[REVIEW] ‘Maleficent 2’: A Spellbinding Badass Sequel That’ll Leave You Gasping

Fans of ‘Maleficent’, the five-year wait (that feels like forever) is finally over.

The queen of darkness, Angelina Jolie a.k.a Maleficent has returned to the silver screens to remind everyone who’s the badass queen of darkness with her cheekbones sharper than ever.

The sequel opens a new chapter in Maleficent’s life when her goddaughter Aurora breaks the news that she’s tying the knot with her prince charming, Prince Phillip.

So, will Aurora eventually make it to the altar and live happily ever after despite the objection and obstacles that await her?

Here’s our take on ‘Maleficent: Mistress of Evil’ and why you should watch it.

#1 Maleficent Has Found Her Match

In the trailer, we meet a few new key characters and one of them is Prince Phillip’s mother, Queen Ingrith, played by Michelle Pfeiffer. After provoking Maleficent with her proclamation as Aurora’s new mother, all hell breaks loose.

Queen Ingrith may seem like the ideal, loving, motherly figure but don't let her demeanour fool you as she definitely has something cooking up her sleeves. If there’s anyone that dares to take on Maleficent, it’s her. For the first time ever, Maleficent meets her match.

As the old saying goes, “never wake the sleeping tiger”. Maleficent's inner beast who’s thirsty for revenge is now awaken thanks to the queen. Pfeiffer’s portrayal as the up-to-no-good queen scores brownie points from us as her energy is somewhat terrifying and bi**hy to the point that you’ll feel like slapping her face at times. But you've got to give it to her, she's very cunning.

To sum up, both of them may be two completely different people with different idealogies but the dark forces in them may somewhat be on the same page.

#2 Darker And Sinister Themes

Think the first installment was dark? Well, 'Maleficent 2' will then leave you panting and desperately searching for a flicker of light. The sequel's storyline illustrates some maturity within the universe with heavier and darker themes of betrayal, revenge, and acts of selfishness.

Aurora and Prince Phillip may have a beautiful wedding in mind but what's coming to them is far from anything whimsical. We love how Disney isn't afraid to delve into the darker side in this film and how elements and cinematography in the movie complements the whole mood.

You'll be shocked to find out who betrayed who and how one's lust for power can bring two worlds into chaos. Let's just say Elsa doesn't deserve the title ice queen, because another person fits the title better.

Viewers will also get to explore Maleficent's backstory and family history (yes, her kind exists; a whole village, in fact!), something everyone needs to learn in order to understand who she is today. And if you're worried about not having enough magic in the film, don't worry because Maleficent will put up a show which will leave you stunned.

#3 Outstanding Costumes

If there's one thing we can't find wrong, it's everyone's outfit and costumes - which are on fleek as the millenials say. Outfit after outfit impresses us, it feels like we're watching an alternate version of 'The Devil Wears Prada'.

Princess Aurora's dresses are what every fairytale-loving, flora fans dream of, Maleficent's myriad of black outfit changes match the darkness of our soul - in style, of course and even Queen Ingrith's dresses, jewellery, and her over-the-top hair accessories seem to complement her well and seal her appearance as a strong queen.

Even Maleficent's makeup is so on point that the shade of crimson red on her lips makes us want to empty the drugstore shelves. Angelina Jolie looks ethereal and badass throughout the whole film so, kudos to makeup and costume department!

#4 A Plot Twist That’ll Leave You Gasping

As two strong, hot-headed women are on the verge of an ultimate face-off, everyone is left on the edge of their seats, waiting nervously for their next move. It seems like chances for hope and peace between the two kingdoms have slimmed down and its people (and magical beings) are fearing over their fate.

But along the battle for power, something unexpected happens, a plot twist that leave you gasping in shock. We totally did not see it coming, but if you watch and listen closely throughout the movie, you'll understand how and why. Nothing will prepare you for this twist and the level of surprise does not come even close to learning that more than one Maleficent actually exists.

VERDICT

Although 'Maleficent: Mistress of Evil' has gone into a darker route, it's still a family-friendly flick which has an important message: always listen to your mother. Aurora must be thankful that Maleficent isn't an Asian mom or else all hell will break loose on her instead.

Jolie's portrayal of Maleficent is top notch and she'll constantly remind you who's the badass boss but Pfeiffer also deserves some praises as she takes a power-hungry queen to the next level. She'll make you hate her without even trying.

The sequel has definitely leveled up even in terms of its whimiscal costumes and plethora of unique magical being residing in the Moors. It's truly a spellbinding quest for true love, trust, and power. Not your typical happily-ever-after fairytale.

'Maleficent 2' is in cinemas nationwide starting 17 October 2019.