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"New Aladdin Adaptation Embraces Horror Genre"

by Noah May 06,2025

We're entering an era of fresh adaptations, and the next one to hit the screens is a new take on the classic Middle Eastern folktale, Aladdin. Dubbed "Aladdin: The Monkey's Paw," this film is set to begin production next month. But don't expect the light-hearted adventure from the 1992 Disney version; this adaptation promises something darker and more supernatural.

This live-action reimagining will feature a cast including Nick Sagar, Ricky Norwood, Montana Manning, and Bradley Stryker, who will also take on the roles of producer and director. The script is penned by Charley McDougall, and filming will occur in the UK, where the story is set.

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According to Deadline, the film's synopsis reads, "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 is deeply connected to this narrative, especially its horror elements. In a statement to the outlet, the writer shared, "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 beloved version of the Aladdin story, the tale has been adapted into numerous films over the years, in both animated and live-action formats, and in various languages. The most recent adaptation was the 2019 live-action remake, featuring Naomi Scott, known for her role in Smile 2.

Although a release date for this dark twist on a classic has not been announced, anticipation is high, and fans are eager to see how this new vision unfolds.