It's a golden era for fresh adaptations, and another intriguing project is on the way. A new take on the Middle Eastern folktale, Aladdin, titled *Aladdin: The Monkey’s Paw*, starts filming next month. However, this version is a far cry from the beloved 1992 Disney classic we all remember.
This live-action reimagining is being described as a "supernatural dark retelling" of the original legend. The cast will feature Nick Sagar, Ricky Norwood, Montana Manning, and Bradley Stryker, who is also producing and directing from a screenplay by Charley McDougall. Filming will occur in the UK, the story's primary setting.
According to Deadline, the film's synopsis states: "Aladdin, a modern Londoner, inherits an ancient monkey's paw rumored to grant wishes. He soon learns that every wish comes with a devastating personal toll. As the curse claims those around him, he must face an escalating evil—and the demonic presence that feeds on every granted desire."
The filmmakers have a personal connection to this particular horror interpretation. "Our goal was to explore horror on a personal level—focusing not just on frights, but the human consequences of getting what you wish for," the writer shared in a statement. "This tale has been on our minds for some time, and now it’s ready to be unleashed. The most effective horror stays with you, and that’s precisely what this story delivers. It’s poignant, sharp, and deeply unsettling in the best possible way. This is more than a standard horror movie; we're creating a whole universe around an iconic concept, complete with its mythology, the cursed paw, and a rich cast of characters."
While Disney’s 1992 animated film remains the most famous and adored cinematic version of the folktale, the story has seen numerous film iterations over the years. These include both animated and live-action movies in various languages. The 2019 live-action Disney remake, featuring Naomi Scott from *Smile 2*, represents the most recent mainstream effort to update the legend.
No release date has been announced for this horror-infused classic, but our curiosity is definitely piqued for its arrival.
