A TALENTED young theatre student has spoken of her excitement at starring alongside Hollywood star Angelina Jolie in the new Disney film Maleficent, released today (May 30).

Isobelle Molloy, 13, from Springfield, was handpicked by Jolie for the role of the young Maleficent, portraying Jolie’s character in her younger days.

Theatre-goers and soap fans may recognise Isobelle already. She recently played the role of Bella Young in EastEnders, and has previously played the lead role in Matilda in the West End.

Isobelle had the privilege of travelling to Hollywood for the film, which tells the story of the Disney classic Sleeping Beauty from the point of view of its villain.

Isobelle said: “To be in a film with Angelina Jolie was absolutely incredible and a little bit surreal at the same time.

“I felt very privileged to be given such an amazing opportunity.

I was shell shocked when I found out I had been given the role, but also couldn’t wait to get started.”

Isobelle said being on set with a cast including Elle Fanning and Miranda Richardson was an amazing experience.

She added: “I only met Angelina briefly. She was fantastic and very helpful with tips on how she saw the young Maleficent.”

Isobelle trains at Chelmsford theatre school Tomorrow’s Talent.

Principal Gavin Wilkinson said the young acting star had her feet firmly on the ground.

He said: “We are so proud of Isobelle and her achievements in such a competitive industry.

“She remains a very levelheaded young lady who simply strives to be the best that she can be as an actress.

“Isobelle is testament to the wealth of talented young people that we have in the local area with many of our students performing leading roles both on stage and screen.”

For more information on Tomorrow’s Talent, go to tomorrowstalent.co.uk