Aladdin Movie Review | Safe for Kids?

Should children see the new Disney Aladdin Movie Review | Safe for Kids?, an honest parents guide and mom review to the newest Disney live action film remake. No spoilers! #Aladdin May contain commissioned links.

Aladdin Movie Review | Safe for Kids? #Aladdin

Ruining a classic or upping the nostalgia?

It’s yet another live action remake of a classic Disney movie. I have to admit that I went into Disney’s Aladdin feeling hurt. I’m a huge Robin Williams fan – and I cringe at the thought of anyone trying to fill his priceless shoes. But with any nostalgic remake, we go in with high childhood hopes. And with low marketing dollars behind this film, we also go in with low expectations.

But does this Aladdin movie deliver a magic carpet ride for this generation of Disney lovers? In this Aladdin Movie Review | Safe for Kids?, I’m talking visuals, the story, a full PG age rating breakdown, and sharing whether my kids will be seeing a whole new world or just another “meh” movie. A no spoiler parent movie review, we may need more wishes.

The Visuals

Agrabah never looked so good. Between the bright and bold colors to the CGI animals to the extreme aerial views, Aladdin does not disappoint in the visuals. And in IMAX, I could really appreciate every detail of the visual effects department. Bringing Agrabah to life was certainly a huge undertaking – but worth the effort for this live action film. The vastness of this beautiful world, Agrabah feels real.

The Story

If you haven’t seen the original, I won’t spoil the plot line. But for those familiar with Aladdin, there’s definitely a well worn path in this story. But even those who know Aladdin inside and out can appreciate a fresh viewpoint on a well-loved tale. One part West Side Story musical, another part a stunning Bollywood production and yet another part of childhoods past – it was ever evolving.

But while creative liberties were taken, I found the new twists on the story were actually appreciated instead of critiqued. Guy Ritchie did an amazing job of balancing the nostalgia with his own mark. A stunning display of cultural diversity, traditional details and representation – Aladdin is also a film that begs for acceptance in a modern day world. 

The cast was perfection. I’ll admit, when Will Smith started to sing his first song – I was worried. Shaky, a bit pitchy, I thought this was going to be a cringe-worthy performance. But wow, he ended with a high note. More than just his own unique spin on the Genie, I truly believe that Will Smith honored Robin Williams in this role.

The balance of the foundation laid with this character to the building of his own personality – it was a delicate role that was executed surprisingly well. And I have to admit, Will Smith as blue as a Smurf really grew on me. A fresh (prince) twist? Irony.

From Mena Massoud as Aladdin to Naomi Scott as Jasmine, they truly brought the spirit of the characters we love to life. And if you thought Jasmine was feisty in the original, just wait until your kids see her now. They will have a whole new perspective on this Disney princess – and I’m here for it.

Marwan Kenzari, well, he’s no Jonathan Freeman. He was probably my least favorite character of the film, but still did a good enough job to keep the villain of this movie still the villain. 

That PG Rating

Is Aladdin safe for kids? Comparing against the original – we would hope for yes. But rated PG, you know that these ratings could lean either way (Christopher Robin PG or Incredibles 2 PG?). And parents deserve the chance to demystify whether Aladdin is really ok for children.

Why is Aladdin rated PG? Aladdin has a PG age rating for “action/peril.” Aladdin may not be for all audiences, especially those with younger kids. 

Language. NONE. Yet again Aladdin is proof that you can have a good movie without any swear words. Not a single name in vain or any questionable phrases. Hallelujah.

Adult Themes. Also NONE. Can we get an amen?

Violence. Ok, so here’s where the possible question mark could go. The action/peril would definitely reside in this category. And I have to tread lightly here – because no spoilers. There’s a sudden “doom” act that may come as surprise to many (including those knowing the story well). This may result in questions coming from younger audience members.

There’s also a possessed animal that may cause nightmares for younger kids as well. I would definitely suggest screening before bringing kids under the age of 5-years old.

What Aladdin Age Rating is Recommended for Kids?

Is Aladdin kid friendly? At a lengthy 2 hours and 8 minutes, there is a tendency for things to drag on a bit for toddlers and young kids.

What age is recommended to watch Aladdin? But with lots of action (although slower than the original), songs, and upbeat Bollywood dancing and costumes, I would recommend the new live-action Aladdin movie for children as young as 5-years old.

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Overall

When the lights dimmed, my arms were crossed. I was convinced that I wasn’t going to like this movie. NOTHING can compare to Robin Williams as Genie and NOTHING can compare to the childhood love I have for this movie. And that is true. But instead of comparing this Aladdin movie to the original and looking for what was missing, I found myself relishing in my old childhood memories. It was FUN. There’s a sense of playfulness and childhood wonder that has been missing from the other live action Disney films. A diamond in the rough, per se?

As far as Disney live action films go, this is a rare diamond in the rough. I went in 1000% skeptical, cringing at the thought of “another Disney live action.” But finally we have a true Disney live action movie that I’m 100% on board for the ride. Am I seeing a whole new world? Well, no. I’m still a classic Disney girl through and through. But there’s enough preserved nostalgia combined with modern day twists to make this magic carpet ride worth at least a loop or two around Agrabah.

I don’t hand out good reviews willingly. But this is a surprising must-see. So will I be taking my kids? Absolutely. This is THE film my 6-year old daughter will be talking about all summer long – if not singing every song. Diversity, female empowerment, a familiar story brought to life – this movie captures what a Disney movie should be for our kids’ childhoods. And I can’t wait to show her just how FUN this magic carpet ride can be.

Follow Disney’s Aladdin:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DisneyAladdin
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/DisneyAladdin
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DisneyAladdin

Disney’s live-action Aladdin is in theaters May 24, 2019. Will you be taking your kids to see it?

I was invited to attend a press screening of Disney’s Aladdin in exchange for this Aladdin Movie Review | Safe for Kids? post. Be sure to follow Raising Whasians for more movie updates, celebrity interviews, entertainment and behind-the-scenes info!