One is always wary of any remake, but this Sleeping Beauty story really delivers. We see the story mainly from the perspective of the "villain", Maleficent, a fairy unaccustomed to the cruelty of man, but who quickly learns.

Angelina Jolie plays Maleficent, and she is sensational. One critic wrote that it was her best role since Girl Interrupted, and I would agree with that. Her presence and facial expressions are truly remarkable. The rest of the cast are rather drab compared to her, and while some people thought Sharlto Copley did a great job as King Stefan, I've always disliked him as an actor. Sleeping Beauty and the Prince are as stereotypical as you'd expect them to be.

The story is action packed, with some good magic and special effects and moments of excellent dialogue, but there are some twists in the tale that are both surprising and pleasant.

8 out of 10 large wings