We're stepping into an era of fresh adaptations, and the next one on the list is a new take on the classic Middle Eastern folktale, Aladdin. Titled "Aladdin: The Monkey's Paw," this film is set to begin production next month, and it's a far cry from the beloved 1992 Disney version we all know.
This upcoming live-action adaptation is being described as a "dark, supernatural reimagining" of the original story. It will feature a cast including Nick Sagar, Ricky Norwood, Montana Manning, and Bradley Stryker, who will also take on the roles of producer and director. The screenplay is penned by Charley McDougall, and the entire production will be filmed in the UK, where the movie is also set.
Deadline has shared the film’s synopsis, which teases, “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 horror theme of this adaptation seems to be deeply personal for the filmmakers. The writer, in a statement to the outlet, shared, “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 version of the Aladdin story, the tale has been adapted into numerous films over the years, in both animated and live-action formats, and in various languages. The most recent adaptation was the 2019 live-action remake by Disney, which starred Naomi Scott, known for her role in Smile 2.
Although a release date for this horror-infused take on the classic hasn't been announced yet, the anticipation is high, and fans are eager to see how this dark twist unfolds.