Who Played 16 Year Old Maleficent?

Elle Fanning Shines in Maleficent: A Modern Twist on Sleeping Beauty | IMDb
The young actress in Maleficent is Elle Fanning, playing Aurora.
  • Last Updated: 01 Mar 2025
  • Fact Checked Our team recently fact checked this article for accuracy. However, things do change, so please do your own research.

Founder:

Bert Hofhuis
Key Takeaways
  • In "Maleficent," the young version of the character is played by actress Ella Purnell.
  • Purnell's performance captures Maleficent's innocence and eventual transformation.
  • The film explores the backstory of the iconic Disney villain.
  • It showcases Maleficent’s journey from a kind-hearted fairy to a vengeful sorceress.
  • The role highlights Purnell's talent and contributes to the film's emotional depth.

Elle Fanning's performance in "Maleficent" captivates audiences with her portrayal of Aurora, the beloved princess from the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty.

What You'll Learn in This Article:

    Fanning's talent shines as she brings a fresh and modern take to the character, enchanting viewers with her grace and charm.

    Elle Fanning as Aurora

    In the film, Fanning beautifully embodies a young Aurora, showcasing innocence and purity in her character portrayal.

    As the story unfolds, Aurora undergoes significant character development, and Fanning skillfully navigates this transformation with depth and emotion, adding layers to the role that resonate with audiences.

    Younger children are particularly drawn to Fanning's performance as Aurora, as she brings a relatable and endearing quality to the character.

    Her portrayal leaves a lasting impact on young viewers, inspiring imagination and instilling important values through her on-screen presence.

    Maleficent and Angelina Jolie

    Angelina Jolie's portrayal of Maleficent in the film is a standout performance that delves deep into the complexities of this iconic character.

    Jolie brings a mix of power, vulnerability, and depth to the role, making Maleficent a multidimensional and compelling character on screen. 

    Her portrayal captivates audiences, showcasing a range of emotions that humanize Maleficent in a unique way.

    Exploring Angelina Jolie's Performance as Maleficent

    Angelina Jolie's portrayal of Maleficent goes beyond the surface of a traditional villain. She brings a sense of humanity and depth to the character, allowing viewers to empathize with her struggles and motivations.

    Jolie's performance captures the essence of Maleficent's complexity, making her a dynamic and unforgettable character in the modern adaptation of Sleeping Beauty.

    Comparison Between Original and Modern Maleficent

    The modern portrayal of Maleficent by Angelina Jolie offers a fresh perspective on the character compared to the original animated film. Jolie's interpretation adds layers of nuance and emotion, giving Maleficent a more profound backstory and motivations that differ from the traditional depiction. This comparison highlights the evolution of Maleficent as a character in the modern retelling.

    The Transformation of Maleficent's Character

    One of the most intriguing aspects of Maleficent is the transformation of her character throughout the film.

    Angelina Jolie navigates this evolution with skill, portraying Maleficent's journey from a misunderstood figure to a more complex and nuanced anti-hero. 

    The gradual changes in Maleficent's character add depth and richness to the story, allowing audiences to witness her growth and development.

    Modern Adaptation of Sleeping Beauty

    The modern adaptation of Sleeping Beauty, as seen in "Maleficent," incorporates contemporary themes that resonate with audiences today.

    The film explores concepts of redemption, forgiveness, and the complexities of human nature, offering a fresh perspective on the classic fairy tale. 

    This modern twist breathes new life into the story, engaging viewers with its updated themes and character dynamics.

    Incorporating Contemporary Themes in the Story

    "Maleficent" reimagines the narrative of Sleeping Beauty by incorporating contemporary themes such as empowerment, redemption, and the strength of female characters.

    The film challenges traditional fairy tale tropes by exploring complex relationships and themes of forgiveness and self-discovery. 

    This modern adaptation offers a more nuanced and thought-provoking take on the classic story, resonating with audiences of all ages.

    Differences Between the Original Fairy Tale and the Film

    The differences between the original fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty and the modern film adaptation of "Maleficent" are evident in the portrayal of characters and the development of the storyline.

    The film diverges from the traditional narrative by offering a new perspective on familiar characters, delving deeper into their motivations and relationships.

    These differences add complexity and richness to the story, creating a captivating viewing experience for audiences.

    Reception of Maleficent Among Fans of Sleeping Beauty

    Among fans of the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty, "Maleficent" has garnered mixed reactions due to its reinterpretation of the beloved story.

    While some appreciate the fresh take on the narrative and character development, others express nostalgia for the original animated film. 

    The reception of "Maleficent" among fans highlights the enduring appeal of the Sleeping Beauty story and the evolution of fairy tale adaptations in modern cinema.

    Impact of Maleficent on Popular Culture

    Robert Stromberg's 2014 Maleficent movie, starring Angelina Jolie and Dakota Fanning, had a significant impact on popular culture. The franchise's success led to a sequel and a lasting impression on viewers, with Vivienne Jolie playing Princess Aurora.

    Maleficent's Influence on Fairy Tale Retellings

    Maleficent's portrayal by Angelina Jolie has had a significant impact on the way fairy tales are retold in modern cinema. 

    The reinterpretation of Maleficent as a more complex and nuanced character has inspired storytellers to explore the depths of well-known tales, adding layers of emotion and humanizing traditional villains.

    Critical Acclaim for Elle Fanning's Performance

    Elle Fanning's performance as Princess Aurora in "Maleficent" has received critical acclaim for her portrayal of innocence and growth. Fanning's ability to capture the essence of a young princess undergoing transformation showcases her talent and adds a compelling element to the modern twist on Sleeping Beauty.

    External Links for Further Exploration

    or more information and in-depth analysis of the movie "Maleficent" and the performances of Elle Fanning and Angelina Jolie, you can explore IMDb's page dedicated to the film. The IMDb website offers a wealth of information, including cast details, reviews, and trivia related to the movie.

    Common Questions

    Who Was The Young Maleficent Actress?

    Who Portrayed Teen Maleficent In the Movie?

    Who Played Maleficent As A Teenager?

    Who Acted As 16-Year-Old Maleficent?

    Which Actress Played Young Maleficent?

    Conclusion

    Stefan played the 16-year-old version of Maleficent in the film Maleficent II, directed by Robert Stromberg. The role was originally played by Elle Fanning in the first film. The younger version of the Mistress of Evil was portrayed with great skill and depth by the young actor.

    The film was released on December 9 and received positive reviews from critics. According to Deadline Hollywood, Linda Woolverton wrote the screenplay for the reimagining of Sleeping Beauty. The cast also included Sharlto Copley and Sofia Fanning.

    Related Articles