DVD Corner

Genie Blu-ray Review

“Genie” is a not so magical Christmas movie. 

Released on Peacock in 2023, “Genie” is a remake of the British TV film “Bernard And The Genie.” The New York Christmastime set story revolves around Bernard- an overworked auction house worker whose job keeps him from his daughter Eve’s life events and his wife (Julie). After coming home late and flustered, a disappointed Julie takes Eve to get some time away from Bernard. Worse still, Bernard is fired from his job the following day. Lost and lonely, Bernard gets a miracle after he rubs a magic antique jewelry box that unleashes a genie named Flora. Flora (who has been inside the box for at least 2,000 years) grants Bernard unlimited wishes. Even though he can’t wish to change people, Bernard hopes he can repair things with his family, but his wishes might also land him in hot water.

Directed by Sam Boyd and written by Richard Curtis (who is no stranger to holiday fare having written “Love, Actually”), “Genie” essentially plays like a modern day “Aladdin” set at Christmas. It’s a cookie cutter genie story that is unlikely to become a Christmas classic. The comedy is generally lazy (the Tom Cruise, magic carpet and “Miss New Booty” bits are especially cringe worthy), there’s missed opportunities galore in terms of storytelling and the fish out of water comedic potential with Flora, the Mona Lisa bit feels like a shoehorned in conflict which resolves all too easily and the ending is as saccharine as can be. You’re left wanting more ingenuity.

The only reason the movie is remotely watchable is due to Melissa McCarthy who is utterly charming as the personable genie Flora (although it would be so much more rewarding to see her take on deeper roles like with “Can You Ever Forgive Me?”). Paapa Essiedu is likable in the lead role as Bernard but he plays it a bit too serious. Granted, he has real chemistry with McCarthy and lets her do the heavy lifting comedy wise, but it would have been nice to see him show more personality. Alan Cumming amuses in a small role as a snooty millionaire. 

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.85:1 1080p. How does it look? A quality hi-def transfer with crisp colors. 

Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? The 5.1 track does the job. 

No extras.

November 11, 2024 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Christmas Movie, Genie Blu-ray Review, Genie Movie, Melissa McCarthy