775 reviews
In 2014, audiences learnt the back-story behind Maleficent, the villainess of Disney's 1959 animated film Sleeping Beauty. Rather than being just a cackling sorceress, Maleficent painted its title character as someone who rose from tragedy and betrayal to form a complex bond with the young Princess Aurora. Directed by Joachim Rønning (Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar's Revenge), this sequel continues that story, pitting Maleficent against a conniving, ruthless new foe.
Angelina Jolie continues to be all sharp-cheekboned perfection as Maleficent. We were afraid that she might phone in it given that this is a sequel, but she still appears to relish the role. Not only does she gets numerous fabulous costume changes, Maleficent goes on a journey of discovering, getting acquainted with her people and learning about their customs and beliefs. There is a conflict between her allegiance to her fae kin and to Aurora, which gives the powerful character something to struggle with.
Much of the film works because of Michelle Pfeiffer. Casting her opposite Jolie was an inspired move. The early promotional materials tried to hide it, but there's no point beating about the bush now - Queen Ingrith is the "Mistress of Evil" of the title. Pfeiffer plays the villain with sneer and swagger hidden beneath a regal façade, with shades of her witch character from Stardust sometimes visible. Coming off like a PG-rated Cersei Lannister, it's an absolute hoot.
There's a lot going on in the plot of the movie, so it is to writers Linda Woolverton, Noah Harpster and Micah Fitzerman-Blue's credit that the movie never loses sight of its emotional core: the relationship between Maleficent and Aurora. They might not be on the same page for much of the film, but it cannot be questioned that Maleficent deeply loves and cares for Aurora, something Ingrith winds up exploiting.
Just as in the first film, the show is stolen by Sam Riley as Diaval, Maleficent's shape-shifting sidekick. Riley manages to be both cool and
While the visuals are often mesmerising and transporting, the film does lean very heavily on computer-generated imagery. This is expected of a fantasy adventure film, but some of the characters do seem unnatural. The Fairy Godmothers Knotgrass (Imelda Staunton), Thistlewit (Juno Temple) and Flittle (Lesley Manville) return from the first film, and their almost-human facial features sometimes cross over into the dreaded uncanny valley.
Prince Philip is boring, but then again, this is something inherent in the source material. Brenton Thwaites, who was busy filming Season 2 of Titans, is replaced by Harris Dickinson, who constantly seems a little bit confused and flat. However, this is also a sign that the film understands that Philip is not the main character, and that he does not have to be the hero to save the day. Chiwetel Ejiofor is almost completely wasted in a relatively small supporting role.
The action sequences in Maleficent: Mistress of Evil are grand and expansive. Like most big-budget high fantasy projects these days, it seems more than a little derivative of Game of Thrones, but the big battle scenes are dynamic and lively. The movie gets surprisingly dark, with the villain's plot involving genocide by way of biological warfare. However, the movie still has a bounce and a sense of humour to it and is never too self-serious the way something like Snow White and the Huntsman and its sequel The Huntsman: Winter's War sometimes were. The big climactic battle takes place in broad daylight, which is a relative rarity in films of this type.
This film has a completely different design team than the first but maintains a sense of visual continuity while also giving us something new. The costumes by Ellen Mirojnick are stunning, especially Maleficent's battle outfit which is a sexy, elegant body paint-style number. Production designer Patrick Tatopolous creates some gorgeous fantasy environments, chief of which is the hidden fae sanctuary comprising mini-environments which have different climates.
Some of it may be overly familiar, but there's still more creativity to this than to Disney's live-action remakes which are obligated to retrace the steps of their animated forebears. Angelina Jolie and Michelle Pfeiffer pitted against each other is worth the price of admission.
Angelina Jolie continues to be all sharp-cheekboned perfection as Maleficent. We were afraid that she might phone in it given that this is a sequel, but she still appears to relish the role. Not only does she gets numerous fabulous costume changes, Maleficent goes on a journey of discovering, getting acquainted with her people and learning about their customs and beliefs. There is a conflict between her allegiance to her fae kin and to Aurora, which gives the powerful character something to struggle with.
Much of the film works because of Michelle Pfeiffer. Casting her opposite Jolie was an inspired move. The early promotional materials tried to hide it, but there's no point beating about the bush now - Queen Ingrith is the "Mistress of Evil" of the title. Pfeiffer plays the villain with sneer and swagger hidden beneath a regal façade, with shades of her witch character from Stardust sometimes visible. Coming off like a PG-rated Cersei Lannister, it's an absolute hoot.
