Maleficent was kind of the big kick off of Disney’s ‘live-action remake’ craze. Sure it’s not a shot-for-shot remake of Sleeping Beauty, but it is a story told in the same world telling the origin story of Maleficent herself. Depending on who you are you may find that interesting. For us, we thought it was disappointing.

You’ll have to listen to the episode to get all the deets, but suffice it to say we really weren’t feeling a lot of the writing and storytelling decisions. The saving grace were the performances of Angelina Jolie and Elle Fanning. Angie’s mere presence is enough to lift even the worst movies up, and in this mediocre film it definitely helps. And Elle’s brightness and charm serve as a kind of gloss over what is otherwise a movie that is much blander than it should have been.

However, Maleficent Mistress of Evil is totally a blast. Maybe it’s because we went in prepared to be completely underwhelmed (as you’ll hear), but this movie was so much more fun than its predecessor. It’s bigger and bolder and more of its own story than the OG. But the real kicker is Michelle Pfeiffer. She and Angelina come into scenes, eat all the scenery, and come back for seconds. It is a JOY to watch.

That said, we know it’s not going to be for everyone. We really did super enjoy it though and if you’re at all interested in it you should see it. You (probably) won’t be disappointed. So grab an apple that’s def not poison and get cozy in bed for today’s episode of So…I’m Watching This Show!

MALEFICENT SHOWNOTES!