Disney Gives A First Look at Aladdin
Disney released the first look at Aladdin this morning giving us a glimpse into the storyline and visuals of the characters. Here is everything you’ll want to know about the upcoming, live-remake.
The Genie
Taking on the role of Genie is the one and only, Will Smith. Considering Robin Williams brought to life one of the most iconic Disney film characters, those are some pretty big shoes to fill.
“Whenever you’re doing things that are iconic, it’s always terrifying,” said Smith. Rather than trying to recreate Genie in a Robin Williams-fashion, Smith has decided to “infuse the character with a timeless version of himself.” A bit of hip-hop flavor will bring a unique spin to this classic character.
The first look at Genie received lots of backlash today. Fans took to Twitter calling the new film a “panto” and Smith’s character looking like “Sin Bad on a diet”. Smith eventually responded on Instagram stating, “I’m gonna be BLUE! 🙂 This is how the Genie is in Human/Disguise Form. My Character will be CGI most of the movie.”
Jasmine and Aladdin
After more than six months of searching and hundreds of auditions, Aladdin and Jasmine were cast. 27-year-old Canadian actor Mena Massoud took on the role of the quick-thinking, street rat Aladdin while British actress Naomi Scott played Jasmine.
In this remake, Jasmine’s character is much more evolved. She reflects “present-day ideals that make her a much more rounded character”.
“Jasmine’s main objective at the beginning is to really protect her people and to do right by them. She definitely isn’t a finished article at the beginning of the movie, but she has this beautiful arc and progression, and she goes from asking for what she wants to just taking it, and displaying that she is a leader,” said Scott.
New to the remake is Dalia, Jasmine’s handmaiden and best friend (yes, Rajah will still be in the movie). Nasim Pedrad (Jasmine) stated, “Jasmine is so resilient and independent in this version, she’s focused on things other than which boy she’s going to end up with […] She really wants to be a leader, and Dalia really supports that but at the same time wants to make sure she doesn’t get in trouble.”
Theatrical Debut
Aladdin is set to arrive in theaters on May 24, 2019.