Movie Review: Maleficent

Tonight I headed to the theatre to see Disney's new live-action film, Maleficent. Starring Angelina Jolie, the film tells the classic story of Sleeping Beauty, but in a new way.

I want to talk more a bit about specifics of the film, and we will, but first lets start with the obvious question. How was the movie? Did I like it? In a word, it was --

Magnificent.

Gorgeous.

Majestic.

Thrilling.

Poignant.

Phenomenal.

Ok so that's more that just one word but I can't help myself! I loved loved loved it, from start to finish. Sleeping Beauty is my all-time, #1 favorite Disney movie and so I went into it with big expectations.

And this film delivered.

The story begins by giving the audience some background about Maleficent; her history, her narrative & why she took a turn towards the dark side.  I won't give away any spoilers but I loved the way this first part of the movie layed the ground work for the rest of the film.

We meet Aurora, played at various ages by a few actresses. We see a toddler Aurora, played adorably by the cherubic & darling Vivienne Jolie-Pitt, Angelina's daughter in real life. She was so precious! (And looks JUST like her daddy, Brad Pitt. That kid's got some gene pool.)

Elle Fanning (younger sister of Dakota Fanning) plays the teenage Aurora. She was sweet yet strong, everything you want in Sleeping Beauty. I thought she was a marvelous choice and was a spot-on Aurora.

I won't spoil the story line for you - I want you to see it for yourself! Suffice it to say, the story takes twists & turns with the classic fairy tale. You see new story arcs from beloved & familiar characters. You might even leave the theatre feeling different about Ms. Maleficent.

I can't say this strongly enough. GO GO GO see this movie. You won't be disappointed.

Have a magical day!