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MOVIE REVIEW

Maleficent

also known as “Maléfica,” “Maleficent,” “Maléfique,” “Malévola,” “Malefisent,” “Maleficent - Die dunkle Fee,” “Maleficent - Pahatar,” “Demóna,” “Czarownica,” “Grdana,” “Zlurada”
MPA Rating: PG-Rating (MPA) for sequences of fantasy action and violence, including frightening images.

Reviewed by: Pamela Karpelenia
CONTRIBUTOR

Moral Rating: Average
Moviemaking Quality:
Primary Audience: Kids Family Teens Adults
Genre: Dark-Fantasy 3D
Length: 1 hr. 37 min.
Year of Release: 2014
USA Release: May 30, 2014 (wide—3,800+ theaters)
DVD: November 4, 2014
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Relevant Issues
Copyright, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Does the natural human heart lead us to goodness or evil? “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked…” —Jeremiah 17:9. We are born sinful, not pure. Following our own feelings, such as anger, hate and desire for revenge, leads to great sinfulness. Instead, we need to follow the wisdom and instruction of God.

What are the dangers and temptations of sin/evil?

FORGIVENESS—importance of forgiving those who wrong us

Dragon

Dragons and dinosaurs—Discover how they are connected

Dragons in the Bible

Dangers of real Satanic-inspired sorcery

Magic in the Bible

Sorcery in the Bible

Enchantments

Witches and witchcraft

THE OCCULT—What does the Bible say about it? Answer

Satan in the Bible

Is Satan a real person that influences our world today? Is he affecting you? Answer

SATAN’S STRATEGY—What is one of Satan’s most successful strategies in dealing with followers of Christ? Answer

What is one of Satan’s most successful strategies in dealing with followers of Christ? Answer

Devil and demons in the Bible

Featuring Angelina JolieMaleficent
Elle FanningPrincess Aurora
Juno TempleThistletwit
Brenton Thwaites … Prince Phillip
Sharlto Copley … Stefan
Ella Purnell … Teen Maleficent
Hannah New … Leila
Sam Riley … Diaval
Imelda Staunton … Knotgrass
Vivienne Jolie-Pitt … Toddler Princess Aurora
See all »
Director Robert Stromberg — “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End,” “The Hunger Games,” “The Golden Compass”
Producer Moving Picture Company
Roth Films
Walt Disney Pictures
Distributor

Sequel: “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil” (2019)

When I first saw Angelina Jolie in full make up and costume, I was amazed. She so resembled the 1959 Disney “Sleeping Beauty” villain I grew up watching as a child. I was so very impressed with that sneak peek, I sought out this film. I was lucky enough to have a friend who shared my enthusiasm and joined me on this assignment.

“Maleficent” opens with a vividly scenic fairytale forest in a dreamlike backdrop. Instantly, I was held visual captive by this scene-scape. The narrator begins to speak, and reveals we are about to hear a very different version of “Sleeping Beauty,” one that we have never heard before. We are soon introduced to a young Maleficent, the most powerful and beautiful fairy with beautiful wings. She soon meets a human servant boy named Stefan, they become close friends and a share a kiss. There is unrest between human and fairy kind, Stefan and Maleficent grow apart, animosity and hatred between the two worlds escalates to a defining battle. The king is critically injured by Maleficent and promises his crown to anyone who kills the winged fairy.

Stefan, who is now a grown man, covets the power of the crown. Remembering his younger years, Stefan goes to Maleficent, drugs her and plans to kill her, but instead cuts off her wings and brings them to the dying king as proof of her demise. Maleficent awakens to find herself wingless and her heart goes dark because of the betrayal. Stefan is crowned king. This is the foundation for this side of the tale.

I’ll start with the acting performances. Angelina Jolie is simply remarkable! From the costume to her make-up and on point acting, Angelina Jolie is magnificent. Sharlto Copley (King Stefan) also does a wonderful job; the range of emotions betrayed are believable and consistent. As for Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning), I would say she gives mediocre performance, and it leaves a lot be desired. I understand that Jolie is a powerhouse, but unfortunately Fanning doesn’t hold her own. The cinematography, art direction and writing are very sound.

