Aladdin is coming to DVD and Blu-Ray on Tuesday, September 10th and Macaroni Kid was given the chance to have a sneak peek of the new Live Action movie before it hits stores.
I hosted an Aladdin double feature party so that our neighborhood families could reminisce over the original version and fall in love with the new version. The kids had a blast watching the movies, making “magic carpets” and meeting with Princess Jasmine, but what did we think of the new movie?
 |  |  |
I still remember watching the classic animated version at the age of 14 in theaters. The music and vivid color of that cartoon is what made it an instant favorite and why it continues to be a favorite today. As with all remakes of our childhood treasures, I was skeptical if this live action version would hold up to beauty and magic of the original. Within 5 minutes, I was in love with this version too!
Here are the top 5 things I loved the most about the Live Action Version of Aladdin:
1. The Scenery
If you thought that Agrabah looked stunning from the Magic Carpet ride in the original version, you will be amazed at how it looks from every angle in the live action version. The colors and sounds that are created by the Disney geniuses is beyond your imagination. The new movie truly creates a “Whole New World” for your viewing pleasure.
2. Jasmine’s New Solo
The power ballad, Speechless, belted out by actress Naomi Scott, is a song that strikes a cord with many young girls (and older girls) who feel repressed and under appreciated. With lyrics such as "I won’t be silenced” and “don’t you underestimate me”, it will resonate with audiences for years to come.
3. Will Smith as the Genie
It must have been tough to step into the shoes of Robin Williams, but Will Smith brings his own swagger and style to this updated Genie. From the moment he appears in the first scene until he sails away in the last, Will Smith does an excellent job making this character his own. Not only is his singing and comedic timing on point, this latest version lets us get a glimpse of the human side of Genie.
4. Nasim Pedrad as Dalia
The character of Dalia, Jasmine’s Handmaiden, brings much needed normalcy and comic relieve to the castle. Not only is Dalia a handmaiden, she is also Jasmine’s childhood friend and the keeper of her secrets. Dalia turns the head of the Genie, which takes us on a second romantic journey during the movie.
5. The Animals
Just like the scenery, the CGI animals in this film are breathtaking. Raja, Abu, Iago and the entire parade during “Prince Ali” are all remarkably realistic. The animals look so real, that I had to research if they were truly computer generated.
The classic Aladdin will always hold a special place in my heart, but there are so many things to love about this live action version. Go out and get your copy today and see for yourself! Pre-Order Here
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
*I was compensated and given a copy of the movie for my review, however the opinions expressed are my own.
