
Naomi Scott spoke passionately about the song, saying that it really evokes the idea that, “Everyone has a voice. Titled “Speechless,” this new track was a collaboration between Alan Menken and Pasek and Paul (songwriters of La La Land, Dear Evan Hansen, and others) and is a solo piece performed at a pivotal moment for the character. The filmmaker quickly discovered that one of the most effective ways he could do this was through giving the character an original song. Building off Jasmine’s iconic line in the animated film, “I’m not a prize to be won,” Ritchie sought to imbue the character with her own hopes, dreams, and challenges. Going into the live-action adaptation of the animated film, one of the main goals for director Guy Ritchie was to give the character of Jasmine more independence. The Film Features an Updated Take on Jasmine and a New Song “During those times, I would just back off and let him do what he does because it’s so good,” laughed Menken. “The whole experience just started waking up this fun, child-like, silly part of me!” The song that really helped Smith find his confidence was “Friend Like Me.” Through his experiments in the recording studio, Smith was able to give the song an old-school hip-hop feel that left even Alan Menken in awe. “I started off this process fearful that I couldn’t add anything new to this character.” However, it was Smith’s experience working on the music of the film, that really helped him discover his voice. One of the main challenges for the actor was finding his own take on the Genie character that Robin Williams brought to life in the animated movie. "Disney magic is real! I love how these stories bring out your inner child and cause you to smile and appreciate the moments,” raved Smith.
#ALADDIN DISNEY WORLD MOVIE#
However, after yesterday’s hangout, it’s safe to say I’m (quite possibly) even more ecstatic to see the film! Here’s five things I learned about the creation of the film from the cast and crew that are sure to make you excited, too!Īladdin Was Will Smith’s First Disney Movie Ever!įor Smith, a longtime admirer of Disney films, getting to work on a film like Aladdin, was a dream come true!

I recently had the pleasure of spending the afternoon in beautiful (some might even say shining, shimmering) Beverly Hills with the talented group that included, in addition to Smith, legendary Disney composer Alan Menken and rising stars Mena Massoud (who plays Aladdin) and Naomi Scott (who plays Jasmine.)Īs a ‘90s Disney kid, being excited for a live-action adaptation of one of my favorite Disney animated flicks ever is basically in my DNA. And yet hearing Smith and other members of the cast and crew recount their experiences working on this production, one soon understands that these feelings are no exaggeration. At first glance, it might seem like quite the statement coming from someone of his caliber and filmography.

That’s how Will Smith - legendary actor, not to mention two-time Academy Award nominee and four-time Grammy winner - describes his time working on Aladdin, which is in theaters now. Get ready to enter a whole new world with Disney’s live-adaptation of Aladdin–in theaters now! This was the most joyful experience of my career.
