New Aladdin Adaptation Embraces Horror Theme

We're living in an era where classic tales are being reimagined in fresh, exciting ways, and the upcoming film, Aladdin: The Monkey’s Paw, is no exception. Set to commence production next month, this isn't the whimsical 1992 Disney version we're familiar with. Instead, it promises to be a dark and supernatural take on the Middle Eastern folktale.

The live-action film will feature 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, reflecting the movie's setting.

According to Deadline, the plot follows a modern-day Londoner named Aladdin, who inherits an ancient monkey’s paw rumored to grant wishes. However, he soon learns that each wish comes with a devastating price. As those around him succumb to the paw's curse, Aladdin must face a rising evil and the demonic force that thrives on the wishes made.

The concept of intertwining horror with this iconic tale seems to be deeply personal for the filmmaking team. 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 adaptation remains the most cherished version of the Aladdin story, numerous adaptations have graced the screen in both animated and live-action formats across various languages. The most recent adaptation was Disney's 2019 live-action remake, featuring Naomi Scott from Smile 2.

Although a release date for Aladdin: The Monkey’s Paw has yet to be announced, the anticipation is palpable. We're eager to see how this horror-infused twist on a classic tale unfolds.