Deeply surprising in how enjoyable it is.

Rating: 10/10 (4 June 2019)

Disney live action remakes of classic animation are often re-worked to respond to criticism lobbed at the films over the decade. (or in the case of Dumbo criticism lobbed at Disney generally). This reached peak absurdity in Beauty and the Beast where the live action film went out of its way to try to respond to every bad faith criticism anyone ever made. (i.e. trying to explain why the servants were also punished, does Belle suffer from Stockholm Syndrome? etc.) Aladdin doesn't quite escape this tendency but it largely ignores some of the really bad hot takes that exist around the film I.e. This fantasy land isn't very much like the Middle East, Why did Aladdin get punished for Abu's mistake? Etc. The changes they made to the story-aging up Jasmine and giving her more to do, giving the Genie more agency in the climax/story, a complete re-write of Arabian Nights-felt germane and organic to the story. Most are neutral, and a few were for the better. (I like the part the Genie plays in the climax much more). It really felt like the same story.
It is for this reason the film is very entertaining. The technical aspects are utterly gorgeous. The film is a charming take on setting and the film is as delightful for the senses as such classics as The Thief of Baghdad. The musical sequences land and the cast does a great job with the songs. Richie directs everything with evident glee and everyone is clearly having fun. I must say that Massoud is just perfect for the role. He is sexy, charming and embodies the diamond in the rough.
The big question, of course, is WIll Smith. I like his Genie and they wisely stayed away from trying to replicate Williams. Smith's Genie is entirely his own. He seemed to be channeling his Fresh Prince persona for the role. It works. The character is not as iconic, powerful, or humorous as Williams' turn but it is no mere serviceable stand in either. Smith makes the character his own and you stop thinking about Williams about 5 minutes after he shows up.
This is a fun film. One of the better Disney live action remakes.