I've been on pins and needles for the opening of "Maleficent" since I first heard that it was being made back in 2012. Two years is a long time to wait for a movie to come out, but there was something about the story behind Disney's "most evil" villain that was begging to be told. And hello, it was going to star Angelina Jolie as Maleficent herself ... talk about ideal casting!
Fast forward to earlier this month, when I had my first chance to screen "Maleficent" in Los Angeles. My excitement was overflowing, as I took in every second of the 97-minute, PG-rated film (in 3D, no less!). Even with the highest expectations, somehow they were exceeded. I was simply blown away by all of the elements— action, artistry and suburb acting — "Maleficent" had everything. And the story behind the story of "Sleeping Beauty" is beautifully told, with characters you know and love (Aurora! The fairies! The raven!) and the perfect twist ending that you don't initially see coming.
“Maleficent,” the untold story of Disney’s most iconic villain from the classic “Sleeping Beauty,” reveals the events that hardened Maleficent’s heart and drove her to curse the baby, Aurora, only to later realize that the child may hold the key to peace in the land.
I loved the film so much that I took my family to the first available showing last night— not just for them, but for me. I couldn't wait to see it again to take in anything I missed the first time. Even in 2D, "Maleficent" was magnificent. My 9-year-old simply LOVED the movie and its fantasy theming. This morning, one of the first things out of her mouth was "Mom, can we see Maleficent again?". My husband, who has his own Maleficent review, said it exceeded his expectations and then some. "Maleficent" is truly a family film with a great message!
I could go into detail about how the movie unfolds, but I recommend going in spoiler-free for this one. I know parents are concerned about some of the trailers that seem a bit scary, even with a PG rating. I didn't think the character of Maleficent was frightening at all. The "darker" scenes are those surrounded by a battle, with soldiers and elements of fire— there is no blood. I expect young boys would be enthralled by the dragon, rather than scared by it. "Maleficent" would be in the same category as the Harry Potter films. My personal recommendation is for ages 6 and up, assuming your child(ren) are not overly sensitive to loud noises or mystical creatures. If you have any doubts, see the film first for yourself.
Trust me on this one— "Maleficent" is not to be missed. Bring your kids, make it a movie night and enjoy the story behind the classic tale of "Sleeping Beauty" ... You'll walk away with a whole new outlook on the meaning of true love.
For more exclusive MALEFICENT coverage, be sure to check out my interview with Angelina Jolie as Maleficent, Elle Fanning as Aurora, and Sharlto Copley as King Stephan.
"Maleficent" is now open in theaters nationwide!
Special thanks to Walt Disney Pictures for inviting me out to Los Angeles to preview MALEFICENT. All opinions are my own.
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