"Aladdin's New Adaptation Turns to Horror"

We're entering a new era of adaptations, and the latest one to catch our attention is a fresh take on the Middle Eastern folktale, Aladdin. Titled "Aladdin: The Monkey's Paw," this upcoming film will begin production next month, promising a departure from the beloved 1992 Disney version we all cherish.

This live-action adaptation is described as a "dark, supernatural reimagining" of the classic tale. 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 filming will occur in the UK, where the story is set.

According to Deadline, the film's synopsis reveals a gripping 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 film's creative team has a personal connection to this story, which they intend to explore through the lens of horror. In a statement to the outlet, the writer 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 tale, the story has been adapted into various films over the years, in both animated and live-action formats, across different languages. The most recent adaptation was the 2019 live-action remake by Disney, which starred Naomi Scott, known for her role in Smile 2.

No release date has been set for this intriguing horror twist on a classic, but fans are eagerly awaiting its arrival.