The era of fresh reinterpretations continues, and another one is approaching. A new take on the Middle Eastern folktale Aladdin, titled Aladdin: The Monkey’s Paw, begins production next month. However, it’s decidedly not the beloved, family-friendly Disney version from 1992 that audiences remember.
This live-action adaptation is described as a "dark, supernatural reimagining" of the original legend. The cast features Nick Sagar, Ricky Norwood, Montana Manning, and Bradley Stryker, with Stryker also producing and directing from a script by Charley McDougall. Filming will take place in the UK, where the story is set.
Deadline shared the film's official synopsis: "A modern-day Londoner, Aladdin, inherits an ancient monkey’s paw said to grant wishes. He soon learns that every desire comes with a devastating cost. As those around him fall prey to its curse, he must face a growing evil—and the demonic force that feeds on every wish granted."
The creative team behind the project emphasized a personal connection to the horror elements. "Our goal was always to explore horror from a personal perspective—not just the scares, but the profound human toll of wishes," the writer stated. "This story has lingered with us, and now it's time to set it free. The most effective horror films stay with you long after they end. This narrative achieves that. It's sharp, emotionally charged, and builds dread masterfully. We're crafting more than just another horror movie; we're building a world around an iconic concept. The paw, its mythology, the characters—everything is intricately woven together."
Disney's 1992 animated classic remains the most famous and cherished film adaptation of the tale. However, the story has seen numerous cinematic iterations over the years, in both animated and live-action formats across various languages. The most recent major attempt was Disney's 2019 live-action remake, starring Naomi Scott of 'Smile 2' fame.
While no release date has been announced for this horrifying twist on a classic, our curiosity is definitely piqued for its eventual arrival.
