See «Aladdin» to venture into Arabian nights

Cinema Wednesdays - Loris S. Musumeci

«It's time for me to tell you the story of Aladdin, the princess and the lamp.» 

Two years ago, it was Beauty and the Beast which was adapted from cartoon to film by Disney. This time, it's the turn of’Aladdin. And let's just say that this new adaptation is really well done. With the Disney collection now part of our cultural heritage, it's a smart move on the part of the American animation company to bring these little masterpieces back to life in film form.

Of course, Disney is a money-making machine, and has everything to gain from it, especially as it appeals to a ready-made audience. But it's not just about money: it's also about art and entertainment. These cartoons were already a revolution, and for the time being, the films simply repeat the effect. revolution. In any case, as far as’Aladdin, is a real spectacle - as was the case for Beauty and the Beast, but the militant background made the film a little less sympathetic.

Read also: Beauty and the Beast, or innocent militancy

Even though we know the story, the characters and the songs, and that each of these elements is reproduced almost exactly as it was in the film, we're still caught up in the atmosphere. It's a tender moment. It's a great time at the movies. Childhood memories certainly have something to do with it. revolution is that copying and pasting is always fun.

What's more, it's obvious that we're dealing with movie moguls. Not necessarily authors per se, but bosses. Because they know their techniques. Because they know what they're doing, where they're going and, above all, where they want to take us. Because the camera manages to dance with its characters to the rhythm of the exceptional songs of’Aladdin- which won the Oscar for Best Film Score in 1993, among other awards.

The scenery is not to be outdone. We're immersed in the fabulous city of Agrabah. It's an imaginary city, but its oriental feel comes through, even if it means playing with caricature. The minarets, the market, the colors. Its farandole of colors. We're in for a real treat, which kills any sense of realism, of course, but since this is a fable, what more could you ask for?

A fable implies a moral. It's there, and it's simplistic too. Let's not forget that this is Disney, not Tarkovsky. Looking for sophisticated psychology and existential dilemmas in this film would be like asking for fresh fish in a bookshop. Even if the moral is simplistic, it doesn't turn ridiculous. It's by being who you really are that you can succeed: interesting. Lying is bad: okay, thanks. Being selfish makes you unhappy: O.K. At least the lesson isn't unhealthy. Plus, it gives kids something to dream about, Aladdin delivers a beautiful message. And sometimes the simplest morals are the ones that have the most impact, even for adults.

 Another good point of decor: the actors. Why set? Because, just as the colors of Agrabah dazzle us, so do they. Aladdin (Mena Massoud) and Jasmine (Naomi Scott) are charming as hell and play their roles well. As for the genie, he's played by an excellent Will Smith, who gives the film its humor and lightness. All that remains is for me to express three wishes: that you go and see the film, that you like it, and that you in turn discover a genie and a magic carpet to venture into the Arabian nights, where you might meet your princess under the moonlight. To live a blue dream of love.

Write to the author: loris.musumeci@leregardlibre.com

Photo credit: © The Walt Disney Company Switzerland