Toss in some very memorable music to enhance those strong points and "Aladdin" easily became a classic for a new generation of Disney fans. It has that special something that just seems to be missing from the last few efforts like "Brother Bear" and "Home on the Range." It may not break new ground, but most importantly, it's just fun to watch regardless of your age. (***** out of *****)

A new digital restoration powers this 2-disc edition and it's one of the best from the studio yet. There are some problems, notably some annoying edge enhancement and occasionally (rare) out of control compression issues, but for the most part, they nailed it. Every frame of animation comes through in gorgeous detail with this 1.66:1 widescreen transfer. There are no problems with the print, not even a small speck. It has obviously been kept well preserved. Kudos to Disney for what is probably their best non-CG transfer yet. (****)

"Aladdin" contains another one of the studio's "enhanced surround" mixes ("Lion King" had one as well). I'll have to admit I'm not very familiar with the technology, but it sounds great. It can be a bit obvious that the sounds coming from the rear channels are a bit forced and have some added emphasis put on them, but it creates a much more impressive sound field. Those speakers never get drowned out in the action. Bass is strong were it should be (the escape from the cave will likely get plenty of play time from audio buffs) and none of the dialogue is lost. The standard 5.1 mix sounds just about the same, though the rear speakers won't get as much work. (*****)

Though you can purchase this set by itself, die-hards will want to look at the collectors set. Not only does it come with a hard bound book explaining the restoration process, interviews with the creators, and the movie's storyline, you'll also get a nice packet of matted sketches. Everything comes in a thick box that could probably take quite a bit of punishment in case the kids got a hold of it. That's the way the movies should be presented.

But that's getting too far ahead. Disc one contains a surprising amount of features. First is a deleted song, "Proud of Your Boy," performed by American Idol winner Clay Aiken. You can watch it with the original storyboards to get an idea of how the song would have played out. There is also a full music video for the song with Clay recording the song. "Music and More" contains some information on that song along with behind the scenes footage. You'll also hear a new version of "A Whole New World" performed by the "were-on-TV-way-too-much-these-days" duo of Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey.