Will Smith is in talks to play Genie in the upcoming Aladdin live-action remake, Deadline reports, though discussions for his casting are still in the early stages. The role was originally played by Robin Williams in the 1992 Disney animated film, which turns 25 this year.
The reboot will be directed by Guy Ritchie, and is expected to start shooting in the UK from July until early next year. There is no release date yet. Aladdin is among the growing list of Disney classics getting the live-action treatment, including Mulan, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King and Dumbo. If they turn out anything like the recently-released Beauty and the Beast remake, which has earned over $1 billion worldwide, expect them to be blockbusters.
Smith was actually in talks to join the Dumbo remake as well, which will be directed by Tim Burton, but that "did not materialize," according to Deadline. However, his music background makes him a great fit for Aladdin, which will be an onscreen musical. At this point, there is no news yet on who will play Aladdin or Jasmine, but if Smith signs on, we can look forward to a great cast.
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