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Rating: 3.8/5
Review: Maleficent movie review"

Fairy tales are popular to be adapted into movies. The trend for these adaptions is to make them dark and brooding like Snow White and the Huntsman. Maleficent is not as dark as the trailers suggest. Bear in mind that it is by Disney. Disney are always known for kid-friendly movies even for live-action such Alice in Wonderland and Oz the Great and Powerful. Sure, this movie may feel gloomy but the spirit of it is actually more light-hearted than serious. There is no serious sense of threat. Maleficent is at most an entertaining one and a half hours CGI spectacle.

The story: Before watching this, I'm sure viewers will know who Maleficent is even without watching the classic animated movie by Disney. She has an iconic evil image. The director is more interested in re-imagining her character in this live-action movie. Fans of the classic should be aware that this movie is not a remake and it is catered to her so there may be a few major changes. Story is as straight-forward as what Disney movies have been. The expensive movie is well shot and looks visually beautiful. The extensive use of CGI over-powers the story and emotions at times. The few action scenes such as the battle in the first act and the climax look decent but rely on CGI too much. Acting wise is good. Angelina Jolie does a good job in portraying Maleficent. Supporting roles such as Elle Fanning and Sharlto Copley do fine acting. Music by James Newton Howard sounds fine although it brings nothing entirely new to the table.

Overall: It is a pretty good looking movie if you are interested in movies that rely on visuals to tell a story. Otherwise the movie is a little short to make an impact in characters' development. Not to say that it is entirely bad. It is saved by the cast's performances and great visuals and these can make up an entertaining watch. I hope there will be a director's cut someday. I am sure there are more scenes in the cutting room.

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