Year: 1996
Runtime: 93 min
Language: English
A mischievous genie named Kazaam is freed in modern-day Manhattan when a young boy named Max inadvertently breaks an ancient seal. As Kazaam becomes Max's unlikely companion, they embark on a journey filled with wisecracks, musical numbers, and action sequences. They face challenges while searching for Kazaam's family and Max's own sense of belonging, all while evading dangerous gangsters seeking to exploit the genie's power.
Get a spoiler-free look at Kazaam (1996) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.
In the bustling streets of modern‑day Manhattan, a forgotten lamp hidden inside a battered boombox is shattered by a stray basketball, unleashing a charismatic and mischievous genie. The genie, Kazaam, instantly finds himself out of his ancient realm and thrust into the neon‑lit chaos of the city. He quickly discovers an unlikely ally in a 14‑year‑old boy navigating the tricky terrain of adolescence. Max is a kid trying to define himself amid school bullies, family upheaval, and the bewildering expectations of growing up in a world that never seems to pause.
The film’s tone skitters between cheeky humor and heartfelt rhythm, blending snap‑quick wisecracks with spontaneous musical numbers that feel as natural as a subway announcement. It’s a playground of high‑energy action where the ordinary meets the extraordinary; a simple bike ride can turn into a gravity‑defying stunt, and a wish‑granted snack shower becomes a city‑wide spectacle. The soundtrack pulses with hip‑hop beats, echoing both the genie’s ancient swagger and Max’s youthful swagger.
Beyond the laughs and lyrical interludes, the story hints at deeper quests. Kazaam is on a personal search for the family he left behind, while Max quietly wrestles with his own sense of belonging, trying to reconcile the fragments of his past with the possibilities of his future. Their partnership becomes a bridge between eras, cultures, and expectations, each learning from the other’s perspective while navigating the unpredictable rhythm of the city.
All the while, the duo must stay one step ahead of shadowy figures who sense the genie’s power could be turned to profit. These looming threats add a thread of tension that weaves through the comedy and music, suggesting that the adventure ahead will test both courage and friendship without ever losing the film’s playful, uplifting spirit.
Last Updated: August 10, 2025 at 13:31
Discover curated groups of movies connected by mood, themes, and story style. Browse collections built around emotion, atmosphere, and narrative focus to easily find films that match what you feel like watching right now.
Fantastical adventures where a magical being and a kid form an unlikely bond.If you enjoyed the dynamic between Max and Kazaam, you'll love these movies about kids forming unforgettable bonds with magical beings. Discover similar family adventures filled with fantastical fun, wisecracking companions, and touching stories about friendship and finding your place.
These narratives typically begin with a child discovering or releasing a magical entity, leading to a fast-paced series of adventures. The central conflict often involves both external threats wanting to exploit the magic and internal emotional struggles of the child, with the magical companion providing both comic relief and heartfelt support.
Movies are grouped here for their shared focus on the transformative friendship between a young protagonist and a fantastical guide. They blend whimsical, action-packed fun with a sincere emotional core, creating an uplifting yet bittersweet experience about the power of connection.
Stories where granting wishes teaches deeper lessons about family and self.Fans of Kazaam's blend of magic and heartfelt drama will enjoy these movies about the power and perils of wishes. Explore similar stories where magical solutions lead to personal discoveries about family, redemption, and what matters most in life.
The plot follows a protagonist who gains the ability to make wishes, initially pursuing superficial desires. The narrative arc involves learning that true fulfillment comes from emotional connections and personal growth, not magical shortcuts, often culminating in a resolution that values real-world relationships over fantastical power.
This thread collects movies that share a specific narrative pattern: using wish-fulfillment as a vehicle to explore themes of found family, redemption, and coming of age. They mix lighthearted fun with genuine emotional weight, resulting in a satisfying, character-driven experience.
Don't stop at just watching — explore Kazaam in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Kazaam is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.
Read a complete plot summary of Kazaam, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.
Track the full timeline of Kazaam with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.
Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Kazaam. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.
Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Kazaam: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.
Discover movies like Kazaam that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.
Kazaam (1996) Scene-by-Scene Movie Timeline
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