‘Aladdin’ Live-Action Film Updates: Prequel's plot to focus on realm of genies; Filmmakers remember beloved genie Robin Williams

By Staff Writer

Sep 01, 2015 12:23 PM EDT

The upcoming live-action adaptation 'Aladdin' is given the running title 'Genies' and will focus on the realm of the supernatural beings trapped in lamps. It is said to be a prequel to the animated musical released back in 1992. Filmmakers, cast and crew of the first film gathered in Disney's D23 Expo in Anaheim to remember their own beloved Genie Robin Williams.

According to Movie Pilot, although the film has yet to come up with a release date, it is already in its early stages of development. The movie will be a backstory of the familiar tale featuring classic characters such as Aladdin himself, Princess Jasmine, Jafar, Genie, and Abu. However, it is unknown whether they would appear besides Genie.

The Guardian adds that the 'Aladdin' adaptation's 'Genie' will aim to explore the mythology behind the wish-giving spirits trapped inside magic lamps. It will follow how Aladdin's own blue-skinned Genie came to find himself as a prisoner of the lamp in the first place. The story is based on an Arabian folktale of Aladdin and his magic lamp from the classic collective literature of 'One Thousand and One Nights'.

Genie was portrayed by the iconic actor Robin Williams in the first feature film. According to Yahoo! Movies, the movie's filmmakers, cast and crew gathered to honor Williams' passing in a poignant tribute during Disney's D23 Expo last August 15 in Anaheim, California. Animator Eric Goldberg said, "He was bigger than life... He transcended time and space... We couldn't have done it without Robin's warmth."

'Aladdin' will be an adventure-comedy film serving as a prequel to the first animated cinematic release. It will be produced by Tripp Vinson through Vinson Films with Damian Shannon and Mark Swift writing the script. The animated musical starred Scott Weinger as the voice of Aladdin, Williams as Genie,  Linda Larkin as Jasmine, Jonathan Freeman as Jafar, Douglas Seale as the Sultan, and Frank Welker as Abu/Cave of Wonders/Rajah.

© 2024 VCPOST, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.

Join the Conversation

Real Time Analytics