Aladdin Gets a Horror Makeover in New Adaptation

We're entering an era brimming with fresh takes on classic tales, and the next exciting project on our radar is a new adaptation of the Middle Eastern folktale, Aladdin. Titled "Aladdin: The Monkey's Paw," this film is set to begin production next month, promising a stark departure from the beloved 1992 Disney version we all cherish.

This upcoming live-action film is being billed 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, penned by Charley McDougall, aims to delve into the darker corners of the Aladdin mythos. The film is slated to be shot in the UK, where the story is also set.

According to Deadline, the film’s synopsis teases a chilling narrative: "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 creative team behind this adaptation has a deeply personal connection to the story, as explained by the film’s writer in a statement to 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 tale, the story has been adapted numerous times in various forms, including both animated and live-action, and in multiple languages. The 2019 live-action remake by Disney, starring Naomi Scott from "Smile 2," is the latest attempt to modernize the legend.

Although no release date has been announced for this horror-infused take on the classic tale, the anticipation is palpable, and we're eager to see how this new interpretation unfolds.