People wanna be free, right? Heck, even genies wanna be free, according to Aladdin. This movie is all about folks breaking free from their bonds and doing things their own way. Aladdin is poor, but he hopes for a better life. Jasmine is tired of being told what to do and who to marry. And the Genie? He'd just like to be released from an eternity of servitude. Is that too much to ask?
Questions about Freedom and Confinement
- Toward the beginning of the movie, Jasmine releases her birds from their cage. Can you think of any other symbols of freedom or confinement in Aladdin?
- What do you imagine the Genie's life has been like? What's his backstory? What will he do after being freed?
- Do you think the comparison between Aladdin and Jasmine is fair? Are both of them equally trapped by their circumstances? Does one of them have it worse? Why or why not?
Chew on This
Take a peek at these thesis statements. Agree or disagree?
It's the Genie's side story about getting his freedom that becomes the vehicle for vanquishing the villain.
Jasmine is similar to other modern Disney princesses who grew up in royal households, such as Ariel and Merida, in that she's defiant and determined to make her own way in a repressive regal setting.