The live-action remake of Disney's "Aladdin" is still years away from showing in theaters but speculations about the movie have been cropping up online. Director Guy Ritchie shared some of his insights on news that have been going around, particularly about will smith, the alleged lack of music in the movie and who's going to play the titular role.
Speaking with E! News, the director revealed he likes Will Smith for the part of the Genie. Though he did not confirm nor deny whether the actor was indeed cast, despite the reports, Ritchie said he's looking forward to doing the movie if Smith was on it.
"It would make me very happy to be making it with him, but the whole thing is very exciting," he said.
Aladdin, a musical or not?
Guy Ritchie also hinted he's not opposed to having "Aladdin" as a musical, just like the '90s animated version from Disney. He, however, said he does not have any concrete details about this just yet. Should the movie become a live musical, then it would be the first time the director will be doing such a film.
Back in October, when Disney announced his name as the helmer of the live-action, it was revealed he was picked for his stylistic vision. Ritchie's movies are known for its gritty visuals. The Hollywood Reporter cited Disney wanted a "nontraditional" and "ambitious" take for the remake, hence picking Ritchie made sense.
Aladdin search for lead star
Before production actually starts, the director said they still have to find their lead star. There is, in fact, an open call in London at the Old College Building (also known as the Cochrane Theatre) in Holborn, London on May 14.
Casting directors will be looking for a handsome young man to play the part of Aladdin.
He must be around 18 to 22 years-old with Middle Eastern features. He must also have an agile body and he should be physically fit, as per Empire Online. The actor should also know how to sing and dance.
While it's not an utmost requirement, it will certainly be a plus for the auditions. Filming for Aladdin is expected to start in August and will run until the January next year.
Disney's Aladdin first ran in theaters in 1992 and it was based on the tale of "Aladdin and the Magic Lamp." Aside from Robin Williams, who lent his voice for Genie, which also earned him awards and recognitions, the animated movie also featured the voices of Scott Weinger, Linda Larkin, Gilbert Gottfried, Douglas Seale, Frank Welker and Jonathan Freeman.