The trend of nostalgia has been ruling the entertainment world, as audiences long to return to a simpler time. Disney has been cashing in on this fad, largely through live-action adaptations of classic animated blockbusters. Massive success followed projects like Beauty and the Beast, The Jungle Book, and Maleficent, and next up is the highly anticipated Aladdin movie.
Aladdin will return to Agrabah, following up on the 1992 classic. All eyes are on what the new cast will bring to the table, especially Will Smith's Genie. He's got big magical shoes to fill, and now cinephiles can have their first peek at the Genie, alongside the new Aladdin and Jasmine. Check it out.
One thing is clear, Disney fans have never had a friend like Will Smith's Genie. His look is majorly different, and likely teases a brand new version of the beloved Robin Williams character.
Will Smith is rocking a very ornate look for his version of Aladdin's Genie, a stark juxtaposition to the original cartoon character. Rather than taking on a blue skin, the costume is bringing the color to the character. The movie also appears not to be doing any crazy CGI to alter Smith's appearance, letting the Suicide Squad actor be visibly himself, while also playing the magical companion of Aladdin. Then again, the story by EW revealed the look is still being tinkered with, so we may see a more magical genie yet.
Aladdin's costume for Will Smith is very reminiscent of the character's appearance from the popular Broadway show of the same name. Still running strong, the stage Genie wears a very similar costume, therefore allowing the actor to move and sing freely without having to wipe blue paint off his body every night. Take a look at the photo below for reference.
Pretty similar, right? It seems like director Guy Ritchie and the crew of Aladdin are combining elements of both the original film and the Broadway musical, bringing the beloved property to live-action for the first time.
Will Smith is surrounded by Aladdin's title character, as well as Jasmine. Aladdin is played by Mena Massoud, who can also be seen in Amazon's Jack Ryan series. Power Rangers alum Naomi Scott is taking on the role of Jasmine, with both actors looking much more traditional in their costuming.
Aladdin will arrive in theaters on May 24, 2019. In the meantime, check out our 2019 release list to plan your trips to the movies in the New Year.
