Maleficent (2014) Review in 2025
Maleficent is a 2014 fantasy film that tells the story of the villainous fairy Maleficent from the perspective of the character herself. The movie explores the backstory of Maleficent and her motivations for cursing Princess Aurora.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for children aged 8 and above, but parental discretion is advised due to some scary scenes and mild violence.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for fans of fantasy and adventure films, particularly those who enjoy reimaginings of classic tales. However, it may not be the best choice for viewers who prefer more traditional or faithful adaptations of the original story.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie reveals that Maleficent was once a kind and gentle fairy who was betrayed by humans, leading to her transformation into the villainous character we know from the original Sleeping Beauty tale. The film's twist on the classic story adds a new layer of depth to the character of Maleficent and provides a fresh perspective on the original tale.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a unique twist on the classic Sleeping Beauty tale. However, some plot points feel a bit rushed and convenient.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, particularly from Angelina Jolie, who brings depth and nuance to the character of Maleficent. The supporting cast is also excellent, but feels a bit overshadowed by Jolie's performance.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, particularly Maleficent, who is a fascinating and nuanced character. The supporting characters are also well-portrayed, but feel a bit one-dimensional at times.
direction8.00/10
The direction is solid, with some impressive visuals and action sequences. However, the pacing can feel a bit uneven at times, and some scenes feel a bit disjointed.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with some breathtaking visuals and impressive use of special effects. The film's use of color and lighting is also noteworthy.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's unique twist on the classic Sleeping Beauty tale, the stunning cinematography, and Angelina Jolie's excellent performance as Maleficent are all major highlights of the movie.
Cons
Some plot points feel a bit rushed and convenient, and the pacing can feel uneven at times. Additionally, some scenes feel a bit disjointed and lack a clear connection to the rest of the story.
Notable Quotes
"All shall love me and despair!"
"I am the master of my fate, the captain of my soul."
"You are the only one who sees me, who knows me, who understands me."
