Aladdin Gets a Horror Makeover in New Adaptation

We're entering an era brimming with fresh takes on classic tales, and the latest on the list is a new spin on the Middle Eastern folktale of Aladdin. Titled "Aladdin: The Monkey's Paw," this film is slated to begin production next month. But don't expect a rehash of the beloved 1992 Disney version; this adaptation promises something entirely different.

Dubbed as a "dark, supernatural reimagining," this live-action project will star Nick Sagar, Ricky Norwood, Montana Manning, and Bradley Stryker, who will also take on the roles of producer and director. The screenplay comes from Charley McDougall, and the film will be shot in the UK, where its story is set.

According to Deadline, the film's synopsis teases, "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."

This chilling narrative seems to hold a special place in the hearts of the film's creators. 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 story, the tale has seen numerous adaptations over the years, spanning both animated and live-action formats, and in various languages. The most recent was the 2019 live-action remake from Disney, featuring Naomi Scott from "Smile 2," bringing the legend into the modern era.

Although a release date for "Aladdin: The Monkey's Paw" has yet to be announced, the anticipation for this horror-infused take on a classic story is palpable. We can't wait to see how it unfolds.