'Aladdin': How the new Will Smith blockbuster compares to original classic
"Aladdin" hits theaters Friday and with it, a new generation will get to experience "A Whole New World" for the first time.
The original classic, featuring the voice of the late, great Robin Williams as the Genie, is still an iconic animated feature. But this new live-action film will also have fans singing and dancing along to stars Will Smith, Mena Massoud and Naomi Scott.
Here's a look back at the 1992 feature and the new movie millions will get to see this weekend -- and how they are both unique experiences.
Minor spoilers ahead, but nothing game-changing.
1. This ain't your mother's Jasmine
No offense to the original princess whatsoever, but this new character Scott plays is empowered to the max.
Aside from her impressive pipes, Scott is no damsel in distress and wants to take action to help further her kingdom.
She also gets her own song and has a new surprise ending that will inspire millions of girls and boys far and wide.
2. The Genie also has a nice twist
The first thing you have to know is that Will Smith is not trying to replace Robin Williams in any way. He's said as much.
And honestly, that would be impossible. The late comedian was an incomparable revelation as the beloved character almost 27 years ago.
While this Genie is also wise and lovable, he has a unique ending of his own as compared to the original film.
Pay close attention to his special relationship with a certain lady, which will be a magical payoff by the time the film ends.
3. More backstory about Jafar and Jasmine's mother
You still need to suspend reality a bit when entering this film, but to make the story more fit for live-action, the creators added more backstory about Jasmine's mother and even the nefarious Jafar.
You really get to know what makes these characters tick and while you want to sympathize with Jafar for his humble beginnings... it's Jafar, and he's about as bad as they come.
4. New music
As mentioned above, Jasmine gets her own empowering ballad in a song titled, "Speechless."
The song features lyrics like "Enough is enough" and "I'm gonna stand up for what I believe in" when a certain someone tries to silence her.
Jasmine can't be silenced when it comes to helping her people and that's a lesson all young boys and girls can live with for the rest of their lives.
5. Let's talk about a guard named Hakim
If the original head of the sultan's guard gave you nightmares, you're not alone.
But this new version is rich with layers and explores the morality of a monarchy like never before.
In a vast contrast to the original, Hakim (who was actually called Razoul in the original; there was a Hakim too, but he was't their leader) has a few moments of his own here, especially one where he has to choose between what's right technically and what's right in his heart.
I'll let you guess what he decides.
"Aladdin" is in theaters nationwide now.
ABC News is part of parent company Disney.
