Disney’s Arabian musical classic is being re-imagined into a live-action spectacle and here’s our first look, courtesy of Entertainment Weekly.
The biggest change in question is the blue genie in the room; Will Smith’s take on the beloved character is considerably less blue than expected and it’s causing an uproar on social media. However, this version of the genie could very well be a callback to the Broadway version, with even the hair and beard bearing resemblance. According to Entertainment Weekly, Smith recounts wanting to create a new and “unique” iteration of the character with his own spin on it whilst still honoring the original.
We also get to see for the first time the villainous Jafar, sporting the classic red and gold attire as he holds the genie’s lamp in order to become the most powerful sorcerer in the world. Among the new looks at the characters is Aladdin’s monkey sidekick Abu, detailed CGI rendering him as an inevitably adorable crowd pleaser (and merchandising point). A change in Jasmine’s character arc is more than welcome, Entertainment Weekly stating that she will be an independent woman seeking power in order to protect and serve her people. This refreshing take on Jasmine will depict her as a princess that does not cower away from the responsibility of leadership but instead embraces it for the greater good. This first look also gives us a glimpse at the detailed and large-scale set of the city of Agrabah, built completely in London. This film definitely has the potential of being a visual spectacle that will definitely wow audiences next summer.
What scene are you most excited to see made live-action? Are you unhappy with the changes made in the new take on the Disney classic? Let us know over on @SuperBroMovies! –Ileana Meléndez
Source: Entertainment Weekly
Aladdin is set to hit theaters May 24, 2019.