Live-Action ‘Aladdin’ Prequel in Development at Disney

The next film in Disney’s exceedingly (and ridiculously) large slate of live-action remakes will explore the origins of an iconic character from a well-known Disney film.

The Hollywood Reporter broke the news this week that the studio is developing Genies, a live-action, comedic-adventure film that will function as a prequel to the story of the classic 1992 animated film Aladdin.

The film is scripted by Damian Shannon and Mark Swift, with Tripp Vinson (who’s also developing Prince Charming for Disney) on board to produce through his Vinson Films banner.

Genies will take place in the realm of the titular genies and will reveal how Aladdin’s genie was sealed in the lamp.

Surprisingly (or unsurprisingly, depending on one’s view), Disney appears to have high hopes for Genies, as the studio plans for the project to eventually lead into a live-action Aladdin film.

Aladdin‘s Genie is best known as one of the voice roles of the late Robin Williams.

Alas, this is the thirteenth film in Disney’s slate of live-action remakes. Something tells me that we might get to know more about these films during next month’s D23 Expo.

The list goes as follows (and includes two sequels): The Jungle Book, Pete’s Dragon, Beauty and the Beast, Alice in Wonderland 2, Dumbo, Mulan, Winnie the Pooh, Pinocchio, Tink, Night on Bald Mountain, Maleficent 2, Prince Charming, and Genies.

What do you think? What are your thoughts on Genies?

Edited by: Hannah Wilkes