Exploring the Accents in Sleeping Beauty and Maleficent
Why Does Maleficent Have a British Accento and Everyone Else Has an American Accent in Sleeping Beauty?
The choice of accents in Disney's 'Sleeping Beauty' and 'Maleficent' has generated much discussion. While some might argue that it adds a touch of class, the reality is often a bit more complicated. Let's delve into the reasons behind these choices and their implications.
The Historical Accuracy of Accents
The concept of a "British accent" used in 'Sleeping Beauty' and 'Maleficent' is somewhat misleading. It's important to understand that the term 'British accent' doesn't exist. Britain, or Great Britain, is a geographical term referring to an island made up of England, Scotland, and Wales. The term 'British accent' is often used colloquially to describe a particular style of spoken English that is associated with the United Kingdom, but it isn't a single, uniform accent.
The Accuracy of Accents in Theatre
Many American attempts at British accents leave much to be desired when it comes to authenticity, which can be a source of debate and amusement. These accents are often misinterpreted and can be perceived as less believable or convincing. However, the choice of accents in a theatrical production is often a matter of context and audience expectations.
In the case of 'Sleeping Beauty' and 'Maleficent', the characters' accents can be seen as a way to provide context and added nuance. 'Sleeping Beauty' was released in 1959, and the production was made for an American audience. As such, it's logical that the characters have American accents. 'Maleficent', on the other hand, takes place in a kingdom where the characters are expected to speak with a British flavor by American standards, particularly to add a sense of period authenticity.
The Setting and Production Choices
Maleficent is set in a kingdom, and historically, it is unlikely that this kingdom would have been strictly British. However, for the purposes of the story and the production context, a 'British' accent gives the setting a sense of historical and cultural gravitas. This is similar to how productions like 'Game of Thrones' use fanciful and exaggerated historical contexts to immerse the audience in a fictional world.
The American accents used in 'Maleficent' have been criticized for sounding wrong throughout the film. This can be attributed to the lack of authenticity in British accents, even when performed by American actors. It's a reminder that the authenticity of accents can significantly impact a film's immersion.
The Logic Behind Accent Choice
The primary reason for choosing a 'British' accent in 'Maleficent' rather than an American one is to give the period and setting more credibility. In many fantasy or historical contexts, a British accent helps establish a sense of timelessness and nobility. In contrast, the American accents used in the original 'Sleeping Beauty' serve the purpose of making the film more relatable to a primarily American audience.
Conclusion
The choice of accents in 'Sleeping Beauty' and 'Maleficent' is a product of both historical context and production considerations. While it might seem odd at first, these choices serve specific narrative and stylistic purposes. Understanding these choices can deepen our appreciation of the works and help us better engage with their fictional worlds.