There's a lot going on in the plot of the movie, so it is to writers Linda Woolverton, Noah Harpster and Micah Fitzerman-Blue's credit that the movie never loses sight of its emotional core: the relationship between Maleficent and Aurora. They might not be on the same page for much of the film, but it cannot be questioned that Maleficent deeply loves and cares for Aurora, something Ingrith winds up exploiting.
Just as in the first film, the show is stolen by Sam Riley as Diaval, Maleficent's shape-shifting sidekick. Riley manages to be both cool and
While the visuals are often mesmerising and transporting, the film does lean very heavily on computer-generated imagery. This is expected of a fantasy adventure film, but some of the characters do seem unnatural. The Fairy Godmothers Knotgrass (Imelda Staunton), Thistlewit (Juno Temple) and Flittle (Lesley Manville) return from the first film, and their almost-human facial features sometimes cross over into the dreaded uncanny valley.
Prince Philip is boring, but then again, this is something inherent in the source material. Brenton Thwaites, who was busy filming Season 2 of Titans, is replaced by Harris Dickinson, who constantly seems a little bit confused and flat. However, this is also a sign that the film understands that Philip is not the main character, and that he does not have to be the hero to save the day. Chiwetel Ejiofor is almost completely wasted in a relatively small supporting role.
The action sequences in Maleficent: Mistress of Evil are grand and expansive. Like most big-budget high fantasy projects these days, it seems more than a little derivative of Game of Thrones, but the big battle scenes are dynamic and lively. The movie gets surprisingly dark, with the villain's plot involving genocide by way of biological warfare. However, the movie still has a bounce and a sense of humour to it and is never too self-serious the way something like Snow White and the Huntsman and its sequel The Huntsman: Winter's War sometimes were. The big climactic battle takes place in broad daylight, which is a relative rarity in films of this type.
This film has a completely different design team than the first but maintains a sense of visual continuity while also giving us something new. The costumes by Ellen Mirojnick are stunning, especially Maleficent's battle outfit which is a sexy, elegant body paint-style number. Production designer Patrick Tatopolous creates some gorgeous fantasy environments, chief of which is the hidden fae sanctuary comprising mini-environments which have different climates.
Some of it may be overly familiar, but there's still more creativity to this than to Disney's live-action remakes which are obligated to retrace the steps of their animated forebears. Angelina Jolie and Michelle Pfeiffer pitted against each other is worth the price of admission.
The cinematography was spot on as well as sounds and visual effects. There are also many iconic scenes which are straight out of the original classic animated movie which greatly impressed me. Overall, I enjoyed watching it. It's a fun-to-watch movie. The narrative of the film can easily appeal to the young audience. However, it is best to watch the 2014 Maleficent film before watching this movie so that you will understand its story better.
It was kinda predictable, but in a nice, Disney-way... There was a sense of humor, action, fantasy and drama... I really love that Maleficent is more than just the villain,it shows that people have more layers...
Also Angelina Jolie and Michelle Pfeiffer in one movie, haven't we all been waiting for that? And upcoming star Elle Fanning showed a soft nevertheless badass Aurora... It's just a shame Brenton Thwaites (prince Philip) couldn't be in it...
- nanayuyidk
- Oct 17, 2019
- Permalink
The characters are perfect in terms of acting and emotion. The audience can touch the feelings what the characters are sending through the dialog. The computer graphics and sound are created which incredibly make the audience impressed and happy. Throughout the movie, the didactics are seen through the relationship between Maleficent and Aurora loving as a true love. Overall, the movie is better than expected.
Narong Suwannasaeng Mahasakham University, Thailand
Narong Suwannasaeng Mahasakham University, Thailand
I enjoyed the 2014 "Maleficent" movie about as much as I enjoyed this one.
First of all, I must say that the story was actually slightly more interesting and appealing than the first movie. Why? Well, there was a more dark and sinister feel to this 2019 "Maleficent: Mistress of Evil". I mean, even just the title itself has that feel to it.
Being a Disney movie, after all, there is an abundance of sugar-sweet scenes as well. And while the creatures in the movie were mostly of interesting design, some of the scenes were just overflowing with that particular Disney magic. But hey, not really a hindrance to the movie, because it does help to set that magical and mystical realm of the faeries feel that the movie needs.
The characters in the movie were good, and I love the evolution of Maleficent and the insight we are given into the character and her heritage.
Visually, then "Maleficent: Mistress of Evil" is just downright spectacular. The special effects are simply amazing and dazzling. I love the attention to detail throughout the course of the movie. And the CGI team really worked their magic to top notch quality.
