Chad Byrnes

Credit: Disney

Aladdin Conjures a Chaotic Yet Joyful Spirit

Guy Ritchie’s knee-jerk, rapid-fire tone, as seen in capers like Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch, finds an unlikely home in Disney’s wide-eyed, family-friendly fantastical realm. Your senses almost crack from CGI overload and an overcompensation of delight, especially during Will Smith's exuberant Genie scenes. Thankfully, Ritchie’s directing also doesn’t feel as rushed or forced here. It’s pacified. There are even moments of wistful romance. Who would’ve thought?...