Right now, Disney is on a roll with a ton of live-action versions of their animated classics. Aladdin is one of my all-time favorites and I was very wary of this one being messed with, in all truth, I personally feel that this trend is a waste of time. Why can't they just focus on new work? Well, nostalgia is a very big trend right now, so it makes sense from a marketing sense for Disney to capitalize on that trend.
This version ended up, for me, being a delightful and heartwarming experience! It was a bit darker, and delve a little deeper into the emotional journey of each character. That was a wonderful and touching experience for me, and I ended up appreciating this effort by director, Guy Ritchie, and screenwriters: John August and Guy Ritchie.
I first want to discuss the characters. Mena Massoud as Aladdin. Mr. Massoud delivered an incredibly moving performance as our title character. This is where I can see doing a live-action version has its benefits. We get a living, breathing character and in the case of Mr. Massound's performance, we get a well-rounded character and we are allowed into his heart, his dreams, and aspirations, as well as his back story, helping us to see what makes Aladdin tick. I was rooting from the very beginning for Aladdin to win! Next, Naomi Scott as Princess Jasmine. I will just repeat my same sentiments for Miss Scott's performance as I did with Mr. Massoud's performance. Miss Scott delivered a powerful and truly independent performance as Princess Jasmine. I personally feel, her performance is a wonderful role model for young girls and women. Her performance alone made the entire film for me! Next, the wonderful, Will Smith as the Genie. I know that Mr. Smith had the toughest job of all since this version of the story and this character is so associated with the late Robin Williams. Mr. Smith makes this character his very own beautifully.
Indeed, Mr. Smith was so wonderful in this role. He did make it his own while at the same time, paid tribute to Robin Williams. I thoroughly enjoyed Mr. Smith's performance. The added twist of having him fall in love with Princess Jasmine's handmaiden was hilarious and so much fun! Mr. Smith's performance makes this film as well! He didn't try to be Robin Williams. He brought himself to the role and it worked beautifully!
The rest of the ensemble was wonderful and the design aspects along with the beautiful cinematography and the score by Alan Menken, Disney did an outstanding job with this one! Thank you Disney!
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