical (no pun intended) performance from the star Angelina Jolie, the movie lacks a well thought out process. Instead of building off of a main role starring a someone sod Jolie’s caliber, it takes a turn and gives us dull supporting characters who left us bored for most of the movie. Although it had a fantastic lead and some beautiful visual effects, those couldn’t lift my spirits from the average and disappointment of a showing that Maleficent gave me.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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5

BigZOct 1, 2014

I loved what was hinted at in this movie, not particularly what was done though. The visual splendor was riveting for sure. I knew that if any actress could pull off the Disney villain Maleficent, it was none other than Angelina Jolie, anI loved what was hinted at in this movie, not particularly what was done though. The visual splendor was riveting for sure. I knew that if any actress could pull off the Disney villain Maleficent, it was none other than Angelina Jolie, an all-time favorite of mine. But I cannot deny the fact that the things that made this a Disney movie is pretty much what ended up strangling it. I liked the angle of her being a fairy who isn't sure about humans but tries to connect and even love them and is betrayed in a gruesome fashion. The film seemed solid until she started to seem quite a bit softer than would be consistent for a dark fairy/witch who threatens an entire kingdom of people. It's not that she could have been more sadistic but more like all the other characters could have been smarter, like all of them. Everyone who wasn't Maleficent was either crazy or pin headed. Except maybe her helper crow. But that sort of made it an environment where she had to do everything for everyone like the nanny, kind of a weak approach for a character with such a strong presence. Meaning she needed a stronger antagonist, Sharlto Copley didn't deliver for me. Just came off a little too insane. The story just got too predictable and cliche' to stay intriguing. The visuals did not disappoint though and who can't help but love Angelina's portrayal of a famous villain. A different story all together may have proven better for her character. I mean, if everyone tells the story claiming that's how IT REALLY HAPPENED, i mean who actually knows how it really happened then? How many stories do you need to bleed dry Disney?… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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5

Akilae0Oct 3, 2014

I mulled over how to rate this movie, I knew it was only about average, but I wasn't sure if it was deserving of a four or a six. The effects were fine (nice but nothing ground-breaking) and when there was action it was fairly well done. TheI mulled over how to rate this movie, I knew it was only about average, but I wasn't sure if it was deserving of a four or a six. The effects were fine (nice but nothing ground-breaking) and when there was action it was fairly well done. The characters were consistently stupid (lets not have guards around the king and his baby during a big party). Jolie did fine as Maleficent but there were definitely moments where her acting faltered.

All-in-all it had some interesting spins on the old Disney movie (and some stupid ones) but it was not perfect. If you want to see the movie I'd recommend renting it rather than buying it, it's not worth multiple screenings.… Expand

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5

EpicLadySpongeFeb 3, 2016

Maleficent is Disney's first attempt at a movie that stars a villain to be the main role; --- correct me if I'm wrong --- however, there's almost no attempt to survive this long movie.

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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5

BroyaxOct 18, 2019

Une autre vision de la "belle au bois dormant" assez intéressante ma foi et davantage en nuances de gris qu'en noir et blanc manichéen même si à la fin, ça reste du Disney fort classique, à savoir un machin bien niais quand même !

AngelinaUne autre vision de la "belle au bois dormant" assez intéressante ma foi et davantage en nuances de gris qu'en noir et blanc manichéen même si à la fin, ça reste du Disney fort classique, à savoir un machin bien niais quand même !

Angelina s'en sort avec les honneurs même si son maquillage malhabile (et son chirurgien je suppose) ont un peu trop bricolé sur la vedette : elle a la peau tirée comme un tambour ! c'est carrément effrayant au niveau des pommettes ! Momie Angelina, sors de ton sarcophage, on t'appelle...

Une fée en colère donc et une histoire de vengeance qui ne se déroule pas comme prévu... Maléfique n'est pas si maléfique que cela mais la princesse somnolente est en tout cas une vraie bécasse, idéalement interprétée par la petite dinde, Elle Fanning, au naturel ici. On déplore hélas quelques longueurs dans le récit, à croire qu'il cherche à endormir vraiment tout le monde...

La réalisation malgré ses beaux effets reste largement perfectible et toujours brouillonne dans l'action ; on s'étonne en outre de certains choix curieux comme les trois fées "Clochette" dont deux d'entre elles sont... des vioques ! ou bien du dragon qui se laisse facilement enchaîner : est-ce qu'on lui apprend à jongler juste après ? un dragon, bordel !

