He may play a raven in Disney’s new movie “Maleficent” next to the stunning Angelina Jolie, but Sam Riley is hands down a cool cat. I sit down with the British actor who makes the jump from indie film star to Disney character in his portrayal of Diaval, a raven who becomes Maleficent’s trustful companion.

Pili Montilla for Entertainment Affair: Angelina looks like an intimidating woman as is, but her make up and costume in this film makes her look even more intimidating and scary. How was it working with her?
Sam Riley: I was very nervous and excited to meet her. She has a very disarming way…she’s very charming. The very first time we talked we had a very surreal conversation about the fact that both Brad (Pitt) and I both had films in Cannes that year and what my wife was going to wear and what she was going to wear. It was weird! I mean we’re talking about each others partners and all I keep thinking is: “Yeah! But she’s talking about Brad Pitt!” But she was so excited about my character that she got me even more excited to play Diaval.

EA: As the audience, we see the complete, final product. However, a lot of the magic of the set was done in post-production. How did you as an actor imagine this fantasy world?

SR: Rob (director Robert Stromberg) had the drawings of what the set was going to look like. And he really took the time to explain it to us. A lot of it was built too, which helped a lot. But I spent a lot of time doing that with my brother when I was younger, you know. As a young boy letting go your imagination and pretending.

EA: What was the biggest challenge in going from indie films to a big Disney production?
SR: The challenges were more practical really. I spent three hours in make up. It’s a long process to get ready and then pacing yourself and preserving concentration. That’s the challenge because in indie films they have such little time and money. It’s faster. You’re always acting. Here there’s more preparation then actual acting. Yet, how exciting that now when I see the Disney logo I think: Wow! I will always be part that…forever!

Check out the performance of this talented and down to earth actor on Disney’s “Maleficent” out on May 30th.