If you haven’t heard yet, yes, there will be a live-action adaptation of Disney’s Aladdin, and it’s possible that Will Smith will voice the Genie, as the actor is in early talks with the studio.
We previously reported about an Aladdin remake called Genies, which will revolve around the Genie, but this will be a separate project.
The live-action adaptation of Aladdin will be directed by Guy Ritchie, with a script written by John August. The remake comes at a time when Disney classics are given the live-action treatment, like The Lion King, The Jungle Book, Cinderella, Mulan, and Beauty and the Beast. The ones that have been released have been met with critical success.
Aladdin tells the story of a street urchin named Aladdin who discovers a magic lamp that releases a genie that will grant him three wishes.
If Smith will be given the role of the Genie, he will take over for Robin Williams, who voiced the character in the 1992 animated feature. The film was so well-received that it is considered the most successful film of 1992, and won two Academy Awards for Best Music (Original Score) and Best Music (Original Song) for “A Whole New World,” which Lea Salonga performed.
The roles of Aladdin and Princess Jasmine will reportedly go to up-and-coming actors.
The most important news: the Guy Ritchie remake will retain the musical elements of the film, and producer Dan Lin wants a diverse cast.
Production is set to begin in July, with a wrap-up in 2018.
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