Ashley Bartlett

That girl, Naomi Scott, can sing it out! That boy, Mena Massoud, can boogey! And, Will Smith, I wish I could have a friend like you! (At least, I think that was Mena Massoud dancing.) Aladdin was one of my two favorite Disney movies as a child and I am not disappointed. Fun, musical, inspiring, and colorful. This movie is not the same as the original and I'm glad for it. Very close, but not the same. The original, in my nostalgic mind, would be monumental to live up to. Love the new song! Jasmine was a major part of why I liked the 1992 cartoon version. Not only did they honor her strength, but they emphasized her bad-assery! To you, Mr. Smith, I say--Robin Williams as Genie is a tough act to follow. That being said, Will Smith's version of Genie is just as fun and, totally, his own. Not sure if that's the real Will shining through or if it's great acting, but his moment of gratefulness was humbling. Mena Massoud is a worthy Aladdin, in my book. His sweet and genuine awkwardness was so, incredibly, enduring. I was struggling to believe he was drinking the koolaid, because of it. Altogether, it was a good time!