A diamond in the rough!

Rating: 8/10 (25 May 2019)

Don't listen to the negative reviews. You know the ones I'm talking about. The reviewers that ask questions about whether or not it was necessary. The ones that compare it to the original 1992 classic, featuring a Robin Williams. The reviewers that moan about all our favorite Disney animated films being made into live action films, then proceed to complain that it has somehow ruined our childhood. Don't listen to those guys. They are a miserable lot! Guy Ritchie's interpretation of 'Aladdin' is faithful to the original, without feeling like a boring rehash. Will Smith adds his own personality to the Genie, and it feels very genuine and refreshing. He makes the roll his own, rather than a cringeworthy imitation of Williams' performance. Mena Massoud brings both swag and adorable awkwardness to the roll of Aladdin. Naomi Scott gives us a confident princess Jasmine. The supporting cast is delightful, as are the costumes and musical numbers. It manages to feel familiar and warm, whilst allowing itself to be its own thing. I quite appreciate that. 'Aladdin' Is just as magical in 2019, as it was in 1992.