The costumes are stunning, as if the charismatic Smith needed anything more to make him shine in the movie. His witty take on the genie, brought into the modern idiom, is hard to resist.

Of course, it is the usual love story between the pauper and the princess with the stunningly beautiful Naomi Scott as the Sultan's daughter Princess Jasmine. Her bell-like vocals are gorgous and Massoud holds his own when they harmonise.

The live action melds with CGI generated backgrounds of flaming caves, dolphins skimming through the sea, pet tigers and of course the floating carpet.

Add a cute monkey, an evil meddler and the homage to the Disney animated version which starred Robin Williams as Genie and you have a recipe for success. It is directed by Guy Ritchie, who was attracted to the idea of making a basically children's movie which adults could also enjoy.