Pretty much every announcement that Disney is planning a live-action remake of one of their animated classics tends to be met with indifference or outright scorn. The news that Guy Ritchie was working on
Aladdin, in particular, came in for some intense backlash - especially when that first look at Will Smith's Genie was released.
One of the biggest problems people seem to have with these live-action adaptations is that they see them as being completely pointless when the original already exists (couldn't you say that about any remake?), and, a few new tunes and an added subplot aside, Ritchie's film doesn't really attempt anything new.
Once you're willing to accept that and just go along for the ride, there's a lot to enjoy.
The cast is a major selling point. Newcomer Mena Massoud's Aladdin is less brash and cocky than his animated counterpart, but this actually succeeds in making him more likable in the long run, and the actor does a terrific job. Will Smith's Genie will inevitably invite comparisons to Robin Williams' iconic interpretation, and while he does fall a bit short as the blue CGI force of nature, he's far more effective - and funny - as the human version of the character and does just enough to make it his own.
The real standout, however, is Naomi Scott's Jasmine. The Princess of Agrabah gets a lot more to do here, and Scott excels in the role while giving the character a much-needed update and sense of purpose. She's also the best singer by a wide margin.
The musical numbers are another pleasant surprise. That clip of Smith bellowing out "Prince Ali" was met with ridicule, but when you see the entire thing in context, it's actually a great sequence. The "Arabian Nights" opening and, yes, "A Whole New World" are also highlights.
It's a bit long and things do begin to drag a little towards the end when Jafar (Marwan Kenzari is fine, but nowhere near as intimidating as he should be) seizes power, but by then you'll likely be too swept up in the adventure to care.
The cynics may scoff, but Aladdin 2019 is a funny, charming fairy tale with a great cast and some excellent tunes. Sure, you've heard 'em all before, but sometimes it's okay to sit back and enjoy a few golden oldies. At the end of the day, the kids are going to love it - and isn't that the most important thing?