A New Adaptation of Aladdin Is On The Way — And This Time, They're Going Full Horror

We're entering an era of fresh adaptations, and the latest to hit the scene is a new take on the Middle Eastern folktale of Aladdin. Titled "Aladdin: The Monkey's Paw," this film is slated to start production next month. However, don't expect it to follow in the footsteps of the beloved 1992 Disney version.

This upcoming live-action film promises a "dark, supernatural reimagining" of the classic tale. The cast includes 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, sets the story in the UK, where filming will occur.

According to Deadline, the film's plot centers on Aladdin, a modern-day Londoner who inherits an ancient monkey's paw believed to grant wishes. However, he soon learns that every wish comes with a devastating cost. As the people around him succumb to the curse, Aladdin must face a rising evil and the demonic force that thrives on each wish made.

The film's creators have a personal connection to this story and its horror elements. 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 version remains the most iconic adaptation of the Aladdin story, numerous films have brought this folktale to life in both animated and live-action formats, in English and other languages. The most recent attempt was the 2019 live-action remake, which featured Naomi Scott, known for her role in "Smile 2."

Although a release date for "Aladdin: The Monkey's Paw" hasn't been announced yet, anticipation is high for this chilling reinterpretation of a classic tale.