Kazaam is misguided. Its script offers a generic protagonist, superficial drama, blunt exposition, little setup/payoff, cringey humor, forced relationships, minimal character development, no logic, and aimless threads. However, the biggest flaw is its preoccupation with showcasing Shaq's middling rapping skills, which sidelines the genie aspects of this genie movie. Meanwhile, Shaq is a decent actor for an athlete, but that's faint praise and the cast around him is substandard. Ultimately, Kazaam could've been simply cliche, but its dual intentions make it a hot mess. There's no emotional depth, excitement, or coordination, making the entire experience a chore.
Technically, Kazaam is careless. Its sound adds some mysticism and echoes, but is often thin and corny. The effects use a lot of CGI, but it's all weird and distracting. The production design is surprisingly dull, displaying minimal aesthetics and boring warehouses. The editing is disjointed and awkward, creating confusing space and no momentum. Its cinematography is ugly, bland, flat, and unclear, utilizing minor enhancement techniques. Finally, the diegetic rap music is both mediocre and a direct deterrent. Overall, Kazaam is a thoughtless and shameless scam to promote Shaq's next career aspiration. There's nothing here but cynicism and embarrassment.
Writing: 2/10
Direction: 1/10
Cinematography: 3/10
Acting: 2/10
Editing: 3/10
Sound: 4/10
Score/Soundtrack: 2/10
Production Design: 3/10
Casting: 2/10
Effects: 3/10
Overall Score: 2.5/10
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