As for offensive material, there isn’t much. There is fantasy witchcraft, spells and magic, which is expected considering the source material. Another aspect is the violence, there are some battle scenes that are moderate.

The film deals with vengeance. And shows what holding on to such negative and sinister thoughts can do to one’s own heart.

1 John 2:11—But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.

It also has redeeming quality when it deals with forgiveness of those who wrong us.

Luke 6:27—But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you.

This is a lesson that should hit home with Christians in these troubling times.

The movie is an overall Grimm-like, whimsical tale, with nuggets of truth that make it relevant.

Violence: Moderate to heavy / Profanity: None / Sex/Nudity: Minor

Editor’s Note: Although rated “PG,” this film is a dark fairytale rewrite that deserves more parental caution than the rating suggests. The reviewer did not address how this movie may affect young minds. It may be too scary for some—certainly younger ones—and may push the rating limit for darkness, scariness and violence. ***SPOILER*** Sleeping Beauty’s own father turns out to be the primary villain—a worrisome message for kids. Angelina Jolie’s character is an anti-hero—first happy and good, then very evil and demonic in appearance, and then good—surely a confusing personality for the mind’s of children, in a movie that tugs at hearts to root for this villain. ***END SPOILER*** Although an adult mind can sort through, and perhaps enjoy, such complexities, parents should ask themselves whether a negative hero is a proper moral hero for children—providing what they need, a clear understanding of what is good and evil—inspiring them to always do what is right. Another concern is that fairytale fantasy magic, curses and witchcraft may be confused with the real kind that the Bible strongly warns about. As always, before deciding to view a film, please read the Viewer Comments as they come in to gain a more complete picture of the movie’s pros and cons.

See list of Relevant Issues—questions-and-answers.


Viewer CommentsSend your comments
Positive
Neutral—We took our three boys, 12, 11, and 8 to see this. I asked my 8 year old what he thought of the movie the next day. He said, “It was too girly.” That really about sums it up. He actually really liked “Sleeping Beauty” when he was 6. What boy wouldn’t want to be the hero slaying the dragon, and saving the princess. *possible spoiler* No male heroes here.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Average / Moviemaking quality: 4½
Michelle, age 39 (USA)
Positive—I was pleasantly surprised with this movie! I loved it! I went with a group of teens who said it was OK but for a mom, it was a touching and beautiful movie. It may have parts too scary for 5 and under, but no worse than other kid movies out there. No bad language or obscenities of any kind. No sex or sexual innuendos. No political agendas.
It is a truly great movie with a lesson about forgiveness and true love that our kids need to see.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5
Melinda, age 48 (USA)
Positive—It seems the fairy tales have tricked us yet again. Maleficent retells the story of Sleeping Beauty—except this time, the tale does not begin with the birth and christening of Princess Aurora. Rather, it begins with a young fairy named Maleficent. Maleficent isn’t your average fairy, however. She is the size that any human child would be at her age. Horns, similar to a ram’s horns, grow from her head, and a pair of beautiful feathered wings extend from her back. Maleficent is beautiful, kind, and good. She takes care of her home, the Moors—a fairy-land full of mysterious and magical creatures. She is practically a princess herself.

