Will Smith premieres live-action 'Aladdin' in London

At the movie Aladdin's European premiere in London, Will Smith said taking on the role of Genie in Disney's new live-action remake was a difficult choice.

"It was definitely a brainer. It was not a no-brainer," said Smith. "I was really terrified at first. You have to be careful with these types of films that mark people's childhoods. There is a nostalgia to this film. And Robin Williams really created something that was revolutionary. So for me, I was, I wanted to do it in a way that was an homage to Robin but at the same time, finding a new in."

Guy Ritchie, Mena Massoud, Will Smith, Naomi Scott and Marwan Kenzari arrive at the UK premiere of Aladdin in London's Leicester Square on May 9, 2019. [Photo: IC]

Walking the red carpet alongside Smith was Naomi Scott, who stars as Princess Jasmine.

"I gravitated towards her because of her strength and because I felt like I saw myself in her, which I think is really powerful," She said. "Feminism is about fighting for the freedom of choice. She's fighting for the liberty of her people. She wants to lead her people. And I think that's what's brilliant. She's speaking out even though she knows that she might get shut down or she might get some backlash. And I think that that's so courageous. And I think it's wonderful."

The beloved story features new recordings of the original songs, as well as new music composed specially for the film.

The film hits U.K. theaters May 22, following in the U.S. on May 24.

(Story includes material sourced from AP