1996 - Kazaam

I Hate Critics Movie Review Podcast · Aug 6, 2026 · 1h 7m

Kazaam

Directed by Paul Michael Glaser

Starring Shaquille O'Neal

Kazaam follows Max, a troubled boy who accidentally frees a wisecracking, 3,000-year-old genie from a boombox. Granted three wishes, Max navigates bullies, family issues, and his estranged father's shady dealings while Kazaam becomes both magical helper and unlikely friend. Despite its fantasy premise and kid-oriented humor, critics found it formulaic with weak acting and writing, though some younger viewers may still enjoy its lighthearted tone.