As Disney prepares to release several live-action remakes of animated classics, Aladdin is no exception. Following the success of recent adaptations such as The Jungle Book (2016) and Beauty and the Beast (2017), Disney fans will experience a “whole new world” as the love story of Aladdin and Princess Jasmine comes to life once again.
The 2019 reimagining, based on the story “Aladdin and the Magic Lamp” from The Book of One Thousand and One Nights, will feature not only the original classic tunes of its 1992 predecessor, but also new music from composer Alan Menken.
The film stars Mena Massoud in the title role, alongside Naomi Scott as Princess Jasmine and Will Smith as the Genie. Disney has yet to release any teaser clips or trailers.
Before its anticipated release in the spring, The Hollywood Reporter has compiled a cheat sheet of everything you need to know about the upcoming film.
Prior to the start of filming, Disney faced challenges to lock down cast members to portray the main characters. In 2017, a worldwide casting call began for the lead roles of Aladdin and Princess Jasmine, in search of diverse actors who could sing as well as act. After talk of potential leads from big stars to total unknowns, Aladdin finally found its cast.
Mena Massoud: Plays the titular protagonist, Aladdin. Known around the streets of Agrabah as a scoundrel and a thief, the poor but warmhearted Aladdin impersonates a prince in order to win the heart of the beautiful Princess Jasmine.
Naomi Scott: Plays Princess Jasmine, the daughter of the Sultan who wishes to break free from the confines of the royal palace.
Will Smith: Plays the beloved Genie, voiced by the late Robin Williams in the 1992 animated version. At this year’s CinemaCon, Smith hinted that his interpretation of the role will be “a little bit Hitch, a little Fresh Prince and a whole lot of attitude.” While the cast has assured the public that the film certainly won’t replace Robin Williams in any way, Smith will put his own spin on the wish-granter.
(Excerpt) Read more in: The Hollywood Reporter