One day, a young human boy strays into the Moors from the neighboring human kingdom. Maleficent and Stefan meet and become friends. As the years pass, their friendship turns to love. Although Stefan tells Maleficent that their love is true love, Stefan leaves one day to pursue his dream of becoming a great man in the kingdom. While they are apart, the kingdom begins attacking the Moors in order to overcome the magical realm. Maleficent is powerful, however, and she defends her home, fatally wounding the king in a great battle. On his deathbed, the king promises his crown to anyone who can overcome Maleficent. See all »
My Ratings: Moral rating: Good / Moviemaking quality: 5
Leah Hickman (USA)
Positive—Wow! This is a life lesson movie! A little scary for my 6 year old but my 7 and 9 year olds learned about: holding on to your anger, guilt, forgiveness, redemption, and love. Afterward, we all talked about how we can be like Maleficent and Stephen ourselves and how wonderful it is that Jesus forgives us. He is our ultimate example!!!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Good / Moviemaking quality: 5
Candy, age 39 (USA)
Positive—This is an outstanding movie in every respect (plot, music, acting, special effects, etc.), and my family and I give it two very enthusiastic thumbs up! Very interesting plot twist and a happy ending is always nice. A must-see on the big screen!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Better than Average / Moviemaking quality: 5
Greg T., age 49 (USA)
Positive—I enjoyed the twists in this retelling of “Sleeping Beauty.” True love and hate were shown for what they are: choices that we make as individuals. It was well made and well acted. Bravo Disney, well done! I was disappointed to sit through all the credits and not get an extra film clip at the end.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Better than Average / Moviemaking quality: 5
Trina, age 46 (USA)
Positive—I saw this film yesterday with my closest friend, and we enjoyed it immensely. You may be familiar with the classic story of The Sleeping Beauty via the fairytale of the same name by The Brothers Grimm, La Belle Au Bois Dormant (an earlier version of the story by Frenchman Charles Perrault) and/or, of course, the 1959 animated version from Walt Disney Pictures. But this new incarnation isn’t the story you think you know… To say anymore would ruin the surprises contained in this fantastic new interpretation of the story written by Linda Woolverton, who wrote the screenplay for Walt Disney Pictures’ animated classic “Beauty and the Beast” and co-wrote the screenplay for “The Lion King,” another classic motion picture.

Biblically speaking, there are two battle sequences, which may be intense for children under ten years of age, so parents, PLEASE take the PG rating seriously and see the film yourself before taking your kids to see it. There was a small child (or two) in one of the rows above where my friend and I were sitting, and the child was crying during the battle sequences and whenever Maleficent was on screen. However, there is little to no blood in the film, and a soldier is seen with burns on his face in the middle of the picture. See all »
My Ratings: Moral rating: Good / Moviemaking quality: 5
D, age 28 (USA)
—Wonderful movie and good time. Highly recommend that you see it. Was the best family movie so far this year—funny and full of magic and adventure. A little TOO girly for some boys. Probably around 10 and under, but still good see it
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 4
Chris Dye, age 24
Positive—I saw this movie today, and I thought it was excellent. Anyone who would call this movie “average” has not seen many modern day films. The only thing that prevented me from saying good was the fact that some Christians are offended by magical fantasy content, and there was some violence (although tastefully done). I think this movie has some excellent messages about forgiveness and that revenge is not all it’s cracked up to be. The evil character in the film is not murdered by anyone other than himself, as he attacked the other main character, and she exercised self-defense. In fact she had the opportunity to kill him, but decided not to.

Although there was no redemption for that particular character (isn’t that the same as real life?), there is redemption for Maleficent herself. I like how Disney is toning down some of its “evil characters” as in the past that was often so over done. They are also making an effort to show that love at first sight is not really reality but developing friendships is.

Betrayal was at the heart of this story, and also about second chances in some ways. The loose ends are tied up nicely and it is very well acted. Many of the actors are from the U. K. With a few Aussies and South Africans with similar accents thrown in for good measure. I was interested to learn that Elle Fanning has royal connections and is distantly related to Kate Middleton, even though she is American.

I’d recommend this film for the story, special effects and scenery. It presents a positive example for young women and there is no swearing or inappropriate sexuality of any kind. There are a couple of kisses, but hey it’s the story of Sleeping Beauty. It’s a nice new spin on the story and yes that’s a pun, haha.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Better than Average / Moviemaking quality: 5
Kathy Pj, age 54 (Canada)
Maleficent
Positive—Thus far, “Maleficent” is my favorite movie of 2014. It has stunning imagery, landscapes, costumes, music, etc, almost on par with “The Lord of the Rings,” in my opinion. However, it’s not just the visual feast that makes this film so enjoyable; the story is an emotional, beautifully re-told one with many excellent lessons from which to learn, along with dashes of comedy to lighten the mood.

