We're entering an era brimming with fresh adaptations, and the latest on the horizon is a unique spin on the Middle Eastern folktale, Aladdin. Titled "Aladdin: The Monkey's Paw," this film is slated to begin production next month. But don't expect the light-hearted charm of the 1992 Disney classic; this is something entirely different.

This live-action adaptation promises a "dark, supernatural reimagining" of the timeless legend. 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, sets the stage for a chilling narrative. Filming is scheduled to take place in the UK, where the story is set.

According to Deadline, the film’s synopsis offers a glimpse into its eerie premise: “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 particular narrative, and its potential ties to horror, seem deeply personal to the film’s creative team. In a statement to the outlet, the film’s 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 cinematic version of the folktale, the story has seen numerous interpretations over the years, spanning both animated and live-action formats in various languages. The 2019 live-action remake, featuring Naomi Scott from "Smile 2," represents the most recent effort to modernize the legend.

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