The 1992 Disney Classic is making its live action debut at the box office as it brings in over 85 million domestically, taking the top spot opening weekend.
Under the direction of Guy Richie, who directed the Sherlock Holmes film, Aladdin has a hint of nostalgia with iconic lines from the original as Richie brings a bit of Bollywood, paying homage to the middle eastern culture. The casting as well stays with that concept as newcomer Mena Massoud makes “One Jump Ahead” from the TV world to the movies in one of his first Hollywood blockbuster. Stepping into the iconic role, set forth by voice actor Scott Weinger who voiced the original Aladdin, Massoud instantly adds his own hyper active sense to the role as we see him leaping from building to building as he cleverly escapes the palace guards in the market place to the most iconic scene with Princess Jasmine (Naomi Scott) in “A Whole New World”.
In addition, music played a key to this adaptation as the original had voices that couldn’t be beat. That being said, the new voices to the iconic songs faired exceptionally well, even that of Will Smith, who stepped into the role of the iconic Genie (voiced previously by late Robin Williams). Although, no one can beat Williams cleaver voices and comedic timing, one thing can be said about Smith as the Genie, he did add his own uniqueness and charm.
There was also a difference from the original in the fact that this live adaptation actually allowed the genie to come alive in new and interesting ways. That includes the introduction to Will Smith in the beginning on the boat, though one might wonder is that the genie or is he playing two different parts. That is made to intrigue the audience and make them wonder how the storytelling aspect will play out in the end.
Finally, a new character emerges and that is the handmaiden, whom we also see early on, though one doesn’t realize just how important her part is until the time is right. Played by SNL star, Nasim Pedrad, she brings a bit of comedic timing know to the SNL scene, to that of her interactions with her fellow cast members. Her facial expressions make for great memorable moments that the audience will remember long after the credits role. Additionally, the surprise at the end will have audiences raveling in the moment and reliving their childhood for a new generation to experience.
Disney’s Aladdin came out in theaters May 24, 2019 and is currently playing in a theater near you.