The film plays more like a version of the Broadway musical than the animated endeavour and includes a lot more songs. Unfortunately nothing dissipates dramatic tension more than when the actors break into song so the dynamic structure is effected. They have also wisely cleaned up a lot of the questionable stereotypes.

While Will Smith is certainly no Robin Williams, the demands placed on the actor are greatly diminished, so he is more than capable of the role. Mena Massoud as Aladdin and Naomi Scott as Jasmine are also well cast and both have the acting and singing chops to carry off the role effectively. However Marwan Kenzari as the big bad, Jafar lacks a certain sense of menace.

Thirty minutes longer than the original film, the pace is mostly brisk but the story is slowed by the inclusion of a few too many songs. This is a more adult effort and lacks the original’s manic level of energy. It is however well crafted and has its own appeal.

Rob Hudson
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A thrilling and vibrant live-action adaptation of Disney’s animated classic, “Aladdin” is the exciting tale of the charming street rat Aladdin, the courageous and self-determined Princess Jasmine and the Genie who may be the key to their future. Directed by Guy Ritchie, who brings his singular flair for fast-paced, visceral action to the fictitious port city of Agrabah, “Aladdin” is written by John August and Ritchie based on Disney’s “Aladdin.” The film stars Will Smith as the Genie; Mena Massoud as Aladdin; Naomi Scott as Jasmine; Marwan Kenzari as Jafar; Navid Negahban as the Sultan; Nasim Pedrad as Dalia and Billy Magnussen as Prince Anders.

“Aladdin” is produced by Dan Lin, p.g.a., and Jonathan Eirich, p.g.a., with Kevin De La Noy and Marc Platt serving as executive producers. Eight-time Academy Award®-winning composer Alan Menken provides the score, which includes new recordings of the original songs written by Menken and Oscar®-winning lyricists Howard Ashman and Tim Rice and includes two new songs written by Menken and lyrics by Oscar and Tony Award®-winning songwriters Benj Pasek and Justin Paul.

Disney’s Aladdin is in Australian cinemas May 23!
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