ALADIN FILM UPDATE

It’s probably not fair to compare Smith’s Genie to Robin Williams’ original, but thankfully he doesn’t attempt a half-baked impersonation. However, Will Smith and Naomi Scott, playing the Genie and Princess Jasmine, slip into their roles nicely.

It's easier to imagine him as a charming love interest in a Netflix romcom. But contrary to Aladdin, Massoud has no glint of rebellion on his face, his smile gleeful rather than cheeky. He's a lively performer with a funny sense of cluelessness, particularly when attempting portray his royal persona, Ali Ababwa. Mena Massoud is a lively performer with a funny sense of cluelessnessĪladdin, the street thief who’s turned into a prince by a genie via a magic lamp, is played by Mena Massoud. But despite the laughs and thrills and up-to-date attitudes, the new Aladdin feels like an underwhelming copy of the cartoon. It’s a commendable plight, especially given the diversity of the cast, which consists mostly of black or Middle-eastern actors populating the streets of Agrabah.

ALADIN FILM UPDATE

But in Guy Ritchie’s live-action remake there's an clear attempt to update the story to be more inclusive for modern audiences. Depicting the Middle-east as a land of sword-swallowers and devious merchants doesn't sit well anymore, or even in 1992. The original Disney Aladdin (1992) has its problems, mostly in terms of representation. Starring Will Smith, Mesa Massoud, Naomi Scott

Aladin film