To me, this movie has three themes—innocence, the consequences of sin, the power of love—that intertwine throughout. At the beginning of the story, both Maleficent and Stefan are innocent children, full of wonder, joy, and love for each other and everything around them. Over time, though, Stefan allows the sin of greed to thrive in his heart, ***SPOILER*** until he is willing to sacrifice his relationship with Maleficent and permanently maim her in order to inherit the throne.See all »
My Ratings: Moral rating: Better than Average / Moviemaking quality: 4½
Christina, age 21 (USA)
Positive—I saw the movie and was impressed. I have read so many negative reviews from other Christian sites and even here, and quite frankly am dumbfounded by the pushback. I don’t see any hidden agenda to deny original sin. Nor to push a radical feminist worldview on anyone declaring all men are evil. Don’t see this film as paving the way for introducing the anti-Christ. Don’t see it’s intent to strip us of any patriotic ideals. Nor do I see it as a message of declaring evil good and good evil. See all »
My Ratings: Moral rating: Good / Moviemaking quality: 4
Don Lambirth, age 46 (USA)
Positive—Excellent spin on the classic, “Sleeping Beauty”. This is one of the better epic fantasy movies that has come along in a while. A. Jolie is exceptional as Maleficent. Personally, I think this movie is better then the recent “Hobbit” series or the “Harry Potter” series regarding creating a sense of wonder related to the visuals and the overall feel of the screenplay. This movie is visually stunning, the story quite captivating, and the acting is very good.

If you are a fan of fantasy video games like “Aion” or “Linnege II,” then you’ll love this movie’s effects and dazzlingly created “look”. Overall, it’s a beautiful movie on the screen, whose dynamic tension is well balanced by its humor.
My Ratings: Moral rating: / Moviemaking quality: 4½
Cooper, age 50+ (USA)
Positive—I watched the DVD “Maleficent”. It is a stunning movie and shows that CGI is drawing near perfection. The main actors do a superb job. I did not realize who the actress Maleficent was until the end and without giving her name away, she deserves an Oscar. “Aurora” is the sleeping beauty, and she certainly convinced me.

The storyline is a retelling of the story of Sleeping Beauty. The movie begins with, “Let me tell you how it REALLY happened…” The colorful scenery is very realistic and may make one think it actually exists somewhere on Earth. It could be a preview of heaven.

The storyline may be intense for small children because during fights, people are beaten and some die, but no blood is shown. In my opinion, it is the next best thing to “The Wizard of Oz” in the fantasy category.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Average / Moviemaking quality: 5
Keleb, age 63
Positive—I really love “Maleficent.” It reminds me of myself, in a way. When I was broken hearted by someone who kind of reminded me of King Stephen, in a way. Not that far, but similar. Since “Maleficent” was good at first, then had her heart torn out—became bitter and hateful and vengeful. I could of been the same way, but Jesus Christ is my Rock and like Maleficent, I am learning to overcome and forgive and love and show mercy… Cannot wait for the 2nd “Maleficent” film! For some reason, when my heart was broken, I became kind of engrossed in “Maleficent.” God, and the film helped me overcome, though I still have a ways to go…
My Ratings: Moral rating: Good / Moviemaking quality: 5
Valerie Mihelcich, age 52 (USA)
Neutral
Neutral—I want to respond to some of the comments here. This review does have spoilers. First, while I agree there are some redeeming features in the film, it suffers from some very bad messages, and a disturbing trend in revisionist fairy tales. Yes, Maleficent is “redeemed,” but the king, who spared her life many years ago, is not. The king is killed (dare I say “murdered”) at the end. There is no redemption for man in this film, and apparently the daughter is okay with it.

Second, the idea that there is no “true love” of men and women is a recurring theme in this society and revisionist fairy tales. That “true love’s first kiss” is not a knight in shining armor is not new to this film, either. It has been done several times before—most recently in the vastly superior “Frozen” (an excellent film). Here it just seems more of the man hating feminism that may underlie the film and Maleficent’s bitterness.

This is the final problem; all the heroes are women, and all the villains are men. There are no exceptions (unless you count the crow). It is a trend in revisionist fairy tales that is an attack upon family and the idea that marriage between a man and woman is the “happily ever after” which God intended. It is a bad message for young children.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Very Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4
David C, age 47 (USA)
Neutral—As a movie about a fairy of the Moors, I would have given this a positive w/ better than average moral ratings. The movie does show consequences of Human choices (presumed to be the same for spirited fairies) and the power of love and forgiveness. However, this movie proclaimed to be about Maleficent, not simply a guardian fairy. Maleficent stood for darkness and evil, and was seen as that in the original tales.

