Aladdin Gets a Horror Makeover in New Adaptation

We're 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 isn't the whimsical 1992 Disney version we're familiar with; instead, it's a dark, supernatural reimagining of the classic legend. Production is set to kick off next month in the UK, where the film will also be set.

The cast includes Nick Sagar, Ricky Norwood, Montana Manning, and Bradley Stryker, with Stryker also taking on the roles of producer and director. The script comes from Charley McDougall, promising a thrilling experience.

According to Deadline, the film's synopsis hints at a chilling narrative: "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 seems deeply connected to this story, particularly its horror elements. In a statement to the outlet, the writer expressed their intent to explore horror through a personal lens, focusing not only on the scares but also on 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 folktale, Aladdin has been adapted into various films over the years, in both animated and live-action formats, and in multiple languages. The 2019 live-action remake, which featured Naomi Scott from "Smile 2," represents the most recent effort to modernize the legend.

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