When the first trailers for Guy Ritchie’s 2019 adaptation of the 1992 Disney classic came out, people were divided, it was either they wanted Will Smith (who was playing Genie through the magic of CGI and some good old live action acting) to be blue or they didn’t want him to be blue. Of course he was going to be blue, what did you expect?
But after the initial hollabaloo about Will Smith being blue settled, the visuals of a longer trailer and the tease of the musical numbers got everyone excited (I mean, “A Whole New World” -come on!) it was just a matter of waiting for the film to hit theaters and when it did, I must say it does not disappoint.
Whether you are watching it with “nostalgia glasses” on or if you’re seeing it for the first time, its hard not to get caught up on this magic carpet ride.
Aladdin is a fun, colorful musicale spectacle which will bring you back to your childhood, if you grew up watching the 1992 classic while also bringing its own subtle changes that give it a fresh spin.
The amount of detail that went into the costumes and production design is truly impressive, you couldn’t help but just be in awe of the colorful and updated costumes the characters wear. Speaking of costumes, I think its important to note that the 2019 version also features more conservative costumes not only for Jasmine but even for Aladdin as well. In the original animated movie, Princess Jasmine wears a midriff ensemble, showing her belly button. In the live action version we see Naomi Scott, who plays Princess Jasmine covered up. Her famous turquoise outfit has more layers and most importantly covers her stomach. Which I think is a good decision in this updated version, hiding the tiny waists the past Disney Princesses were often seen with, to help spread body positive images for kids seeing the film, and you wouldn’t want to be distracted by a tiny waist in a movie as grand as “Aladdin.” Unlike “Beauty and the Beast” though which down played Belle’s yellow ball gown (yes, I was disappointed) the costume designers, go all out with Jasmine’s outfits (clap, clap) featuring ensembles truly deserving of a Princess, these costumes alone make it worth seeing on the big screen. If you would notice, Aladdin (Mena Massoud) gets a shirt now! The original Aladdin was only wearing a purple vest, basically making him topless. The addition of a shirt to his costume is much welcome.
Since we’re already in the subject of updates, the film also gets a few updates on their lyrics, in part to answer criticisms that the original songs, had offensive lyrics. In “Arabian Nights” the original 1992 lyrics sing:
-its barbaric but hey its home
The 2019 update change “barbaric” to “chaotic”
See? There was a lot of meaningful thought into this.
Aside from lyric changes, a new song for the film, which contribute to Jasmine’s struggle to be “more than just a beautiful princess” is featured.
The song, is entitled “Speechless” and has lyrics that echo Jasmine’s turmoil
taking your place, better seen & not heard
Well now that story is ending
I won’t be silenced, you can’t keep me quiet,
-won’t tremble when you try it
All I know is I won’t go speechless
This is a good direction to give these characters more layers (just like their costumes) and is a good example for young girls who will learn to look up to not only beautiful princesses, but badass ones, who fight for their people and challenge outdated traditions.
Will Smith brings his own unique flavor as the larger than life Genie. I was reminded that he does sing (and rap)! From the onset, he had huge shoes to fill, being that Robin Williams is truly a one of a kind entertainer but Smith is wise in his approach of the role, saying in earlier interviews that he was not going to mimic the late Williams’ style but rather give his own spin to the role, which works! I couldn’t feel but smile and laugh at Genie’s antics. I also appreciated giving more story for Genie. 🙂
My one complaint would be the “A Whole New World” sequence which might leave you wanting for more. The scene was dark and the CGI wasn’t as smooth or convincing (my advise it just to enjoy the song).
You should see the film in the biggest screen for the “Prince Ali” sequence, it really is over the top, you know, the good kind of over the top.
Very evident is director Guy Ritchie’s distinct visual style and flare and makes a good fit for the film’s grand spectacle.
Like the 1992 classic, the live action adaptation tackles being born into circumstances and rising above them, for Jasmine, its being a Princess, who should only be seen and not heard, whose purpose is only to be married off to a Prince. For Aladdin, it’s being born poor (a street rat) and who will probably die poor (“Your fleas will not mourn for you.”)
The two star crossed lovers, face these obstacles together and overcome them. And of course, there is the “what is inside” that counts morals, that behind the riches and extravagant titles, what really matters is what’s in your heart.
9/10 – make sure not to miss this magic carpet ride! Aladdin is now showing in cinemas!