They had a good selection of actors and actresses for the movie. And needless to say that Angelina Jolie is simply so right for the role of Maleficent. Michelle Pfeiffer was also quite nicely cast for her particular role and she performed rather well. I really liked the role of Diaval - as portrayed by Sam Riley. Just a shame that he didn't have a bigger role and part in the movie.
"Maleficent: Mistress of Evil" is definitely well-worth sitting down to watch, and it is suitable for most members in the audience.
My rating of this movie is a seven out of ten stars.
First of all, I must say that the story was actually slightly more interesting and appealing than the first movie. Why? Well, there was a more dark and sinister feel to this 2019 "Maleficent: Mistress of Evil". I mean, even just the title itself has that feel to it.
Being a Disney movie, after all, there is an abundance of sugar-sweet scenes as well. And while the creatures in the movie were mostly of interesting design, some of the scenes were just overflowing with that particular Disney magic. But hey, not really a hindrance to the movie, because it does help to set that magical and mystical realm of the faeries feel that the movie needs.
The characters in the movie were good, and I love the evolution of Maleficent and the insight we are given into the character and her heritage.
Visually, then "Maleficent: Mistress of Evil" is just downright spectacular. The special effects are simply amazing and dazzling. I love the attention to detail throughout the course of the movie. And the CGI team really worked their magic to top notch quality.
They had a good selection of actors and actresses for the movie. And needless to say that Angelina Jolie is simply so right for the role of Maleficent. Michelle Pfeiffer was also quite nicely cast for her particular role and she performed rather well. I really liked the role of Diaval - as portrayed by Sam Riley. Just a shame that he didn't have a bigger role and part in the movie.
"Maleficent: Mistress of Evil" is definitely well-worth sitting down to watch, and it is suitable for most members in the audience.
My rating of this movie is a seven out of ten stars.
- paul_haakonsen
- Jan 5, 2020
- Permalink
This film served as great entertainment with its colorful fantasy scene and numerous gorgeous fairy tale characters. The magnificent fantasy scene and impressive dialogue really held the audience's attention and also a bit comedy between the scene kept them on the edge of their seats. However, For a number of scenes, it needed hard to tell the flashback or more background that had passed since the last time a given character had been on screen e.g. Queen Ingrith abruptly appeared a barbaric villain as its needs to draw their setting much more in order to keep the audiences get into her reason for starting a war.
Despite the film's minor shortcomings, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil is exciting, creative, and fancy - and well worth an hour of your time to watch.
Sirichai Saengjan Mahasarakham University, Thailand
Despite the film's minor shortcomings, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil is exciting, creative, and fancy - and well worth an hour of your time to watch.
Sirichai Saengjan Mahasarakham University, Thailand
I would recommend this movie to ANYONE!! The plot was quite solid, the performances given by everyone was extraordinary and it was visually stunning!! Angelina Jolie was captivating every time she was onscreen! She's phenomenal. I could not fault it even if I wanted to! There are some interesting story arcs that will appeal to everyone! Ultimately, It doesn't feel like an "unnecessary sequel" because the story actually works! There are beautiful messages in the film and so many emotions. I've personally watched it twice!
Don't allow a group of critics influence your decision on whether you should see this film! Because at the end of the day they're simply individuals who happened to not like the movie! Should those people dictate what movie you should or shouldn't watch? I think not
The movie purposely focuses on the mother's love, it is the love that Maleficent has for her step-daughter Princess Aurora. The movie's purpose is absolutely successful because many audiences felt touched and even cried during the love scenes of Maleficent and Princess Aurora. After watching the movie, my friends even talked about one of the scenes between these two that made them cry, because they felt that the love of Maleficent for Aurora that makes her do whatever she must, even something that absolutely is opposite to her personality such as, smiling, and being kind to humans. This movie is an amazing dark fantasy adventure film with great realistic graphic details, story plot, and great acting. Although this movie contains few violent scenes that would be too much for sensitive viewers, this movie still provides valuable lessons such as a mother's love, the sacrify for others, the power of love, and the bravery. Therefore, these are the reasons why I consider this movie to be absolutely worth watching.
