Eric Johanson

My wife and I watched this movie in the theater when it first came out. I don't recall much in the way of specifics about the film, but I can relate my experience. I loved the book as a kid, but the lack of a coherent story line in the movie bored me to tears. One of the only movies I wanted to leave 2/3 of the way through. My wife convinced me not to leave, not because she was enjoying it, but she said "it might get better". It didn't. I have a strong suspension of disbelief, so the fantasy elements were not a problem for me, but overall it came across as depressing and boring. Worst movie I ever sat through. If I could give it a zero stars I would.

Fantastic! This movie was an all-out success in my book. By far the best live-action Disney adaptation I've seen. Casting was perfect, acting was great, stunning visuals, including the sensational costumes and beautifully done CGI! Kudos to the screenwriters too, updating the story with a few tweaks that worked amazingly well. And while criticism has been laid at the choice of Will Smith as the Genie, Smith's Genie was great! He respects Robin Williams's memory by not stealing his lines, and doing a fresh take, making it his own. Overall I'd give it a 9.5 out of 10. Read Steve Crowson's excellent review from last week..