Enfin, la musique est envahissante en plus d'être énervante... ou inversement. Mais pour un film Disney, c'est tout-à-fait regardable, y compris jusqu'à la fin : une petite prouesse, l'air de rien.… Expand

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5

TheFrogApr 13, 2019

I should have loved this movie. Angelina Jolie is simply perfect as Maleficent, both in appearance and in demeanor. She conveys a complex character with absolute mastery. I liked a lot Sharlto Copley too. Well, there's not really much else,I should have loved this movie. Angelina Jolie is simply perfect as Maleficent, both in appearance and in demeanor. She conveys a complex character with absolute mastery. I liked a lot Sharlto Copley too. Well, there's not really much else, secondary characters are almost non existent.
So, what is the problem? The usual Disney fare: there *is* an absolute evil, and that is male nature, as exemplified by not one but two kings, plus a number of soldiers who are depicted as little more than bullies: arrogant when they think they have the upper hand, frightened as chickens as soon as danger makes an appearance. Man is greedy, weak and treacherous. He won't hesitate to betray the most sacred ties, and is chronically unable to show even a tiny bit of love (see king towards daughter).
Yes, of course the writer behind this is a woman; unfortunately she started to enjoy her misandrist tirades too much to remember that the best villains are the ones that seduce the audience. How many of Shakespeare's villains were more interesting than the heroes? In Maleficent the main villain has absolutely no redeeming qualities, no personality, no feelings and not even the least bit of strength, he never surprises and is overpowered at every step. Remember by contrast the original Disney Maleficent: would you describe her as helpless? Not at all, and that was an important part of her sinister charm.
I understand that this idea of masculinity is now considered trendy and in fact drives many a successful production, but in this case it has produced one of the most boring villains ever. In my opinion, not a good thing for the movie.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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5

sebastianaliSep 15, 2021

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. La Bella Durmiente tiene que ser de las pocas películas clásicas de Disney que nunca me terminaron de convencer, por lo que un remake podría hacer la diferencia esta vez? Pues no, y no me sorprende, ya que no es la primera vez que Disney lo arruina con una secuela o remake. Bueno, para ser honestos, si mejoran algunos aspectos... Por ejemplo, esta vez si le dan motivo a Malefica para hacer lo que hizo, en lugar de ser un simple berrinche, y hablando de Malefica, ella si que es un personaje mucho mas desarrollado que en la original, y eso me gusta, ya no es mala porque si, aunque si que no entendí porque trato algo mal a sus habitantes solo porque le cortaron las alas, y porque ella tenia mas autoridad en el páramo que las otras hadas, pero bueno, no le bajare puntos por eso. Lo que si le bajo puntos son dos huecos argumentales. Se cuenta desde el principio de la historia que las criaturas del páramo y los humanos eran enemigos, sin embargo, nunca se nos dice porque, ademas de que por alguna razón, dejan entrar a las 3 hadas que dan los dones a Aurora, a pesar de que eran enemigos. También si quitamos el tema de ciertas escenas medio genéricas, las 3 hadas no tienen ni carisma en el remake, y no se les da casi nada de importancia, típico de Disney. Lo único que zafa de la película son sus gráficos que están muy bien y la batalla final, pero quitando eso no hay mucho que ofrezca.… Expand

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4

csw12Jun 30, 2014

Angelina Jolie was good but that is really the only positive thing to come out of Maleficent. Uninteresting characters, slow pacing and an anti-climatic final showdown provide little life in this boring film.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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4

marcmyworksJun 24, 2014

This unfortunate vanity project for Angelina Jolie could have been a thing of greatness. Not only does it suffer from complete lack of character development but it also fails to create any interest in anyone beyond the title character. We getThis unfortunate vanity project for Angelina Jolie could have been a thing of greatness. Not only does it suffer from complete lack of character development but it also fails to create any interest in anyone beyond the title character. We get a glimmer into Princess Aurora’s mind and energy but as quickly as we start to gain interest, Maleficent casts a sleeping spell; much like this film does to its audience.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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4

eagleeyevikingJun 17, 2014

A spellbinding performance from Angelina Jolie as Maleficent and brilliant visual effects can't save the movie from its flaws which consists of: shoehorned characters (Prince Philip), slow pacing and an anti-climatic final showdown.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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4

ScribeHardMay 30, 2014

Maleficent could have been a Disney live-action film for the ages; it has some of the right pieces. But with a weak foundation and suspect direction, it’s just another dull kid-flick to slug through, with a story like a cursed spindle, readyMaleficent could have been a Disney live-action film for the ages; it has some of the right pieces. But with a weak foundation and suspect direction, it’s just another dull kid-flick to slug through, with a story like a cursed spindle, ready to prick its viewers into a deep slumber.… Expand

8 of 13 users found this helpful85

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4

vikesh2206Nov 10, 2014

A spellbinding performance from Angelina Jolie as Maleficent and brilliant visual effects can't save the movie from its flaws which consists of: shoehorned characters (Prince Philip), slow pacing and an anti-climatic final showdown.