Moreover, the movie professes to answer questions (that were not raised before) about Maleficent’s true intentions. Her intentions always seemed direct and harmful, and she was feared by young children. This Maleficent tries to blur the lines- to suggest evil (as the name implies) is not so bad- this is what made it morally offensive for me. Children come away thinking- That the original Maleficent (who showed no change of heart) and Evil are not that harmful.

There were many good lessons entwined, but I would have liked it, if, it had not focused so much on the power of Maleficent. It would have been nice to see the humans capable of acting on love and changing for Good.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 3½
Jerry, Concerned Parent, age 50s (USA)
Neutral—My Positive comments aside, I would like to add one last observation about “Maleficent.” We, as Christians, are to love the things that the Lord, Adonai Elohim, loves, and hate what He hates. So it becomes clear to me that I will have to discuss this film at length with my children, if they ever happen to view it in the future. What I want them to see is that, despite the evil king’s evil actions, Maleficent’s bitterness and hostility is not the right path to take either. And that, unlike in “Maleficent,” True Love is between a man and a woman… just like in one of my favorite stories: “The Princess Bride.”

See all »
Luke Spink, age 31 (USA)
Neutral—I thought Disney’s “Maleficent” was a very odd interpretation of the titular Disney villain. It should be noted that while magic is shown in this movie, fairies are shown to be a separate species from humans with differences in their biological makeup; they are never shown to be communicating with spirits or demons, so this magic seemed more fairytale than occult. I felt it was very strange to have Princess Aurora’s father be the villain of the movie, especially since the classic version has him as a good father. While I appreciate the message that some evil people can truly change, it still feels weird that a Disney villain was selected for this choice for this message. …
My Ratings: Moral rating: Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4
Peter, age 28 (USA)
Negative
Negative—…this tale twists evil into good and vice versa. Nature is god. Men are evil. Etc. The movie is visually beautiful. Disney-clever. From a moral standpoint the movie was horrible. Everything that used to be good has been turned to evil in this movie. Everything. And the evil Maleficent is now “good.” By the way, why does such a wonderful creature have a name like Maleficent and have devilish horns?
My Ratings: Moral rating: Very Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 5
Gary Coon, age 61 (USA)
Negative—The movie clearly has Satanic undertones. The character Maleficent seems to be a reflection of a demon or possibly Lucifer, with the horns, bat wings, and all black. This movie seems to say that the executives of Disney are saying that Satanism is okay, and that the Bible is wrong. The only reason, the movie seems to suggest, that Lucifer is evil is because mankind hurt her. In the movie, Maleficent starts pure, innocent, and good, and man is evil. When man hurts her, she avenges man, seeking to destroy him, taunting him, backed by a seemingly pure and innocent army of fantastic creatures. I read about earlier versions of Maleficent, who were much more evil.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Extremely Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4½
David B, age 44 (USA)
Negative—We all have our own filters we see things through. One person may see “Maleficent” as a wonderful story of good versus evil where unconditional love melts the villain’s heart. Another may see “Maleficent” as the media’s latest attempt to steer our minds into feeling sorry for the villain, and confusing our natural barometer of what is good and what is evil. Disney has always triggered red flags for me; I watch their movies with a careful eye. Ever since Mickey Mouse became the “Sorcerer’s Apprentice,” and a fairy godmother had the almighty power to create life in a lifeless puppet (Pinocchio)… I have had my guard up.

Sure, it’s just a movie, just a tale, just a fantasy, but I know the power of media. I trust my intuition, and it’s telling me to beware. Here’s why: The name is Maleficent… yet she is the good hero at the end. She looks like a vampire… yet she is believed to be a fairy godmother by Aurora. See the trend? “Let’s revise what we’ve all been told… and believe something else, after being shown the “rest of the story.” See all »
My Ratings: Moral rating: Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4
TLC, age 53 (USA)
Negative—Although this movie does have some redeeming and positive elements, overall, I believe it is part of Hollywood’s revisionist attempt to subvert all that is good. The basic problem here is that Hollywood, apparently in an attempt to be “edgy” has decided to revise our fairy tales so that there is no clear hero, and no clear villain. This is contrary to what I consider the primary purpose of fairytales, which is to train up children to love a hero and loathe a villain.

