Aladdin (1992)

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Aladdin is one of Disney‘s most adored classics, being the indisputable favorite of many, many fans. The Lion King will always have that spot in my heart, but I also visited this story set in Agrabah dozens of times. Now, with the 2019’s remake about to premiere, I rewatched it last night and, once again, I fell in love. Honestly, I didn’t remember how funny and entertaining it is! It still holds up incredibly well, even though the film was released almost 30 years ago. The animation still looks stunning and fluid, but it’s the musical numbers and the voice work from the cast that makes this movie one of Disney‘s best.

As it’s known, Robin Williams shines in a role that stands out from his brilliant filmography, as his career-best interpretation of an animated character. Genie is one of the most versatile figures of Disney and Williams spreads out his wings of creativeness and imagination, delivering a phenomenal voice performance of the hilarious blue entity. From his seamless imitations to the simple yet extremely difficult tone changes, he gives everything. Genie appears every time the film most needs him, which is when the pacing starts to drop and needs something to pump it back up while moving the plot forward. He could merely be a plot device, but thankfully the writers gave him an unique personality with his own motivations, making us not only laugh with him but genuinely care about his destiny.

That’s the other main attribute of this movie: its writing. The dialogues feel realistic, grounded, and there are no real exposition scenes, besides the musical sequences, which are also meant to serve that purpose. Aladdin and Jasmine lived utterly opposite lives, and both wish to change. Each wants the other’s life experiences and adventures, which provides some amazing moments between these characters. I still wish their relationship had more time to develop (something I hope the remake will do), as well as Jafar‘s motivations. It’s 1992, and it’s an animated film, but the cliche villain who wants power because “I’m the bad guy” never quite worked. However, the menacing and dark voice of John Freeman sells this character. In addition to these protagonists, Abu and Iago are two comedy sources that perfectly work, all the time.

Musically, there is no way of denying the cultural impact that the Aladdin songs had. From Arabian Nights to A Whole New World, every song is filled with rich lyrics, great rhythm, and a beautiful tone. Not only are these able to develop the character or move the plot forward, but they also help the story never to break its fast pacing. Almost 30 years later, the animation quality still looks striking, and there are so many memorable backgrounds and visually outstanding settings. Disney‘s 90s decade is an absolute treasure in movie history: Beauty and the Beast, Toy Story, The Lion King, Pocahontas, Mulan, Tarzan, Aladdin and a few more animated diamonds (in the rough) that went a bit under the radar.

All of these will definitely get a live-action remake (some already have), and I welcome all of them. Stop trying to boycott something that will only help the new generations to fall in love with the same characters that we did. Live-action isn’t here to offend our childhood or produce cheap copies of our favorite films! It isn’t here to replace the originals but to honor them instead by delivering modern takes on stories that impacted us on a deep emotional level, and that will try to do the same for our children, grandsons and nephews. Are they going to be better than the source material? Worse? It doesn’t really matter as long as they keep the original’s essence and the traits that made us adore these unforgettable characters. And, please, stop the “they’re doing these remakes for money” argument. That can literally be said about every movie in the history of cinema. Unfortunately, entertainment is a business, it always was, and it always will be. Move on.

All in all, Aladdin is a beautifully passionate story about how two incredibly different people with two completely different lifestyles can come to love each other by who they truly are. Robin Williams is a perfectly polished diamond and his scenes alone superbly elevate this film. One of Disney most impactful classics, filled with memorable songs, well-written characters, and stunning animation, which holds up remarkably still to this day. Despite some nitpicks regarding Jafar and the protagonists’ relationship, Aladdin is undoubtedly an unbelievably precious gem which continues (and will continue) to be loved by newer generations all around the world.

Rating: A

Certainly one of the better animations from the reinvigorated 1990's Disney Studio. It still has the schmaltzy, over sentimental treatment that seems to torment me every time I watch a Disney film, but the characterisations of the "Genie" (Robin Williams") and the evil "Jafar" (Jonathan Freeman) are great as are the rest of the vocal acting talent (rather than using established stars). The script is punchy, well written and has plenty for folks of all ages to engage with. The songs are well paced and amusing and nowhere near as shouty as we have become used to in later animations. All in all this sits well as en enjoyable take on an an enjoyable Arabian Nights style story.

It's a classic. Grew up watching Aladdin all the time. Great movie still.

Prepare for a captivating and enchanting magic carpet ride unlike any other with Aladdin. This animated feature excels in every aspect, delivering an experience that will leave you spellbound from start to finish.

Aladdin, a street rat yearning for acceptance, embarks on a journey filled with self-discovery and adventure. His bond with the mischievous monkey Abu adds depth to his character, as he navigates a world where he seeks connection and importance.

The sequence in the Cave of Wonders is a visual marvel, portraying themes of self-doubt, determination, and thievery. It immerses viewers in Aladdin's quest for acceptance and validation, making for a compelling and relatable narrative.

Jasmine's character is a standout, portraying a young princess who craves individuality and purpose beyond her royal status. She embodies strength, determination, and a fierce spirit, challenging traditional expectations of princesses with her own unique identity.

The diverse cast of characters, including Carpet, Iago, Genie, Jafar, Raja, and Sultan, adds richness to the story, showcasing a range of personalities and motivations. From the mischievous villain to the loyal companions, each character contributes to the film's dynamic and engaging narrative.

One of the film's most iconic and breathtaking moments is the song "A Whole New World," where Aladdin and Jasmine soar on the magic carpet. This scene is a testament to the film's magical and immersive storytelling, capturing the essence of adventure and romance in animation history.

In conclusion, Aladdin's exceptional storytelling, vibrant characters, and exhilarating scenes make it a must-watch for anyone seeking a magical and thrilling cinematic experience. Strap in for a ride on the magic carpet and let Aladdin sweep you off your feet.

Aladdin (1992), revisiting Robin Williams catalogue

My lovely wife and I watched Aladdin on Valentine's Day, and it felt like the perfect evening. So much better than an overpriced meal in an over-hyped restaurant, especially since we're both excellent cooks and knew we'd have more fun at home with Robin Williams doing a thousand voices as the Genie.

Williams' Genie is just the best. The performance is manic, brilliant, endlessly inventive, rapid-fire references to everything from Jack Nicholson to Ed Sullivan to Rodney Dangerfield. I'm not sure kids would laugh as hard as we did; half the jokes require you to remember 1950s television and 1970s stand-up comedy. But that's what made Williams a genius, he played to multiple generations simultaneously, giving kids the physical comedy and giving adults the cultural satire, and somehow making it all feel seamless.

This was made in the day when Disney knew how to create a movie that people loved. Before they lost it and went into the streaming business, before everything became franchise management and corporate synergy, when animation studios still trusted that a good story, memorable songs, and a once-in-a-generation vocal performance could be enough. Aladdin is that rare Disney film where the sidekick becomes the soul of the movie without overwhelming it, where Williams' improvisational chaos serves the narrative rather than derailing it.

It holds up beautifully. The animation is gorgeous, the songs are memorable, and Williams reminds you why he was irreplaceable. Perfect Valentine's Day viewing, and perfect reminder of what Disney used to be.