4 of 5 users found this helpful41

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4

kyle20ellisSep 9, 2020

This review contains spoilers. I think this film is okay. On the one hand, the performances are great, especially Jolie as Maleficent. The story starts out interesting and has a good first act and the third act is decent.
But the second actThis review contains spoilers. I think this film is okay. On the one hand, the performances are great, especially Jolie as Maleficent. The story starts out interesting and has a good first act and the third act is decent.
But the second act is where it fails. There are points in this film where Maleficent could be evil, but instead she becomes the actual mother of Aurora because the 3 fairies are so irresponsible, annoying, and carress. So Maleficent is the hero. UGH! There's also suspense for when the fairies move baby Aurora into a new cottage. Maleficent immediately finds them, removing all suspense, and THE BABY IS LEFT OUTSIDE AND NEARLY DIES! WTF!
I hate the fairies in this. They are so irritating, they are so careless, they are awful at raising Aurora, they get into fights, and are useless.

I wish this film kept the first act, but had Maleficent do a bunch of evil things, like burn down the castle, causing Stefan to move (adding suspense to when Maleficent finds his castle after she is taken to his new castle in the third act), kill soldiers who try to attack her, and more.

About the part of Maleficent finding Aurora, I would rewrite it to a soldier sent to bring her back the day before her 16th birthday, and Maleficent finds him about to approach the cottage before she makes Diaval kill him. I think it would've been better.

So Maleficent is an ok film imo. I do find it better if you see how this leads into the sequel. As a standalone film, it needed some improvements, but as a film leading up to an epic sequel, it's better than I make it out to be.… Expand

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4

FilmQueenOct 30, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This started out to be promising, but by the end it just became worse and worse. Retelling the story from the villain's point of view could have worked if only she had stayed a villain and the characters had acted reasonably, but nothing made any sense. Maleficent wanted revenge and she could have killed the young princess a hundred times yet she did not. The father didn't need to send his daughter away, especially not with 3 so incompetent women. He also didn't react realistically when he was reunited with his daughter considering that he was so crazy because he loved her so much and tried to protect her. I expected that the "true love's kiss" in the end is gonna be a twist and it could have worked if only it was Diaval who kissed her, because it was built up, from the very beginning it seemed like he cared about the princess. If maleficent remained a villain as she is supposed to be, it would have been nice to see that the bird/guy she tormented turns against her, ruin her evil plan and two person who suffered Maleficent's cruelty end up together. Instead, this "twist" is plain dumb, the king became completely evil for no logical reason, the villain became nice again for no logical reason... etc. Meh..everything is dumb in this movie.
So let's see the positive things... It looks good. Yeh, that's it. The visual effects are cool, the whole fantasy setting is beautiful, the costumes are great, Maleficent looks exactly as she is supposed to look. But this does not save the movie, its bad, don't watch it!… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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4

Hurricane16Mar 7, 2018

Maleficent is bad, and not even respectfully bad, because it seems like Disney didn’t even try to swing for the fences on this one

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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3

JacobMar 18, 2015

Maleficent will no doubt entertain the little girls with some dazzling visuals and an amazing performance by Angelina Jolee as the classic Disney villain. Unfortunately, I am a little girl and while this director lengthy resume with visualMaleficent will no doubt entertain the little girls with some dazzling visuals and an amazing performance by Angelina Jolee as the classic Disney villain. Unfortunately, I am a little girl and while this director lengthy resume with visual effects clearly shows it also shows that he doesn’t know much else. This is a first time director whose mainly done visuals all his life, which is reflected in his failure to tell a good story. The film starts telling a story about two good characters and it seems like we will get the interesting motivations for Maleficent being evil or a misunderstood villain but instead the film just switches the moralities leaving me wondering if the King will get his own movie where he is shown in better light. I didn’t expect much from this movie but I never thought I’d get writing this atrocious with poorly written characters, an incoherent story, and an experience that makes me want to prick my finger on the spinning wheel and die. I’d only watch this film with the sound turned off up until the credits when Once Upon a Dream plays, which is the only enjoyable part of this film.… Expand

