We're living in an era brimming with fresh takes on classic tales, and the latest to join this trend is a new adaptation of the Middle Eastern folktale Aladdin, titled "Aladdin: The Monkey's Paw." This film is slated to start production next month, and it promises a stark departure from the beloved 1992 Disney version that many of us grew up with.
This live-action adaptation is being promoted as a "dark, supernatural reimagining" of the legendary story. It will feature an ensemble 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, sets the film in the UK, where production will occur.
According to Deadline, the film's synopsis offers a chilling take: "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 adaptation remains the most iconic and cherished version of the Aladdin tale, the story has seen numerous adaptations over the years, ranging from animated to live-action, and in various languages. The 2019 live-action remake of Disney’s original, featuring Naomi Scott from "Smile 2," is the latest effort to modernize the legend.
Though a release date for this horror twist on a classic has not been announced, the curiosity surrounding "Aladdin: The Monkey's Paw" ensures eager anticipation for its eventual debut.
