Many remember Aladdin as a kind-hearted poor man with a monkey on his shoulder. His story is one of the brightest Eastern fairy tales, where wishes come true, good triumphs, and the lamp becomes a doorway to wonder. But in 2025, everything will change: Empire Studios is launching a dark version of this legend — the horror film Aladdin: The Monkey’s Paw.
Filming will begin in May in the UK, and audiences are promised a truly sinister reimagining. This time, the story follows a modern-day Londoner named Aladdin who inherits an ancient monkey’s paw. According to legend, the relic grants wishes — but the price is steep. Every wish triggers a series of tragedies and brutal consequences.
Nick Sagar will play the lead role, joined by Ricky Norwood, Montana Manning, and director Bradley Stryker, known for the horror film Terrifier 3. According to the creators, the film aims to be more than just another scary movie — it’s intended to be an emotional ordeal. With each new wish, Aladdin sinks deeper into a web of demonic power that feeds on human weakness.
"We always wanted to explore horror through a personal lens — not just the scares, but the human cost of wishes," says screenwriter Charlie MacDougall. "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."
According to the filmmakers, Aladdin: The Monkey’s Paw will explore how the brightest dreams can turn to evil, and magic can become a curse. So forget the genie with a golden heart. This new Aladdin is no longer the same — and this world isn’t ready for what it wishes for.
