Aladdin Review: 4 Ups & 5 Downs

Downs...

5. Marwan Kenzari's Jafar Is TERRIBLE

Easily fans' biggest complaint about Aladdin's marketing was how utterly flat and unremarkable the live-action version of villain Jafar (Marwan Kenzari) appeared to be.

And sadly, it's a shame to report that Jafar is indeed the film's single biggest failing, largely due to Kenzari being so thoroughly miscast in this role.

Though the film admirably attempts to make Jafar a more suave, handsome and even charming character - compared to being both a literal and figurative cartoon in the animated film - Kenzari's lack of screen presence and wooden line readings fail to do justice to the iconic Disney baddie.

The part desperately needed an actor with actual bass in their voice, not to mention a prevailing charisma, both of which Kenzari simply lacks.

It's more a criticism of him being cast in this role in the first place than the actor himself, but either way, this Jafar is a total misfire.