Fairytales serve an important function in transmitting at least 4 key cultural tropes to the next generation. 1. Belief in the Supernatural (or God) 2. Belief in heroism and trying to be heroic 3. Belief in romance and getting married 4. Belief in patriotism and loving your country

All four of these beliefs are damaged and subverted by this movie.

1. The Supernatural is pretty much only represented by evil witchcraft. God is not really present in the movie.

2. Heroism is subverted because the villain turns out to be pseudo-heroic. There is no clear hero, only a villain who manages to reform herself. Big whoop.

3. The two main love interests do not get married in this movie. (This is a disturbing trend in Disney movies lately, because for the modern liberal mind apparently marriage is no longer something to celebrate unless you are gay).

4. Patriotism or love of country is also subverted because the human king and kingdom turn out to be the evil villains.

Yep, there can be no doubt that Disney has been infiltrated and taken over by liberals who are trying to be, you know, “original thinkers” by which they mean “let’s attack all that is holy and good and invert all traditional values to glorify their polar opposites.” So yeah, I didn’t really like the movie, in case you can’t tell.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Very Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 5
Tim, age 40 (USA)
Negative—I am very concerned about how evil is being portrayed in the movies presently. “Maleficent” follows the same theme which is evil is just misunderstood or they could not help it because of their circumstances. When I was last at the Disney parks, I noticed a lot of more villains than when I grew up as a child. There were hardly any villains. I mention this because our society seems drawn to evil.

In the movies Star Wars 1, 2, and 3, people sympathized with Anakin becoming Darth Vader. He believed that he would save his wife if he turned to evil. Now, people can sympathize with Maleficent. She was actually kind and good, like Anakin, but had to turn evil because of the wrong that was done to her. Disney almost makes it justified her change.

What is forgotten is that she chose to do evil just like Anakin chose to go to the dark side. Parents, I would caution to be aware that the message that is sent to our children is it is OK to choose evil, if evil has been done to you. The Bible says to do good to those who are evil to you. Pray for those who despitefully use you.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 4½
Karen, age 48 (USA)
Positive—(Karen): Don’t get me wrong, I love my fellow Christians. But, contrary to what many other Christians, besides myself, have come to think about Maleficent, it is not a movie that promotes evil in any sense and needs to be understood as such. Maleficent is simply a fairy. She is never portrayed as a witch, a sorceress, or a soothsayer or even a druid. Yet it is her natural, inborn abilities that give her fantastical powers that we humans do not understand with full comprehension. Think of her as another species of humanoid on Earth. The bad feelings might come for such a being because they possess a particular level of control over nature than a human being does. See all »
My Ratings: Moral rating: Excellent! / Moviemaking quality: 5
Luke Spink, age 31 (USA)
Negative—This was a surprise. … it was purely evil! I don’t know why I thought it would be anything else. Yes, it tries to paint a picture of good going to evil because of the circumstances… then back to gooď? I don’t think so. You may have said that Satan was good and fell because of his circumstances. … and he’s really good… that’s preposterous! Evil and darkness are of the devil, period! I am appalled that any Christian could say it is good in any way. It’s like all those people out there that say Harry Potter is ok… well how can it be when it’s teaching children about sorcery. … wizards and witches… all evil—told so in the Bible! I cannot recommend this to anyone… especially children!
My Ratings: Moral rating: Extremely Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 3
Roseneri, age 60 (USA)
Negative—I am disappointed because I depend on this site to give me good Christian advice from other believers who have seen movies. I just saw this movie because so many people said many positive reviews on this site, however I had great reservations beforehand. I CANNOT believe how much demonic sorcery and in your face witchcraft is in this movie. Sure it’s a “fairy tale” and every one of them does have some kind of magical powers and spells, however this one takes it to a whole new level! And for the original reviewer to say “As for offensive material, there isn’t much.” Are you kidding me? Yes it is highly offensive to a Christian to magnify such demonic powers of witchcraft.

