"Aladdin Gets a Horror Makeover in New Adaptation"

We are entering an era of fresh adaptations, and the next one on our radar is a new take on the Middle Eastern folktale, Aladdin. Titled "Aladdin: The Monkey's Paw," this film will begin production next month. However, this isn't the 1992 Disney version we all cherish; instead, it's a darker, supernatural reimagining.

This live-action adaptation is set to feature a stellar 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, promises a thrilling experience. Filming will take place in the UK, which also serves as the film's setting.

Deadline has shared the film's intriguing synopsis: “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 story, particularly in its horror elements. 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 version remains the most iconic adaptation of the Aladdin tale, the story has seen numerous translations into film, both animated and live-action, across various languages. The 2019 live-action remake, featuring Naomi Scott from "Smile 2," is the latest effort to modernize this classic legend.

Though no release date has been announced for this horror-infused twist on Aladdin, anticipation is high, and fans are eager to see how this dark reimagining unfolds.