'Pirates 5' Director Joaquim Rønning to Helm 'Maleficent 2'

Joaquim Rønning will direct the upcoming Disney film "Maleficent 2," according to a report from Variety.

Rønning was one half of the team that directed "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales." While critically panned and the least successful of the "Pirates" franchise, the film did earn nearly $800 million worldwide. Rønning is also signed on to direct the announced sixth film in that series.

While the story for the sequel to "Maleficent" is not yet known, Angelina Jolie is set to reprise her title role. The first was a live action alternate telling of the tale of Sleeping Beauty. In that incarnation, the dark fairy Maleficent was given a sympathetic spin to explain her evil proclivities. Filmmakers have not yet revealed if Elle Fanning will return as the cursed princess.

"Maleficent" earned nearly $760 million worldwide and broke a number of box office records when it was released in 2014. It also received an Oscar nomination for costume design that year.

In addition to the next "Pirates" and "Maleficent" films, Rønning is also set to direct an adaptation of Michael Crichton's "Micro," and a high concept sci-fi film called "Origins."

Production on "Maleficent 2" is set to begin in early 2018, but Disney has not announced a release date.

Tell us: How do you feel about Joaquim Rønning directing "Maleficent 2?" Were you a fan of the first? Comment below and share your thoughts!

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