5 of 6 users found this helpful51

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3

Alan2306May 30, 2014

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Jolie is fantastic as Maleficent but this movie doesn't know what it's doing with itself. The plot is all over the place. Stick to an idea and go for it. The "Sleeping Beauty" is asleep for all of 5mins in this movie. Ellie Fanning who plays Aurora is terrible in this too. A noble attempt to come at a classic from a different angle but it ultimately falls flat on its face.… Expand

9 of 16 users found this helpful97

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3

SurtJun 1, 2014

If I had to compare this movie to another movie of it's kind, it would have to be Snow white and the huntsman. But jolie is not theron, and this movie just hovers right below huntsman but above mirror mirror. I understand that it's a reIf I had to compare this movie to another movie of it's kind, it would have to be Snow white and the huntsman. But jolie is not theron, and this movie just hovers right below huntsman but above mirror mirror. I understand that it's a re imagining, but the script could have used some re-editing. For me I give it a 3 out of 10.… Expand

8 of 13 users found this helpful85

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3

RamonGuerreroJun 11, 2014

When you know about a project this big, you totally have very high expectations. Everything Maleficent does is to bore until the end, with nothing but a Frozen-Cliché ending. Jolie's performance was good as a loving villain, but that'sWhen you know about a project this big, you totally have very high expectations. Everything Maleficent does is to bore until the end, with nothing but a Frozen-Cliché ending. Jolie's performance was good as a loving villain, but that's definitely what I wasn't waiting for, the story is in it's self bad.
It does have some cool shots in a very boring nonsense battle.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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3

ExamnyisisJun 9, 2014

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Immediately as the film starts, a narrator tells us about Maleficent's back story. We are shown who she is, but most of what the audience knows is delivered through narration. We meet Stephen shortly afterwards. Maleficent falls in love with him because the narrator says so. However, Stephen is "ambitious" because the narrator says so. Stephen leaves Maleficent behind. She is sad because the narrator says so... The narrator eventually eases off halfway through the film. This is a poor way to impart exposition to the audience in a film, and the rest of the narrative is unfortunately weak due to further poor characterization of the antagonist and supporting characters. Jolie's performance as Maleficent saves her character somewhat. I DID like the feminist message at the end, clumsily executed as it was. Ultimately, this film suffers from very basic narrative and character deficiencies resulting from poor exposition and cliche overuse. This film is not necessarily terrible, but one should not expect to find a profound feminist narrative here.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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3

VictorBuenoJul 28, 2014

With its weak story and exaggerated scenario "Maleficent" can not meet the expectations of the viewer, and the action of Angelina Joely can't save it from disaster that is.

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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3

felix99gomezNov 12, 2014

Mediocre and acceptable visuals, and an OKAY performance by Angelina Jolie and Charlto Copley is all this movie has to offer. Annoying one-noted characters, a messy and predictable script full of cliches. Maleficent is just Meh.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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3

Movi3R3vi3werNov 27, 2014

Wow...way to take one of the greatest Disney villains, in fact one of the greatest Disney films and butcher it. This movie is a disgrace to the original source material. While beautiful looking, this movie never for once had my attention.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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3

GorbaxDec 2, 2017

A grim, poorly written film that's only real achievement is it's CGI. My hatred of Disney's recent series of reimaginings of it's classic traditionally animated movies, showing them immense disrespect and possibly harming their legacy amongA grim, poorly written film that's only real achievement is it's CGI. My hatred of Disney's recent series of reimaginings of it's classic traditionally animated movies, showing them immense disrespect and possibly harming their legacy among more discerning filmgoers not familiar with the originals.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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3

Miles_SDec 3, 2017

A grim, poorly written film that's only real achievement is it's CGI. My hatred of Disney's recent series of reimaginings of it's classic traditionally animated movies, showing them immense disrespect and possibly harming their legacy amongA grim, poorly written film that's only real achievement is it's CGI. My hatred of Disney's recent series of reimaginings of it's classic traditionally animated movies, showing them immense disrespect and possibly harming their legacy among more discerning filmgoers not familiar with the originals.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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2

