New MAGIC CARPET RIDE ticks the boxes

Let’s take a magic carpet ride to another Arabian night.

In this live-action remake of the 1992 animated movie, Aladdin tells the tale of street thief Aladdin (Mena Massoud), who finds a magic lamp and becomes the newest master of the all-powerful and eccentric Genie (Will Smith).

With Genie offering to grant him any three wishes he desires, Aladdin sets out to woo Princess Jasmine (Naomi Scott) while dodging the trappings of the nefarious vizier, Jafar (Marwan Kenzari).

I can hardly believe this film was directed by Guy Ritchie. For a director who’s primarily known for his gritty crime movies, he certainly succeeded in giving us a bright and vibrant fairy tale.

The three key protagonists were all exceptionally portrayed.

Aladdin is brave and charming yet he can be awkward around Jasmine, which gives him an endearing quality.

Jasmine is incredibly strong, compassionate and now has an added story arc involving her goal to become the next sultan. Not to mention, Naomi Scott has a killer singing voice.

Considering how iconic Robin Williams made the role originally, I would be remiss not discussing Will Smith’s Genie. He brings his own style of comedy and music that puts a different spin on the character, whilst also paying a suitable amount of homage to the late Robin Williams.

The only complaint I have is in regards to Jafar. Though he’s still an intelligent villain, this version doesn’t have anywhere near the same level of menace that the original possessed.

With that said, the rest of the film was amazing. It kept to the key beats of the original story with a couple of welcome additions and alterations.

When I go see one of these Disney remakes, I want to have a fun time and that’s exactly the experience I had watching this Aladdin.