After Disney continuously revives classic animated films into live-action versions, Aladdin (2019) is one of the most anticipated projects, especially with Will Smith taking on the role of the Genie, once famously voiced by Robin Williams. Our editorial team has watched the film and invites you to open the magic lamp together.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
Aladdin (Mena Massoud) is a street urchin in the city of Agrabah, surviving by stealing but possessing a kind heart. One day, he meets Princess Jasmine (Naomi Scott) in the market, and they are mutually impressed. Later, Jafar (Marwan Kenzari), the evil grand vizier, tricks Aladdin into entering the Cave of Wonders to retrieve a magic lamp, but the plan backfires when Aladdin discovers the Genie (Will Smith) inside the lamp and is granted three wishes. Aladdin uses this opportunity to transform into Prince Ali to get close to Jasmine and vie for the throne from Jafar. The film unfolds with adventure, beautiful songs, and romance, without spoiling the ending.
Acting and Characters
One of the film's strongest points is the performance of Will Smith as the Genie. He does not imitate Robin Williams but creates his own identity with humor, liveliness, and charm. His rapping and dancing add great color to the film. Mena Massoud as Aladdin also does well, conveying the character's innocence and bravery convincingly. Meanwhile, Naomi Scott portrays Princess Jasmine as strong and modern; her solo song 'Speechless' is powerful and effectively conveys the fight for women's rights. As for Marwan Kenzari as Jafar, while not as menacing as the animated version, he still appears cunning and threatening enough.
Direction, Visuals, and Music
Guy Ritchie, the renowned director known for his fast-paced storytelling and creative camera techniques, brings Aladdin to life. The musical score by Alan Menken (original composer) remains excellent, especially 'A Whole New World,' which is rearranged to be as beautiful as the original. The CGI visuals are stunning, particularly the design of Agrabah, which is colorful and grand. The rooftop chase and flying carpet sequences are smooth. However, some action scenes may be too fast to follow, and the Genie's CGI in certain angles still looks somewhat unrealistic.
Editorial Analysis
The editorial team views Aladdin 2019 as a decent remake, especially in adding depth to the female character Jasmine, who becomes more than just a princess in the hero's arms. She has her own aspirations and dreams, aligning with current social trends. However, the film sticks too closely to the original plot, making the middle part feel dragged out and lacking surprises. But Will Smith saves the situation with his standout performance. Overall, Aladdin 2019 is a warm and entertaining family film, though it cannot match the original, it has its own charm.
Verdict
Aladdin 2019 is a decent remake, suitable for Disney fans who want to see a live-action version and families looking for a fun movie to watch with their children. Though not perfect, it has charm and full entertainment, worth watching at least once.
Screenshots
👍 Pros
- +Will Smith's standout and unique performance
- +Beautiful soundtrack, especially 'Speechless' and 'A Whole New World'
- +Adds depth to Jasmine's character, making her stronger and more modern
- +Spectacular visuals and production, vibrant colors
👎 Cons
- −Genie's CGI in some scenes still looks unrealistic
- −Plot is somewhat dragged out and lacks surprises
- −Villain Jafar is not as menacing as the animated version
Top Cast
FAQ
It adds a new song 'Speechless' for Jasmine and adjusts the story to give Jasmine a bigger role, including adding the character Dalia, Jasmine's handmaiden.
Yes, Will Smith sings and raps himself in the songs 'Friend Like Me' and 'Prince Ali'.
Suitable for children aged 7 and up. The film has no scary or violent scenes, only fun and beautiful songs.
No post-credits scene, but during the credits there are still images and background music.
