A review for the 2 Aladdin direct-to-video sequels, released for the first time on DVD (curiously, as a double pack), is now online at Ultimate Disney. “These are undoubtedly direct-to-video sequels, but as Disney’s first forays into this domain, they’re neither as schlocky as some of the bottom-rung follow-ups we’ve seen since nor as ambitious and satisfying as some of the better, more recent output. The stories show some thought and skill, even if the low-budget animation wears a lack of craftsmanship.”

The site has also reported several interesting bits of news on the Disney DVD front recently; Pocahontas‘ oft-delayed 2-disc Masterpiece Edition (now dubbed the ’10th Anniversary Edition’) has finally had a release date set for it – May 3rd, 2005. “While no formal press releases has been issued, international releases of this set have clued us in on what to expect.” No word thus far on the long-awaited Lilo & Stitch 2-disc Special Edition, although with the direct-to-video sequel Stitch Has A Glitch to come out this autumn, the original film’s Special Edition release would likely be released around the same time. Some preview screencaps from the sequel can be seen at the Ultimate Disney forum here. Two other sequels can be expected for this year: “The Emperor’s New Groove follow-up Kronk’s New Groove is expected before the year’s end. Tarzan II, a ‘midquel’ set during Tarzan’s youth in the jungle, is slated for Summer 2005.” Title logos for all three sequels can currently be seen on Ultimate Disney’s main page.