A Whole New World opens up in this live remake of the well-known cartoon classic.

Fans and (some) sceptics attended the first Adelaide screening of this highly anticipated film, not knowing what to expect. After viewing the trailers for many months, it had been questioned for its casting of Will Smith (as the Genie that the late Robin Williams voiced in the cartoon film), while others wondered if the soundtrack would give them the hit of the nostalgia they needed from remaking such a cultural classic in most (now) millennials’ lives.

It is safe to say, that Aladdin did not disappoint!

Viewers should look forward to a stream of colour, music, dancing and delight, and although some plot points were a bit fast-moving for some (yes it indeed is a Guy Ritchie film), it all tied off perfectly in the end.

Props to Will Smith for stepping into some very big shoes; he made the Genie his own and was well enjoyed by many. With Mena Massoud as Aladdin, and Naomi Scott as Jasmine, the casting is superb, and these two young guns took it to the max with their performances. The only question to be asked, is why Jafar was played by someone young, and not creepy enough, as Marwan Kenzari also had to give his own take on the character.

This one is for the big kids as well as the little ones, with some jokes that would fly straight over their heads. Enjoy thoroughly.

4/5 Stars.

Kirra Hussey