The New Adventures of Aladdin

The New Adventures of Aladdin (Les Nouvelles Aventures D Aladdin) is a French comedy film, directed by Arthur Benzaquen and scripted by Daive Cohen. The film features well-known actors like Kev Adams as Sam/Aladdin, Jean-Paul Rouve as Khalid/Genie, Vanessa Guide as Lund/Sofia, William Lebghil as Khalid, and Audrey Lamy as Barbara. The film was released in France in 2015 and gained much popularity due to its unique interpretation of a well-known tale and the performances of its ensemble cast.

The New Adventures of Aladdin begins on the eve of Christmas, where a modern mall bustling with holiday shoppers sets the stage for the forthcoming comedic adventure. Here, we are introduced to our protagonist, Sam (played by Kev Adams), a chronically lazy young man who works as a store Santa along with his buddy, Khalid (William Lebghil).

Instead of getting into the spirit of things, Sam and Khalid, bored with the monotonous routine, decide to rob the large department store of its holiday earnings, envisioning a life of riches and ease. However, their plans are interrupted by a group of children who request a Christmas story. Caught off-guard, Sam begins to weave a tale, drawing inspiration from the classic tale of Aladdin.

As Sam steps into the shoes of Aladdin in his storytelling, the movie shifts into a vivid comic, fantastical setting inside the magical city of Baghdad. The film masterfully oscillates between the real-world antics of Sam and Khalid and the colourful world of Aladdin, where he embarks on a journey to win over the heart of Princess Sofia (played by Vanessa Guide).

Aladdin, much like his storyteller, is no ordinary hero; he is mischievous, resourceful, and ultimately, loveable. Along with his friends, and of course, the indispensable and whacky Genie (Jean-Paul Rouve), Aladdin navigates through the challenges laid by the city’s cunning Vizier, found in true Aladdin style, filled with enchanting landscapes, magic lamps, flying carpet rides, and lots of laughter.

On another level, the film breathes fresh life into this timeless story with cutting-edge humour. It doesn’t just recreate Aladdin's fairy-tale world but adds in the quirks and nuances of the 21st-century mindset, infusing the movie with present-day references, jokes, and a healthy dose of sarcasm, making it appealing to a wide range of audience demographics.

Where Kev Adams delicately balances between Sam’s endearing nonchalance and Aladdin's cheeky charm, Jean-Paul Rouve's dynamic portrayal of the lovable Genie steals the show. Vanessa Guide brings an independent, confident, and modern rendition to Princess Sofia, challenging the stereotype of damsels in distress. The bond between Sam/Aladdin and Khalid shines through in turmoil and triumph, emphasising the swaggering chemistry between Adams and Lebghil.

Audrey Lamy also deserves a mention for her invaluable contribution to the comedic elements in the movie. The film also includes a vibrant lineup of supporting characters, each adding depth and dimension to the story, and contributing to the relatable nature of the film that is not just for kids, but also for adults who enjoy a good laugh with their nostalgia.

In conclusion, The New Adventures of Aladdin is not your average retelling of Aladdin; it explores the well-known fairy tale from a refreshing comedic perspective, while subtly poking fun at pop culture, and never losing sight of the heartwarming undercurrents of friendship, courage, and the power of imagination. This lighthearted, irreverent, and wildly entertaining film is sure to leave audiences with a smile on their faces and a new fondness for a classic tale. It is a genuinely delightful blend of the nostalgic and the new, making it a must-watch for Aladdin fans and comedy lovers alike!