ThegodfathersonJun 15, 2014

I can't say that I liked Maleficent, but can say that it was over hyped. If you have watched Sleeping beauty, there is no premise in Maleficent that is different from the original classic. But it's slow, dark and rubbish storytelling withI can't say that I liked Maleficent, but can say that it was over hyped. If you have watched Sleeping beauty, there is no premise in Maleficent that is different from the original classic. But it's slow, dark and rubbish storytelling with mind numbing effects and a not-so-bad looking Angelina Jolie, Maleficent is disappointing. I know, I know its a Disney film and I shouldn't treat it like the other movies I review but there is no hint of Disney fun here. If you'd like to see Jolie try something new, go for this film but keep in mind- it is pretty bad.… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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2

MrDexBCriticMay 31, 2014

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I am very mixed about this film. Firstly, as many critics have singled out, I must praise Angelica's acting, mainly as the first good then evil Maleficent. Now, while I could feel a little sorry for her being unable to bring this curse off Aurora, having to see Maleficent turn back into good is just unnatural. It ends up looking like a beloved Disney film that has been changed for the sake of young girls, who is only a little part of the audience, avoiding scary moments and risks. Parts of the film echoes parts of Wicked and Frozen. I start to wonder if I'm ever going to trust remakes again. If it wasn't for Disney with its stupid audience research, it could have easily looked even further into the darkness of Maleficent, which is almost no such thing in this film.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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2

KeloJun 26, 2014

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This movie is just another of the female empowerment villain victimization rewrites that has lost all of the originality of the genre. Although visually stunning the movie could not compensate for a banal plot line. The movie unnecessarily changed details about the curse that only took away from the original story without adding anything.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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2

MrMovieBuffMay 2, 2016

I must confess, I was not really a huge fan of Walt Disney's 'Sleeping Beauty' (1959), for some reason, I thought that the film was nowhere near as fun or endearing as 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' (1937) or 'Cinderella' (1950). I did,I must confess, I was not really a huge fan of Walt Disney's 'Sleeping Beauty' (1959), for some reason, I thought that the film was nowhere near as fun or endearing as 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' (1937) or 'Cinderella' (1950). I did, however, enjoy the evil presence of the ever so powerful Maleficent, thinking she could just be one of the best Disney villains of all time, you would think that making a movie about her would be interesting, especially with Oscar winner Angelina Jolie in the title role.

I am afraid that this film does not do the title character justice, 'Maleficent' commits the crime of being utterly boring, which is a word you wouldn't think could be used to describe a Disney film, but it is.

We see Maleficent from a young age, and how she meets a boy named Stefan, and they grow up together falling in love. One day, when Stefan leaves for the kingdom, Maleficent is charged with almost killing the king. The king then promises whoever kills this villainous Maleficent will be the next in line to the throne.

Sharlto Copley plays the much older Stefan, and he wants the throne so badly, that he betrays Maleficent on order to do so. Ever since this, we see Maleficent grow bitter, and when Stefan gets married and gives birth to a daughter, that's when she decides to curse the child. So, that's the reason why Maleficent did what she did, it's because the king is a cold-hearted person who is just unlikeable. If you're thinking that's not what happened in the animated classic, you are right...already this film makes no sense.

Elle Fanning plays the princess Aurora, she is convinced that Maleficent is her fairy godmother, since she has been watching her since she was a baby. The two seem to get along, and Maleficent seems to think that maybe she is overreacting, which in this case, yeah she is.

This film spends too much time showing us some colorful CGI, and numerous flying creatures as if we are in a "Harry Potter" film, but neither look impressive enough to hold our attention for more than five minutes. The film also plods along ever so slowly, for a film that is supposed to be 97 minutes long, it feels like an extra hour longer. There is no life in this film, no sense of fun and excitement...it is devoid of energy.

Angelina Jolie looks great in the role, but she is ultimately one note, I do not blame her, the blame is for the screenwriter, who just happens to be Linda Woolverton who wrote the wonderful 'Beauty and the Beast' (1991). How could a writer, who wrote something so magical, and so exciting...then go to to write something so lifeless and almost boring?

