The Making of Aladdin: A Whole New World

The Making of Aladdin: A Whole New World offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the creation of one of Disney's most beloved animated films. Hosted by the esteemed actor John Rhys-Davies, known for his roles in iconic franchises such as The Lord of the Rings and Indiana Jones series, this made-for-TV documentary provides an in-depth examination of the production process that went into crafting Aladdin. The documentary begins by highlighting the origins of the film, detailing how Walt Disney Feature Animation drew inspiration from the timeless tale of Aladdin, a classic story from One Thousand and One Nights (also known as Arabian Nights). The film's writers, Ron Clements and John Musker, discuss how they approached the project, seeking to create a more modern take on the original tale while maintaining its essential spirit and charm. As the documentary delves deeper, it focuses on the creative team behind Aladdin, including directors Clements and Musker, and the talented voice cast that brought the characters to life. Robin Williams, the late, legendary comedic actor, discusses his approach to voicing the role of Genie, the wisecracking, shape-shifting sidekick to Aladdin. Williams' infectious energy and creativity are on full display as he shares his method for developing the character's humor, depth, and complexity. The film's animation process is also extensively explored in the documentary, shedding light on the groundbreaking techniques used to create the movie's vivid, Middle Eastern-inspired visuals. The animation team's use of computer-generated imagery, or CGI, was a major innovation at the time, allowing for unprecedented levels of detail and realism in the film's environments, characters, and effects. The filmmakers and cast members also share their experiences working together, highlighting the camaraderie and enthusiasm that drove the project to completion. Jodi Benson, the voice of Princess Jasmine, discusses her character's role in the story, while Scott Weinger, the voice of Aladdin, shares his experiences working with the voice cast and the animation team. Throughout the documentary, viewers are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Aladdin's memorable songs, including "A Whole New World," "Friend Like Me," and "Prince Ali." These iconic musical numbers were written by Alan Menken and Tim Rice, with Menken also composing the film's score. The documentary features exclusive interviews with the songwriters, who discuss their creative process and the challenges they faced in crafting the film's memorable soundtrack. One of the most intriguing aspects of The Making of Aladdin: A Whole New World is its examination of the film's cultural significance. Director Clements and other team members discuss how they incorporated Middle Eastern and North African cultures into the film's design, music, and story, aiming to create a authentic and respectful portrayal of these rich traditions. The documentary also delves into the challenges faced by the production team, including the grueling animation schedule and the need to stay on budget. These struggles, however, did not deter the team, who persevered and pushed themselves to create something truly special. Ultimately, The Making of Aladdin: A Whole New World is a heartwarming and informative documentary that offers a comprehensive look at the making of this Disney classic. Through its in-depth interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and engaging narrative, the film provides a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind one of animation's most beloved tales.