As a huge Disney fan, I was very nervous when the news broke out that there would be a live-action remake of the much beloved and one of the stronger Disney movies, Aladdin. Directed by Guy Ritchie (Sherlock Holmes) this movie follows the story of Aladdin, a street rat who bumps into princess royalty in the streets of Agrabar only to be picked up by the villainous Vizier (Marwin Kenzari) who both vie for the magical lamp that houses power that could make both of their dreams come true.
It is important to understand that this remake of this movie is only like the original because it follows the plot. Unlike its predecessor, this movie creates a completely different message and tends to gravitate towards protecting women.
Princess Jasmine, played by Naomi Scott (Power Rangers and The 33) put on a very solid performance with a very strong personality but unfortunately did not put to task, who the real Princess Jasmine really is. Aladdin, our main protagonist of the movie, played by Mena Massoud, Egyptian born (Jack Ryan and Saving Hope) gave the audience a glimpse back to the original, he is Aladdin now. Will Smith as the Genie was very fresh, very different and actually brought a new brand of humor to the movie, albeit slightly strange but that wasn’t the worst part, not by a long shot.
Who thought of making Jafar young and handsome? Navid Neghaban (Legion) changed the movie. His presence was not as commanding as it was in the original and gave less of a threatening feel. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed his performance but it just needed a little more of the original Jafar to feel like it was him.
It should be said that this movie really did take flight and has soared into many people’s hearts and I would recommend finding a friend in it.
