-Review and Photos by David Yeh

Disney’s popular Aladdin is back in the spotlight again with new toys to coincide with the live-action remake directed by Guy Ritchie. Playmates Toys does double duty on this property with toys representing both films, including the classic 1992 animated movie. Today we’ll specifically be looking at the letter with the Genie Interactive Figure. The toy retails for $19.99 and is available now. The Genie boasts over 35 phrases with moving eyes, head, and mouth. Is this toy right for you? Let’s find out…

The figure comes on a standard card and bubble with a “TRY ME!” area where you can “rub” the lamp”. Two phrases are uttered for the demo: “Your Wish is My Command!” and “Let’s Make Some Magic!,” but it seems that the same phrases are used even in standard mode.

Once out of the package and switched to “On,” the Genie comes alive with pseudo-familiar line: “The ever impressive, the long contained, often imitated but never duplicated GENIE OF THE LAMP!” When left alone, the Genie continues to spout out phrase after phrase with a decent Robin Williams sound-alike, however I do wish the quotes were directly from the Robin Williams animated film (hey, we’d settle for the sequels too). The lamp, forever fixed onto his left hand also lights up depending on the phrase, while Genie shakes his head back and forth while speaking. It’d be nice if the Genie only spoke when triggered, but because the figure never really stops talking, the “Off” switch certainly comes in handy.

You can also rub his belly (to see how ticklish he is) and his head to hear some different phrases, or lift his right arm up and down for a joke.

Younger kids are certain to the enjoy the Interactive Genie for its ‘toon accurate good looks and non-stop one-liners, however older collectors may be turned off by the toy’s lack of articulation and repetitive sound feature. 

The Genie Interactive Figure is available now where all Aladdin toys are found for $19.99.

Review and Photos by David Yeh
Review Samples Courtesy of Playmates Toys

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