Aladdin has become Disney’s new venture in their mission to bring to life all of their animated films. The project has already selected Guy Ritchie to direct, with producer Dan Lin and executive producer Jonathan Eirich. The script has been written by Big Fish‘s John August and follows the animated 1992 story of a commoner, Aladdin, who falls in love with the Princess Jasmine and, after stumbling upon a magic lamp, is able to win her and her father over with the help of his new genie friend.
The genie, famously voiced by Robin Williams, might be played by another famous Hollywood star, Will Smith. According to Deadline, Smith was originally considered for Tim Burton’s live action Dumbo but a contract never materialized and now it looks like his musical talents might be used to bring the big blue man to life.
It will be a long time until the film hits the big screens, however, as the project is looking at a six month shooting schedule, beginning in the UK in July and running until early next year. But there are sure to be many other Disney live action films releasing before that time — next up, Mulan!