Review of Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019) by Pillis — 23 Oct 2019

Well well...I was certainly not expecting such an improvement over the first movie. It's definitely darker and more brutal than expected and also much better directed. Good camera work, elaborate costumes and stunning set pieces one after the other.

The CGI looks amazing too showing this is truly an expensive and well crafted movie rich in details and visual beauty. The script doesn't offer an original and groundbreaking story but it's well written with some witty dialogues and a focused narrative that's easy to follow.

While the phoned twists might appear naive for adults I am sure kids will enjoy this elegant film about self discovery, family, war, loss, friendship, love, hate and everything in between. Elle as Aurora has one intense scene where she is showing some skills as an acretess but overall gives a flat performance yet she is never the key protagonist of the story so in the end she seems an OK choice to portray an innocent and naive girl with a pure heart.

She is still very likeable and never gets on your nerves as many Disney princesses. The Prince of the other hand is ridiculous. The two protagonists here are Angie and Michelle, both stunningly beautiful and immensely talented and good in their roles.

Queen Ingrid is evil and her story perfectly justifies the first movie and the original story of The Sleeping Beauty. Maleficent goes through a self discovery journey rising above all. The movie is a good spectacle, aesthetically flawless, with great characters and a convincing plot.

It's not a masterpiece but a very good sequel and a fun night out at the theatre. IMAX or Laser 4K is recommended. The UHD Blu Ray seems a must given the high number of beautiful Angelina close ups, HDR and Dolby Vision will make the movie pop so nicely.

Recommended.