The Genie by Robin Williams

Rating: 8/10 (29 October 2018)

Aladdin, a small thief from Agrabah, happens to stumble upon a charming young woman in the marketplace with whom he seems to fall deeply in love. Fooled by an old man, Aladdin gets his hands on a magical lamp which contains a magical genie who can grant any three wishes to his master. Thus, he will have to use all the help he can get to win his beloved's heart, especially from his new blue friend.
This classic Disney movie presents the life of a young man who struggles with poverty but is determined to do whatever it takes to improve his situation and ultimately be with the one he loves, although she seems out of his league. It's a magical story which presents the main protagonist's struggle, his way of making hard decisions and his fight with a new enemy gained along the way. It's ok for the most part, but unfortunately, it isn't spectacular either. It is rather predictable and although it has one or two twists up its sleeve, it isn't able to maintain a high standard throughout. It even tends to be superficial in some aspects, especially regarding solving the main problems, but as it is targeted towards kids, I guess it's ok as it is.
Its characters are quite stereotypical (the good guy, the evil one, the princess and so on) but manage to provide a good time, especially through the genie which as far as I'm concerned, represents the core of the movie. He's the one which brings colour into the picture, who makes you laugh out loud many times and puts a smile on your face with every apparition. Robin Williams has done a truly impressive job voice acting this character, making it one of a kind. I should also mention Abu, Aladdin's trusty monkey which is always there when he needs assistance. It's also very charismatic and even cute, sending plenty of emotion towards the viewer.
In terms of entertainment, the movie has plenty to offer. You get many action sequences in which Aladdin proves his abilities, you get a lot of musical moments which are always welcome and you even get plenty of jokes, especially with the genie around. The visual part is also a big plus, looking very good even today, judging by the fact that it has over twenty years and counting.
To sum things up, it's a classic story which almost every kid knows, which brings plenty of good time with everything it does, even after seeing it multiple times, but if you ask me, it could have done a bit more in terms of story. Nevertheless, it's a very good animation which made a great impact when it first came so its merits will always be appreciated.