Although this isn’t really my kind of movie and I will probably never see it again, I must admit that I enjoyed Maleficent.  If its inconsistencies could have been avoided it would be well worth watching; as it is, it’s an entertaining tale with more heart than I expected, amidst all the requisite special effects scenes.

Disney’s dark version of Sleeping Beauty focuses not on the young girl who falls into the deepest sleep imaginable, but the titular woman whose curse puts her there. Angelina Jolie portrays Maleficent, and I don’t know of anyone who could have done a better job.  Jolie has always been an underrated actress and when she is cast correctly is as good as anyone.  She’s perfect here as the faerie queen betrayed by a greedy man (Sharlto Copley), who isn’t quite as evil as she wants to become, even if her cheekbones are digitally sculpted to make her more menacing.

The story’s different perspective is intriguing, and even though this is a darker version of the familiar fairy tale, plenty opportunity is afforded for humor.  Robert Stromberg’s film succeeds best in the middle sections, after Maleficent has decreed her curse and before the big climactic battle to the death, as Maleficent spends her days watching over and getting to know “the little beastie,” as she calls Aurora (Elle Fanning).  Her gradual softening of the heart is handled beautifully.

I like other aspects of the film as well, but the final act doesn’t hold together very well, especially involving the King and his relationship to his cherished daughter.  If you enjoy fantasy and fairy tales, you’ll enjoy Maleficent.  It’s a film which, while certainly not great, will remain in my memory for quite a while, and it redefines the career of Angelina Jolie for a new generation.  ☆ ☆ 1/2.  24 June 2014.