The dark colors and cartoon-ish CGI do not save the movie at all, everything about this film is just not worth your time or money. 'Maleficent' is a magnificent bore.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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1

SusanSMay 31, 2014

You can tell this film is directed by a visual effects person--the film is high on visual beauty (often to a superfluous degree) and very low on interesting or even logical storytelling. I would describe this film as "hilariously bad," withYou can tell this film is directed by a visual effects person--the film is high on visual beauty (often to a superfluous degree) and very low on interesting or even logical storytelling. I would describe this film as "hilariously bad," with an emphasis on the hilarious and the bad. The audience I was sitting in at some all just let out a collective laugh (I think it was when she started floating people through the air), and after that it just went downhill, with people openly commenting on the nonsensical plot elements and heckling the characters on screen. Basically it takes elements of more successful movies (Lord of the Rings, Frozen, Beauty and the Beast, etc) and tries to replicate their successful parts in a movie that adds very little to the story of Sleeping Beauty. The beginning of the film is the most successful; I wish they had drawn out the story of Maleficent as a child--the actress who played her was quite hypnotic.… Expand

12 of 22 users found this helpful1210

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1

kublay0880Jun 24, 2014

Come on!! I mean come on this is the meanest deadliest witches of all we are talking about!! well that aside I've never believed in Angelina as a Superhero, Super Secret agent or any Epic character, she should stick to more complex andCome on!! I mean come on this is the meanest deadliest witches of all we are talking about!! well that aside I've never believed in Angelina as a Superhero, Super Secret agent or any Epic character, she should stick to more complex and psychological characters, that's why I expected a memorable Maleficent but instead the movie kept me asking what and why and it never gave me the answer. But Disney you own the stories you can tare them apart as much as you want.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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1

alanmunguiaJun 3, 2014

Malefica es una película visualmente hermosa, es buena en ese sentido, la actuación de Jolie es por demás destacada, pero una trama de lo mas nefasta, hechos tan incongruentes y delirantes así como una narración bastante lenta eMalefica es una película visualmente hermosa, es buena en ese sentido, la actuación de Jolie es por demás destacada, pero una trama de lo mas nefasta, hechos tan incongruentes y delirantes así como una narración bastante lenta e incomprensible hicieron que el padre de la niña que se había sentado a mi lado comenzara a roncar… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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1

MegaBlade05Jun 5, 2014

Lazy writing along with poor direction is not a great combination. This CGI disaster has nothing good to offer other than a few smiles and an impressive performance by Angelina Jolie

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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0

LowbrowCinemaOct 5, 2014

I cannot stress enough my dislike and contempt for this film. MALEFICENT is one more overproduced piece of crap from the Disney machine. Angelina Jolie, who I actually like a lot, needs to get back to real acting which she has proven mostI cannot stress enough my dislike and contempt for this film. MALEFICENT is one more overproduced piece of crap from the Disney machine. Angelina Jolie, who I actually like a lot, needs to get back to real acting which she has proven most capable at. MALEFICENT is a sad indication of what some audience members actually want and we'll keep getting as long as the BO is strong (pun intended).… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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0

TiamathJun 3, 2014

This film it's an abomination. Sorry for my english, but i fell betrayed by one of the most interesting plot of this years. The trailer it's a trap, and all the script (maybe the first part it's ok) is a big slap on the face of all the adultsThis film it's an abomination. Sorry for my english, but i fell betrayed by one of the most interesting plot of this years. The trailer it's a trap, and all the script (maybe the first part it's ok) is a big slap on the face of all the adults who grew up with the sleeping beauty and the terror for one of the most iconic villain in animation history.… Expand

6 of 11 users found this helpful65

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LauraGJun 7, 2014

It was so disappointing to see how Disney allowed to destroy a Classic story like sleeping beauty. Even if the idea behind was to show why maleficent became a villain, the story changed so much that it becomes shallow and forced for the newIt was so disappointing to see how Disney allowed to destroy a Classic story like sleeping beauty. Even if the idea behind was to show why maleficent became a villain, the story changed so much that it becomes shallow and forced for the new story. The good are now the villains and the villains are now the heroes.....silly.
No creativity at all.

P.s. Seems that Disney parks in Orlando, California, París, etc. Will have to tear down their main castles, the sleeping beauty castle...ironic!… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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0

rfunesAug 1, 2015

This movie is a disgrace to the original. It manages to twist all characters from good to evil, careless and dumb. It is another try to justify evil, and to portrait the victims as the real villains. The only good part is that Disney seems toThis movie is a disgrace to the original. It manages to twist all characters from good to evil, careless and dumb. It is another try to justify evil, and to portrait the victims as the real villains. The only good part is that Disney seems to be learning from its mistakes (this one), as the new Cinderella movie (2015) is perfect.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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0

Jp117Dec 11, 2019

Terrible.....................................................................

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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Maleficent

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