Not since the Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings films have I been more excited about a movie. Yes, I waited eagerly for The Hunger Game trilogy, Thor and all of his friends, but Maleficent has me squirming on the edge of my seat.
This is what I hope to be a classic villain re-telling of a timeless Disney classic. As a child, I was terrified of Maleficent, especially when she turned into the dragon at the end. It was probably one of the most graphic deaths (next to the hanging in Tarzan) I ever saw in an animated Disney film. Blood gushed from her heart where Prince Phillip’s sword struck. I can guarantee if Sleepy Beauty was made today, Disney would completely sanitize that scene because some parent somewhere would lose their marbles. Whatev. Kids everywhere, even to this day, are terrified of that animated villain. Many parents refuse to let their kids watch that scene because they don’t want their kids to have nightmares. Parents. One word of advice. Kids love to be scared. Let them watch. Second word of advice…don’t read your child the original story thinking it’s all sweet and fluffy. Yeah. Sleeping Beauty actually goes to sleep because of a prophecy, is raped twice by the king, gives birth to two children and wakes to one suckling her finger. Now THAT’s scary and one I’m glad Disney didn’t make.
As a writer, I like to know what the motivation is behind the bad guy’s behavior. No one is 100% bad. Every villain has something good about him/her. I often wondered as an adult when I’d watch Disney’s version what caused Maleficent to turn so evil. What was her story? Well, I am about to find out. Yes, in 10 long days from today, my questions will be answered (I hope). I’ll let you know what I think of Angelina Jolie’s performance once I see the film, but right now, she’s looking oh so perfect for the role.
Check out the promotional trailers below and let me know what you think. Are you waiting to see this film as much as I am? If so, I’ll see you in the theaters on May 30. I’ll be the one with the tub of popcorn, a large soda and a bedpan, you know, so I won’t miss a thing.
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