"Aladdin Gets a Horror Makeover in New Adaptation"

We're in the midst of an era brimming with fresh adaptations, and yet another intriguing project is on the horizon. "Aladdin: The Monkey's Paw," a new take on the classic Middle Eastern folktale, is set to begin production next month. However, don't expect a repeat of the beloved 1992 Disney version of Aladdin; this rendition promises to be quite different.

This live-action film is being billed as a "dark, supernatural reimagining" of the original story. It will feature a talented cast including Nick Sagar, Ricky Norwood, Montana Manning, and Bradley Stryker, who will also serve as producer and director. The screenplay comes from the pen of Charley McDougall, and the UK will serve as the backdrop for the entire production.

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

This adaptation seems to hold a special significance for the filmmakers. In a statement to Deadline, 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 version remains the most iconic adaptation of the Aladdin tale, the story has been adapted into film numerous times, in both animated and live-action formats, and in various languages. The most recent adaptation was the 2019 live-action remake by Disney, which starred Naomi Scott, known for her role in "Smile 2."

Although no release date has been announced for this horror-infused take on the classic tale, the anticipation is already building, and fans are eager to see how this dark twist unfolds.