Maleficent

DragonMaleficent

Maleficent Angelina Jolie

Disney Villains at Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party 2009

Maleficent is a fictional character appearing in Walt Disney's 16th animated feature film, Sleeping Beauty (1959). She is created by Marc Davis, one of Disney's leading animators, and voiced by Eleanor Audley, who also provided the voice for another iconic Disney villain, Lady Tremaine in Cinderella. Maleficent is based on the evil fairy godmother figure in Charles Perrault's fairy tale Sleeping Beauty, as well as the villainess who appears in the Brothers Grimm's retelling of the story, Little Briar Rose. She is characterized as the self-proclaimed "Mistress of All Evil" who, after not being invited to the christening of Princess Aurora, curses the princess to "prick her finger on the spindle of a spinning wheel and die" before the sun sets on her sixteenth birthday.

Character Overview

Maleficent is depicted as a powerful and malevolent fairy, capable of powerful dark magic. She takes the form of a tall, slender woman with green skin, horned headdress, and a black and purple cloak. Her abilities include telekinesis, casting spells, and transforming herself into a massive, fire-breathing dragon. She is accompanied by a group of minions, with her most loyal servant being a raven named Diablo.

Appearances

Sleeping Beauty (1959)

In Sleeping Beauty, Maleficent crashes the christening of Princess Aurora and, enraged at not being invited, curses the infant princess. Her curse is somewhat mitigated by the good fairy Merryweather, who alters it so that Aurora will fall into a deep sleep instead of dying, with the curse only able to be broken by true love's kiss.

Maleficent (2014)

In 2014, Maleficent was reimagined in the live-action film Maleficent, portrayed by Angelina Jolie. This film explores her backstory, depicting her as a benevolent fairy whose life becomes embittered after a betrayal, leading to her cursing Aurora. However, this version of Maleficent is more complex, showing her growing maternal feelings towards Aurora and ultimately seeking redemption.

Cultural Impact

Maleficent has become one of Disney's most iconic and enduring villains. Her image is synonymous with the archetype of the dark fairy tale witch. She has appeared in various Disney media, including television shows, video games, and theme park attractions. Her character has been analyzed in the context of feminist theory and has been seen as a symbol of female power and independence.

In Popular Culture

Maleficent's influence extends beyond the Disney films. She has appeared in various forms in other media, including literature, art, and fashion. The character has inspired numerous adaptations and reinterpretations, reflecting her status as a cultural icon.

See Also

• Disney Villains
• Fairy tale
• List of Disney animated universe characters