The court of public opinion known as Twitter would like to have a word with the creators of the upcoming live-action remake of Aladdin.
On Wednesday (Dec. 19), Entertainment Weekly gave fans an exclusive first-look of what to look forward to in the Guy Ritchie-directed film, which stars Will Smith (Genie), Mena Massoud (Aladdin) and Naomi Scott (Princess Jasmine).
However, Smith’s portrayal of the genie has not translated the best with fans. In fact, many are weighing in with an onslaught of bewildered reactions.
After seeing some of the backlash came in, with many noting how Smith’s character had not been changed to emulate the blue tone of the animated character’s, the actor himself chimed in to clarify.
“BAM!! First look at the Genie , Princess Jasmine, and #Aladdin!” Smith wrote on Instagram. “Check Me Rockin’ the Top Knot Ponytail Vibes in @entertainmentweekly (and yes, I’m gonna be BLUE! 🙂 This is how the Genie is in Human / Disguise Form. My character will be CGI most of the movie.)”
So while Smith has reassured fans that the likeness of the character, as timelessly voiced by Robin Williams in the original, will be preserved throughout the film, others aren’t as easily convinced.
Take a look at the preview of the upcoming Aladdin remake and see how people are up in arms below.