Fun, Dazzling and a True Wonder!

Rating: 8/10 (9 July 2019)

I'll admit, I went into this with a little apprehension. The Original Animated Version is one of the standout pieces of the Disney Renaissance, mostly because of the standout performances, the scenery, and the songs. I went in wondering how faithful the filmmakers would be to the original animated film.
Within the first 5 minutes, my worries were put to rest immediately. I was in awe of the Scenery, the music, and the colorful costumes and characters! The music is a return to the classic songs from the original animated film, but each song also is composed a bit differently, and sounds slightly different than the versions from the animated film, which is also a good thing!
Will Smith thankfully does an impressive job as The Genie, the role made famous by Robin Williams. However, Will Smith doesn't try to be as funny or quick witted as Robin Williams was in the role, but he shines in his own unique way, bringing some of the same rapid fire jokes, but ultimately playing The Genie in a loving homage to Robin Williams' portrayal of the character! The other two standout performances in the movie for me were Naomi Scott as Jasmine, and Marwan Kenzari as Jafar. The filmmakers really took steps to really flesh out those two characters this time around, with Princess Jasmine feeling trapped but ultimately wanting to stand up for the common people of Agrabah, and Jafar wanting to turn his seductive powers to conquer other Kingdoms.
This film also mentions other Kingdoms, and how Agrabah and the surrounding Kingdoms are almost ready to attack each other in a war-like standoff. Which explains why the Sultan wants to have Jasmine marry a Prince from a different kingdom: for the promise of Peace between Kingdoms.
What makes this film special is that although parts of it may be familiar, and is a retelling of the Animated film, there is an expanded story and there are parts of this movie that aren't in the animated film, and like the Cave in the movie, a true Wonder to behold! Disney has truly done it again!