Not enough credit given...

Rating: 9/10 (8 June 2019)

Saw the movie yesterday after having a rave review from my cousin. I wasn't expecting too much, as it only rated average on IMDb so assumed it would just be a watered down version of the animated version...I couldn't have been more wrong.
The film stays lovingly true to the original film for all those adult Disney fans who want the nostalgia of their own childhoods, but with a modern twist making it relatable and current for the younger generations. It's always a risk to put a modern twist on any classic, but it really does work perfectly in this film. They use modern choreography to spice up the dance routines, which livened up an already lively performance. The costumes gave a nod to the original film, but with added style and flare that you'd expect from a modern day performance. The character of Aladdin was kept lovingly close to the original, however Jasmine was tweaked slightly so that there was a feminist element to her. She seeks to rule herself, rather than to marry a worthy future sultan, sending a message of power and strength for any girls who are told that they can't do something. It's a refreshing and necessary twist on the original story for the old and new generations.
I think everyone fell in love with Robin Williams's genie, and his memory lives on in the original film. And prior to seeing the film, I was convinced that he would be a missing element in this new film. However Will Smith didn't try to imitate Williams, he brought a fresh interpretation to the character which was refreshing and actually perfectly fitting for this adaptation. Robin Williams's genie, as genius as it was, would actually be out of place in this more modern production. Will Smith is the perfect candidate and now I can't imagine this genie being played by anyone else.
Aladdin and Jasmine were for me, perfectly cast. Aladdin was portrayed as the loveable rogue and I actually preferred the interpretation of Princess Jasmine in this film than the original. The role of Jafar was played well, however there was a creepiness to Jafar in the original that was very much missing in this film. Jafar was a sneak and a bit of a creep, whereas this Jafar was much more aggressive and assertive. I think by strengthening the character, they actually weakened him, as the creepiness, slyness and weakness was what repulsed the audience against the character in the original, and I feel that this would have been a much better villain than the one they created.
Overall, I came away feeling so happy, nostalgic and fulfilled. A rare feat for any film, and should be the aim of any Disney film worth it's metal. I would actually go so far as to say that I enjoyed this film more than the original! And I don't say that lightly. I am just a little lost as to the average reviews that this film has received considering the end product. Don't let these reviews stop you from seeing this film, it's a triumph in my opinion and I can't wait to see it again.