Patipat Suwannabut Mahasarakham University, Thailand
Patipat Suwannabut Mahasarakham University, Thailand
- bambampopo
- Nov 10, 2019
- Permalink
- sanjaya-william
- Oct 19, 2019
- Permalink
Sequel has a lot more staff for adults to like unlike his predecessor who relied to much to please kids
- marmar-69780
- Oct 19, 2019
- Permalink
- claudio_carvalho
- Jan 4, 2020
- Permalink
- SnoopyStyle
- Jan 7, 2020
- Permalink
It's hard to reinvent the wheel every single time. Especially after Maleficent (2014) already did that for the classic Sleeping Beauty story with good amount of success. So this movie will not have any elements that will shock you, however Disney writers manage to produce a decent story which is both entertaining and both visually pleasing to watch.
Angelina Jolie is great in that role and just watching her on the screen is a treat. Michelle Pfeiffer is, not surprisingly, doing a great job as the not-so-innocent queen. As children stories goes, it is quite predictable, but since this is a PG movie don't expect too many plot twists, it is written to cater to a certain audience and does that excellently.
Overall I recommend you give this movie a try if you're looking for a good family movie and you don't mind some phantasy scenery. Overall score: 68 / 100
Angelina Jolie is great in that role and just watching her on the screen is a treat. Michelle Pfeiffer is, not surprisingly, doing a great job as the not-so-innocent queen. As children stories goes, it is quite predictable, but since this is a PG movie don't expect too many plot twists, it is written to cater to a certain audience and does that excellently.
Overall I recommend you give this movie a try if you're looking for a good family movie and you don't mind some phantasy scenery. Overall score: 68 / 100
- FixedYourEnding
- Jan 5, 2020
- Permalink
- shay-67903
- Oct 18, 2019
- Permalink
Loved Elle Fanning in this a lot more than the first Maleficent. Wonderful storyline that felt like an old, classic tale, yet still contained relevant themes. It has many side characters and side storylines, which I liked for the most part.
Stunning colors, effects, costuming and cinematography.
Good balance of comedic relief and drama.
Intense battle scenes, but little/no gore. Probably a bit scary for kids younger than 7. Depends on the kid!
A couple of loose ends and plot holes but I don't mind. I was entertained, and all I can think about is the final dress Aurora wears. (!!!!!) gorgeous!
All in all I thought it was a little lighter than the first Maleficent, and more entertaining! 💜
Disney continues its interesting, even provocative remix of the Aurora legends with this sequel, with its own twists, turns, and surprises. There was a strong Princess Mononoke vibe in this sequel: an evil queen trying to remove the neighboring forest of its spirits, and doing so by manufacturing iron weapons.
Sienna's Rating: 7 Stars Sebastian's Rating: 7 Stars Paul's Rating: 7 Stars.
Sienna's Rating: 7 Stars Sebastian's Rating: 7 Stars Paul's Rating: 7 Stars.
- BabelAlexandria
- May 8, 2020
- Permalink
The writing is not good enough. The visual is amazing and so is the acting, but the script is really bad.
- shaym_levy
- Oct 23, 2019
- Permalink
I honestly don't think the people leaving reviews watched the same movie. First and foremost, it's a kids movie. As far as kids movies go, it's pretty intense. There are some interesting themes that can be difficult to explain or aren't usually explained to children (ie life is not black and white, it's grey), which I was happy to see my daughter's (age 9) reaction to at the appropriate times. This was my favorite AJ movie I've ever seen. I don't remember her having many lines, but you feel her emotions throughout (especially maternal ones). There are definitely some weird story holes...and the ending was a little too "and everyone lived happily ever after". But...it's a kid's movie and that's ok.
I love the first part ,so I went for the second. I must say there is not enough of Angelina Joile in this part ,what's happened and the war thing no. Also Aurora is very naive and weak person here ,because of her some fairy die ,don't like that . Maleficent such a beauty and her wings amazing,also the crow human- bird her eyes and ears brilliant,just the story I kind a lack off it
- blauregenbogen
- Oct 19, 2019
- Permalink
- calvinc1203
- Dec 10, 2019
- Permalink
The first film was fascinating for new idea , for the status of beginning for Angelina Jolie in a role who seems be perfect for her , for the game of apparences and for humor. The second Maleficent seems be the victim of special effects and it is saved by the clash between Jolie and Pheiffer. Sure, dynamic, powerful, seductive, dark and energetic. A nice film. Maybe more intense for an ager like me.
- Kirpianuscus
- Oct 21, 2019
- Permalink
Quite the dark film but you still get enough of the Disney magic.
I slightly enjoyed it more than the first film, although I liked the first.
It does slightly drift away and we get a little too much war at times but this is someone who enjoys the Maws and the world that's created more so than the dark moments in the film.
It's like this, you like the first you're going to enjoy the second.
- sala151183
- Oct 19, 2019
- Permalink