It's pure magic

Rating: 8/10 (26 May 2019)

Aladdin - if it's a Disney movie, there must be magic and Aladdin is no exception. Comparisons with the animation film are perhaps inevitable, but I would advise you to leave that baggage behind when you immerse yourself into this superlative experience. Replete with colour, VFX, high octane action and mounted on a lavish scale, this larger than life reproduction of the Arabian Nights tale directed by Guy Ritchie contain slight departure from the original story. But that only ensures that the narrative remains taut, crisp and concise.
The production values and glossy output are a treat to the eyes, albeit it's an all-American venture. Please don't try to look for the aesthetics or originality of the Arab culture as you are then likely to be disappointed. Aladdin is a pure commercial entertainer and let's take that at its face value instead of getting lost in the cultural or artistic debate.
The sets are jaw dropping. Shot largely in Wadi Rum (Jordan), the desert looks majestic. The palace, bazaars, local people complement the build of the story, which gets going from the very beginning and there's never a dull moment. Will Smith as the Genie is absolutely cracking - high energy, infectious in charm and his usual comic timing are all packaged into this tailor made role for him. Mena Massoud in the titular role is impressive too. I only thought that newbie Naomi Scott playing Princess Jasmine was far too Western for the role and has made no effort to adopt the Arabic accent or traits. Nevertheless, her chemistry with Mena Massoud is fantastic, offering a wave of freshness to the screen. Aladdin will be endearing to viewers of all ages, please don't write it off as a children's film. Go for it!