Rented it yesterday and wasn't sure what to expect. We had both seen the animated (cartoon) one with Robin Williams before. After watching the new one, we'd say it was TERRIFIC!! The first movie (Robin Williams) was a kids type movie, whereas the new one is definitely more of an older age/adult type movie. Will Smith was super excellent as the Genie. Actually, the entire cast was great. The parade, introducing Prince Ali, to the Sultan...…..just plain superb! The dancing.…...superb. If anything at all, when it should get some major awards, the costumes should definitely get an Oscar. I watched a short segment of Ellen DeGeneres, where she had Will Smith, the girl that played Jasmine and the guy that played Aladdin on her show. A LOT of money went into making this movie and, just like Will Smith stated on the Extras of the movie, "Disney done it and has it (the money)".
I went to the theater to see it, and I thought it was amazing! The costumes were absolutely fabulous. It couldn't have been done better, in my opinion. My son said the animated version has been his favorite Disney movie, so he won't see this version, and I think he is really missing out. It is a fantastic movie.