Guy Ritchie’s Aladdin will be providing a more in-depth exploration of not only the story, but the characters as well. Ritchie - one of the most distinctive visual stylists in the film industry - has brought his talents to Disney for Aladdin, one of the newest additions to a long-list of films that Disney is remaking from their lineup of classic animated properties.
Nevar Negahban - who has been cast as Jasmine's father - talked to Screen Rant exclusively about what we should expect for the live action version of Aladdin, and whether or not we'll be in for some singing from The Sultan:
"(Laughing) No. My name is 'Singbad the Sailor' so this is my name. I’m not a singer. My kids, they laugh at me when I start singing. Guy’s point of view goes deeper. One of the things he wanted to do and he was very, very cautious about it and he was emphasizing on that he wants to be very respectful to the characters."
Related: Aladdin's Genie Was Supposed to Be Green
Ritchie's careful approach should be welcome to many fans of the original film. There has been no shortage of apprehension over Hollywood's penchant for whitewashing what should be ethnic characters, but that's been put to rest by a largely Middle Eastern cast. However, that still didn't stop early rumors from circulating about whitewashing. It now seems as if everyone can rest easy and put a little faith in Ritchie's vision for the characters.
"He’s very, very cautious. He wants to show the depth of each of these characters and the film itself will be a film that no matter how old you are, you’re going to enjoy it. It’s a fantastic team. Beautiful, beautiful team. I mean, you will see the costumes. Gorgeous! Unbelievable!"
Disney's original Aladdin was released in 1992, and for many it is the quintessential 90s Disney film. There were a lot of really big ones peppered throughout the 90s, but Aladdin stood out by featuring really great animation, a spectacular cast and some of the most memorable songs in Disney's catalog. All reports are pointing to Ritchie's remake also being a musical, which will be great for Disney purists. In addition to Nevar Negahban and Will Smith - portraying The Genie - Ritchie's Aladdin will also feature Mena Massoud as Aladdin, Naomi Scott as Jasmine and Marwan Kenzari as Jafar.
Guy Ritchie has had a tumultuous couple of years at cinemas, with his last two films The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and King of Arthur: Legend of the Sword underperforming critically. He broke onto the scene with visually over-the-top films like Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch and has since helmed big features like Sherlock Holmes. Throughout his filmography, he’s filled the screen with the kind of stunning imagery and quick cinematography that should make any Disney fan excited for what he will be bringing to the table for Aladdin.
More: Disney's Live Action Aladdin Will Include Rajah
