Maleficent (2014): A Feminist and Posthumanist Twist to Disney’s Sleeping Beauty (1959)

Abstract

[eng] This paper examines the retelling of the worldwide known Disney fairy tale film Sleeping Beauty. However, in this case, the story is narrated through Maleficent, previously classified as antagonist in both the classic fairy tale and its homonymous film adaptation. Specifically, this dissertation focuses on the symbolic journey that starts in the duality of the two kingdoms until the unification of these realms. This is a journey that challenges the traditional conventions of the genre, and simultaneously the hegemonic patriarchal and androcentric visions of the world. This critical analysis will be articulated through a feminist and posthumanist methodology. Moreover, this thesis aims to explain the fluidity and plurality of identities displayed by a posthuman Maleficent, who manages to establish an especial bond with Aurora based on true love, respect and trust. Indeed, it is this feminist connection between these women, as argued in this paper, which eventually brings the happy ending to the story and unifies The Moors and the human kingdom. This research thereby reveals a reversal of the prototypical Disney’s cinematographic characters, empowering women and defying the protagonist-antagonist dichotomy. Then, space binarism is erased and a harmonious balance is shaped between the two species.