Lacks Magic

Rating: 4/10 (25 May 2019)

Guy Ritchie directed this movie and it shows -- there's an absolute lack of wonderment, flamboyance and grandeur. Ironically, his signature grittiness and fast-paced action is severely toned down. I don't know what executive told him to re-imagine this as a made-for-TV family film (the set pieces are pedestrian). Outside of the inconsistent CGI, most of the acting is mediocre (Aladdin, the Sultan) or misguided (I feel bad for the actor playing Jafar -- it's not his fault). And then there's Will Smith, who is ONLY at his best when he's NOT singing.
As for the songs, Friend Like Me and Speechless were the only two enjoyable ones. A Whole New World was just drained of all its romance and charm, and even lighting (it was sooo gloomy!)
Jasmine is the only saving grace of the film in terms of acting and commitment. Oh, and the dancing is great.
Truly a misfire and the worst of all of Disney's recent live-action remakes. CRINGE!