We're entering an exciting era of new adaptations, and the latest to catch our eye is a fresh take on the classic Middle Eastern folktale, Aladdin. Titled Aladdin: The Monkey's Paw, this project is set to kick off production next month. But don't expect a repeat of the beloved 1992 Disney version; this is something entirely different.
This live-action film is described as a "dark, supernatural reimagining" of the original legend. The cast includes Nick Sagar, Ricky Norwood, Montana Manning, and Bradley Stryker, who will also take on the roles of producer and director. The screenplay, penned by Charley McDougall, sets the stage in the UK, where the film will be shot.
According to Deadline, the film's synopsis promises a thrilling twist: "A modern-day Londoner, Aladdin, inherits an ancient monkey's paw believed to grant wishes, only to discover that every desire comes at a soul-crushing price. As those around him fall victim to its curse, he must confront a growing evil — and the demonic force that feeds on every wish made."
The concept of blending horror with this timeless story seems to be deeply personal for the film's team. The writer shared with the outlet, "We always wanted to explore horror through a personal lens — not just the scares, but the human cost of wishes. This story's been haunting us for a while, and it's time to let it loose. The best horror films haunt you long after the credits roll. That's what this story does. It's sharp, emotional, and full of dread in all the right ways. We're not just making another horror film — we're building a world around a truly iconic concept. The paw, the mythology, the characters — it's all there."
While Disney's 1992 animated adaptation remains the most iconic and cherished version of the Aladdin story, the tale has seen numerous adaptations over the years, spanning both animated and live-action formats across various languages. The 2019 live-action remake, featuring Naomi Scott from Smile 2, marks the latest effort to modernize the legend.
Although a release date for this horror-infused take on Aladdin hasn't been announced, anticipation is already building. We'll be eagerly waiting to see how this dark reimagining unfolds.
