For the 90’s generation, Aladdin, Jasmine, Jafaar, and the genie presented all the thrill the world can ever bring to a movie. Seeing the world from a flying carpet and having the genie’s super powers were the ultimate dream of young generations back then.
Disney announced, Saturday night, Egyptian-Canadian actor Mena Massoud to play the role of Aladdin in its new live-action remake. Massoud is to perform alongside British actress Naomi Scott, who plays the role of Princess Jasmine, and Will Smith, who will take on the role of Genie.
The film is to be directed by Guy Ritchie.
This comes after Disney had announced facing some difficulties in finding a person to perform Aladdin’s role, asking people to offer their online suggestions for the perfect candidate.
Among more than 200 applicants, Massoud was chosen to perform the role of the beloved Aladdin.
The original animated film takes on an Arabic folk tale involving a young man who is granted three wishes from a genie he found trapped in a lamp. Disney’s animated feature Aladdin was the highest-grossing film of 1992, won two Academy Awards, best score, and best song for “A Whole New World.”
After announcing the news, Massoud expressed his anticipation and excitement in a tweet, saying, “So honoured and grateful for the opportunity to help bring this magical story to life once again. Let’s get to work!”
Young actor Massoud was born in Egypt, but raised in Canada. He currently lives between Toronto and Los Angeles.
