"Aladdin Gets a Horror Makeover in New Adaptation"

We're stepping into an exciting era of reimagined classics, and the next on the list is a new take on the Middle Eastern folktale, Aladdin. Titled "Aladdin: The Monkey’s Paw," this project is set to begin production next month, and it's steering far away from the beloved 1992 Disney adaptation.

This upcoming live-action film promises a "dark, supernatural reimagining" of the legendary story. The cast includes Nick Sagar, Ricky Norwood, Montana Manning, and Bradley Stryker, who will also take on the roles of producer and director. The script, penned by Charley McDougall, will be brought to life in the UK, where the film is set.

According to Deadline, the plot delves into darker territory: "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 has a deeply personal connection to this story, as explained by the writer: "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 Aladdin, the tale has been adapted numerous times in both animated and live-action formats across various languages. The 2019 live-action remake, featuring Naomi Scott of "Smile 2," is the latest attempt to modernize the legend.

Although a release date for "Aladdin: The Monkey’s Paw" hasn't been announced, the curiosity surrounding this horror-infused twist on a classic tale ensures it will be eagerly anticipated by audiences.