It certainly concerns me that so many Christians are desensitized to something like this and call this a must see movie! Yeah, if you want to fill your mind with things of the devil, that is reality. And she had this crow she kept turning into a human and his name is practically pronounced like ‘devil’. I am sickened to think that so many Christians have on here have embraced this movie. God help us to want to fill our minds and hearts with things of God, NOT things of the demonic realm.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Extremely Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 1
Stephanie Smith, age 39 (USA)
Comments from young people
Positive—Disney has definitely redeemed itself with “Maleficent”! Since I desire to not give away any spoilers, I’ll just rate this film as a MUST SEE.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Better than Average / Moviemaking quality: 5
Emshemie, age 16 (USA)
Positive—I have seen and heard many opinions about the Biblical and simply entertaining principles of this movie, some say that Maleficent represents the devil, and Stephan was God or Jesus. I have come to think that Maleficent is actually humanity as a whole, beginning specifically with Eve in the Garden of Eden. You will know the scene I am referring to if you’ve actually seen the movie, and in the same instance, Stephan would be Satan, tempting Eve with the apple.

As with a previous comment, I agree that Aurora acts as the Christ-like figure, teaching Maleficent the error of her evil tendencies. In the end, after Aurora awakens (which could also be a parallel for Christ dying on the cross) the message of redemption and forgiveness, no matter how far someone has fallen, is the strongest aspect of this movie. All magic aside (I mean, really, it’s a fictional world with fictional people and fictional rules), “Maleficent” is a wonderful example of how Christ saves us from the worst depths.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Good / Moviemaking quality: 4½
Madi, age 17 (USA)
Positive—It was a very good movie with an awesome moral. It showed you that true-love is not romance, but the love we have for one another. It made me think about how Christ wanted us to love one another. I think it is a great movie to take upper elementary children to. It was clean, although it did have some violence. I enjoyed it, and I would watch it again. I would not show this to anyone under 8 (depending on the child). Some parts can be a little scary. But, overall, I loved it.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Good / Moviemaking quality: 4
Lorrayya, age 14 (USA)
Positive—My entire family enjoyed this movie. My only complaint is that this film is very different than the Disney’s original “Sleeping Beauty.” But, otherwise, this movie is a great family movie, very funny and has a lot of action.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Better than Average / Moviemaking quality: 5
Josey, age 13 (USA)
Comments from non-viewers
Negative—This movie has a bad message. It takes evil and makes it look good. The child is taken from her father and mother by an evil fallen fairy. The child worships the fairy. Satan is a fallen angel who many worship. This movie is not unlike events the Bible tells us will happen. This movie will be seen by millions and will make it easier for many to except the Antichrist.
Concerned Christian, age 51 (USA)
Positive—“Concerned Christian”: your assessment of the film is wrong. The child is not taken from her parents by an evil, fallen fairy—she is given by her parents into the care of three fairies entrusted with protecting her until the day after her sixteenth birthday. She does not worship Maleficent; she befriends her and proves to be a transforming influence in her life. Aurora plays the role of a Christ-figure, and draws Maleficent back from darkness into the light, where she finds redemption in goodness and is made whole so that she can fulfill her original purpose of bringing peace and safety to the fairy lands.

In General: I haven’t loved a movie this much in a very long time. It’s profound. It’s moving. It’s visually gorgeous, and full of intense messages about love, loss, redemption, forgiveness, and spiritual transformation. It debunks the myth of true love at first glance, while supporting maternal love and the significance of motherhood. It is not the story of a good fairy’s fall from grace; it is the story of Maleficent becoming stronger through adversity so that she can rise above her evil tendencies and become the woman she was born to be.

This film asks its main character to take responsibility for and repent of her evil actions, not use her trauma as an excuse to become evil. Every lesson presented in this film is in some way tied to a fundamental aspect of our faith. If you boycott magic in all movies, by all means, don’t see it. But as a fantasy fan eager to look for symbolism and meaning, I found “Maleficent” to be magnificent.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Good / Moviemaking quality: 4½
Charity, age 31 (USA)
Negative—No, I have not viewed this movie—I simply wish to comment on the heart of the Disney Corporation. …it never ceases to amaze me that…followers of Jesus The Christ, would CHOOSE to give money (ticket purchase) to the Disney Corporation. Disney is a foundational building block of the anti-Christian/pro-sexual perversion/pro-abortion machine in America. And Believers keep going to their movies and to their parks and to their stores, thus giving funds to this institution that indoctrinates so many to those things that break the heart of Jesus. Lord help us all.
Wayne G, age 58 (USA)
Negative—It’s tragic, but yet expected, that even Christians will find “Maleficent” appealing and enjoyable. The witchcraft, sorcery, and darkness of the movie is easily detected. Jesus called us out of Babylon, and He’s still trying to speak to our hearts, warning us of such evil to stay far away from it. However, the excuse given by Christians is that they will view is purely as “entertainment”.

