We're living in an era of exciting adaptations, and a fresh take on the classic Middle Eastern folktale, Aladdin, is on the horizon. Titled "Aladdin: The Monkey’s Paw," this new version is set to start production next month, and it promises to be a far cry from the beloved 1992 Disney adaptation.
This upcoming live-action film is described as a "dark, supernatural reimagining" of the original legend. It will feature a talented cast including Nick Sagar, Ricky Norwood, Montana Manning, and Bradley Stryker, who will also take on the roles of producer and director. The script is penned by Charley McDougall, and the film will be shot in the UK, which also serves as the setting for the story.
According to Deadline, the film's synopsis reveals that "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 film's team has a personal connection to this horror-infused narrative. The writer shared in a statement, "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 film remains the most iconic adaptation of the Aladdin story, the tale has been adapted numerous times in both animated and live-action formats, in English and other 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 no release date has been announced for this dark twist on a classic, fans are eagerly awaiting its premiere.
