In her most powerful return yet, Angelina Jolie once again dons the iconic horns in Maleficent 3: The Black Fairy, the third and reportedly final chapter of Disney’s dark fantasy saga. Directed by Chloé Zhao, this entry balances somber myth, moral conflict, and visual splendor to deliver a mature, emotionally complex tale that deepens the legacy of the horned fae.
Set a decade after the events of Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, peace between the human kingdoms and the magical Moors is slowly unraveling. Queen Aurora (Elle Fanning), now a wise and empathetic ruler, senses an invisible force shifting the balance of nature. When magic itself begins to unravel—rivers reversing, trees dying, and fae losing their power—Maleficent must face an ancient entity even older than herself: the Black Fairy.
Portrayed with chilling grace by Eva Green, the Black Fairy is a figure from forgotten lore, banished centuries ago for crimes against both humans and fae. Unlike Maleficent, whose darkness was born of betrayal, the Black Fairy is fueled by pure vengeance and sorrow. Her return is tied to a curse written in the original Fae tongue, one that threatens to consume the realms in eternal twilight.
What makes this film stand out is its thematic maturity. Rather than a simple good-versus-evil narrative, The Black Fairy explores grief, generational trauma, and the burden of legacy. Maleficent, once feared and misunderstood, now finds herself as the last hope for both realms. Her evolution from vengeful sorceress to reluctant protector comes full circle here, as she is forced to confront her origins and the very roots of dark magic.
The relationship between Aurora and Maleficent remains the beating heart of the film. Their trust, tested once more, reveals a deep maternal bond forged not by blood, but by sacrifice and loyalty. Fanning continues to shine with poise, and Jolie commands every scene with quiet strength and sorrowful dignity.
Visually, the film is stunning. Zhao brings her signature ethereal atmosphere—blending natural light, sweeping landscapes, and gothic fantasy. The Moors appear both haunting and sacred, while the Black Fairy’s realm is a misty void of shadows and flame. The final confrontation between Maleficent and the Black Fairy is not just a magical duel, but a philosophical clash between healing and destruction.
The ending, without spoilers, offers resolution with an emotional weight that honors the trilogy’s arc. Whether this is truly the end for Maleficent is uncertain, but if it is, she leaves as one of Disney’s most nuanced and compelling icons.