Are we really supposed to seek entertainment in this fallen world, or are we called to help save it? I know that despite anyone reading this comment, Christians will continue to do what they want because they want to. Keep John 10:27 to heart when facing decisions that can affect your walk with the Lord.
Andre Wallace, age 38 (USA)
Negative—Why would a Christian even think about watching this movie… Jehovah God’s command is clear at Deuteronomy 18:10-12 — “Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord; because of these same detestable practices the Lord your God will drive out those nations before you.” Stay away from the things of Satan… don’t be entertained by him.
Vee, age 38 (United Kingdom)
Negative—I have not seen the movie, but have seen the trailers. There is extensive MAGIC. Need a review go further?
Casey, age 48 (USA)
Negative—There is just too much witchcraft, spells and demonic magic to have a child watch—besides a woman with devil horns and all the greed hate and revenge and unforgiveness. But most of all this is all based on Gnosticism. Where Satanist and occultist believed the devil was misjudged by God and should not have been thrown out of heaven, and gets revenge on God by seducing and entrapping the innocent young Eve with the fruit or apple, if you will, Sleeping Beauty is based on it 100%. See all »
Dave, age 31 (USA)
Negative—It never ceases to amaze me how “Christians” continue to be worldly in all their entertainment. They will compromise God’s word for a few hours of “entertainment” and make any exuses and reasoning out of why it is okay and connect it heedlessly to examples of moral lessons of the Bible. Wake up! Jesus is coming, what if He came at the hour you were viewing this movie, would you not be ashamed?
Andi, age 33 (USA)
Negative—I appreciate the editor’s note on this film. The film portrays good as evil and evil as good, something we’re warned against in the Holy Bible. It is done in this movie in very confusing ways. Though I can appreciate certain things, like you can’t fall in love in one meeting and true love is one that sacrifices for you, that doesn’t mean that the way they failed to portray it between a man and a woman is good. They replaced that with a love between two women, not parental love, but more like a romantic sick one, at least it could easily be interpreted that way.

The dark magic elements only add to that interpretation and messages to children not to trust parents but dangerous strangers who have an evil feeling about them. The Bible teaches against witchcraft and the appearance of evil. We needed to improve on an old classic about good role models of romantic love at its best, not at its worst and totally annihilate the classic.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Extremely Offensive / Moviemaking quality: 3½
Stephanie Timmerman, age 49 (USA)
Negative—I’m not going to make a big deal about the magical elements in this movie. It’s a Fairytale; it comes with the territory. Visually, it looked good; the storyline was alright; the acting was reasonable—but the premise. Oh dear. Typical example of a traditional story retold with a Politically Correct, Liberal slant. Cos’, of course, those stories are so stuffy, old, offensive, irrelevant and wrong. So here (as in many other such stories) the traditional villain is really a victim of other people’s intolerance, wrongdoing or in this case—greed and ambition. Once someone shows “a little understanding”—they’re a lovely person really.

Yeah, okay in real life, first impressions are not correct, but true evil does exist, and as C.S. Lewis suggested, it needs to be portrayed honestly—and it cannot be combated by pretending those who perpetuate it are not responsible for their actions.

Of course, it also demolishes the traditional Prince/Princess dynamic. OK, so love at first sight is not real, but has anyone noticed how none of the major Male characters in the story is depicted positively? They are all greedy, selfish, power-hungry or warmongering Imperialists (who naturally have British accents), or vapid and rather useless.

Instead it’s the female/female love which saves the day. I don’t think it’s supposed to be homo-erotic, but seriously—what’s so wrong with a little Romance? OK, “you don’t need a man to be happy.” Fine—but the all “all men are bad news” line? Not really needed. No wonder men feel inadequate.… and the whole ending of expecting a parent to be quite happy about Maleficent leaving permanently with his child. The very child he sent away to protect from her avowed evil intentions.
My Ratings: Moral rating: Average / Moviemaking quality: 4½
English Lady, age 28 (United Kingdom)

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