Along with a press release announcing the beginning of production on the 2014 film, Disney also gave fans the first look at Angelina Jolie (Wanted) donning the iconic Maleficent headdress. The film will focus on the origin of this famous Disney baddie and explain what pushed her to the point of cursing the princess in an attempt to hurt her family and the kingdom.

The character is a Disney invention from their version of the Grimm Brothers original story where the thirteenth fairy curses the princess and then proceeds to never be heard from again. In their 1959 adaptation of the tale, Disney expanded the character to a level of determined resentment that certainly merits explanation considering that, as far as we know, all King Stephan did was not invite her to a party.

The film is set to release March 14, 2014 and stars a great list of talented actors, many playing characters that are still a mystery. In addition to Jolie, actors Miranda Richarson (The Hours), Sharlto Copley (District 9), Imelda Staunton (Harry Potter and the Order of the Pheonix), Elle Fanning (Super 8) and Sam Riley (On the Road) will take up roles under the direction of Robert Stromberg (Avatar, Alice in Wonderland). This will be Stromberg’s first time directing, having previously won two Oscars for his work as a production designer. Disney alum Linda Woolverton (The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast) will be writing the screenplay.

Click here for the full photo and Disney press release.

What are your speculations as to the real reason behind Maleficent’s anger?

Leave your answers in the comments!

For more fairytale movie discussion, check out Adaptation Episode #9.