"Genie" (2023) is an attempt at a fairy-tale comedy that, unfortunately, misses the mark on nearly every level. The plot, which revolves around a workaholic man seeking the aid of a magical genie to win back his family before Christmas, sounds charming in theory. However, in practice, it's as if the script was written by a committee of people who have never experienced joy or human emotions. The humor is so forced and predictable that you can almost hear the strained creaking of the joke machine as it churns out one tired gag after another. The genie, meant to be the highlight of the film, comes off more like a budget Halloween costume than a mystical being, further hampering any chance of magic or wonder.
The performances are as lackluster as the plot. The lead, who shall remain nameless to spare his future career prospects, delivers his lines with the enthusiasm of someone reading a microwave manual. His quest to win back his family is about as heartwarming as a corporate tax return. The supporting cast doesn't fare much better, with performances ranging from "I'm just here for the paycheck" to "I thought this was a rehearsal." The chemistry between the characters is non-existent, making their emotional journeys as believable as a two-dollar bill.
To add insult to injury, the film's attempt at a heartwarming Christmas message is as subtle as a sledgehammer. The 'family first' moral is hammered home with such clumsy, heavy-handedness that you half expect the characters to turn to the camera and give a public service announcement. The special effects, which could have been the film's saving grace, are reminiscent of a mid-2000s video game cutscene - and not in a charming, retro way. In conclusion, "Genie" is a film that, much like its magical protagonist, should have stayed in the bottle. If you're looking for a festive family comedy, you're better off watching literally anything else.
The performances are as lackluster as the plot. The lead, who shall remain nameless to spare his future career prospects, delivers his lines with the enthusiasm of someone reading a microwave manual. His quest to win back his family is about as heartwarming as a corporate tax return. The supporting cast doesn't fare much better, with performances ranging from "I'm just here for the paycheck" to "I thought this was a rehearsal." The chemistry between the characters is non-existent, making their emotional journeys as believable as a two-dollar bill.
To add insult to injury, the film's attempt at a heartwarming Christmas message is as subtle as a sledgehammer. The 'family first' moral is hammered home with such clumsy, heavy-handedness that you half expect the characters to turn to the camera and give a public service announcement. The special effects, which could have been the film's saving grace, are reminiscent of a mid-2000s video game cutscene - and not in a charming, retro way. In conclusion, "Genie" is a film that, much like its magical protagonist, should have stayed in the bottle. If you're looking for a festive family comedy, you're better off watching literally anything else.