Well, they’ve done it. It was only a matter of time before Disney showed us just what Will Smith’s Genie looks like in the live-action Aladdin remake—not the Entertainment Weekly cover, but Genie in all his blue glory. But rather than remind us of Robin Williams’ take on the classic character, Smith’s got much more of a Tobias Fünke vibe. It’s… something.
Agrabah looks epic; the “Prince Ali” number looks delightful; but when it comes to the characters, the jury’s still out. Also, what is up with Jafar’s line reading—where’s the campiness? Rub the lamp and watch the teaser for yourself:
The official synopsis, from Walt Disney Studios:
A thrilling and vibrant live-action adaptation of Disney’s animated classic, Aladdin is the exciting tale of the charming street rat Aladdin, the courageous and self-determined Princess Jasmine and the Genie who may be the key to their future. Directed by Guy Ritchie, who brings his singular flair for fast-paced, visceral action to the fictitious port city of Agrabah, Aladdin is written by John August and Ritchie based on Disney’s Aladdin. The film stars Will Smith as the Genie; Mena Massoud as Aladdin; Naomi Scott as Jasmine; Marwan Kenzari as Jafar; Navid Negahban as the Sultan; Nasim Pedrad as Dalia; Billy Magnussen as Prince Anders; and Numan Acar as Hakim.
Aladdin comes to theaters May 24.