Check out the possible reasons behind the long-awaited Aladdin 2 being put on hold
Disney, that dream factory that breathes life into immortal classics, has ventured into live-action adaptation territory with incredible ambition. In the year Aladdin’s blockbuster hit in 2019 grossed $1 billion, and it seemed like the perfect setting for a sequel.
More than a dream in the air?
However, the outlook for Aladdin 2 is becoming increasingly uncertain. Amidst Hollywood’s ups and downs, like the pandemic and strikes, the Will Smith incident at the Oscars has added uncertainty and delays. Meena Masood, who brought the charismatic Aladdin to life, shared her thoughts and experiences in a recent interview with ScreenRant about her vision for the stalled project.
Masud, who was silenced by the industry for his performance in Aladdin, exudes a mixture of resignation and acceptance. “In the year We shot it in 2017. It’s been six years since then. At a certain point, life just goes on,” says Massoud, confirming a mixture of frustration and reality in the lack of significant progress in the sequel.
Director between desire and reality
Guy Ritchie, the director behind the beauty and magic of Aladdin, makes no secret of his desire to return to that fantasy world. “It was a great experience. That Disney thing is, as you can imagine, such a professional ensemble. It was a lot of fun,” Ritchie said. However, his involvement in the “Hercules” adaptation project with the Russo brothers leaves the fate of Aladdin 2 up in the air.
Aladdin 2’s trajectory seems to zigzag between uncertainty and hope. “Return of Jafar” deviates from the established path and the sequel is said to tell an original story. However, as of today, those plans remain in the interim, leaving fans in suspense and uncertainty.
Beyond Aladdin, a talent that awaits recognition
After her shocking debut in Aladdin, Meena Masood has faced a remarkably quiet path in Hollywood. Despite the $1 billion production run, deals haven’t come in as expected. This situation reflects a common challenge in the industry: even after blockbuster success, not all actors find their way into future projects. Massoud deserves a bigger role on the big screen with his skills and talent, but he finds himself in a kind of professional limbo, waiting for a project that will bring him back to stardom.
On the other hand, the comparison with the stars of other Disney live-action adaptations casts an interesting light. Actors such as Emma Watson in Beauty and Cinderella and Lily James have achieved significant growth following their respective roles in their careers. This shows the difference in how different actors capitalize on the success of these mega brands. Massoud’s case invites us to reflect on the complex paths of fame and recognition in Hollywood.
The wait continues
The journey of Aladdin 2 is a tale of ups and downs, plagued by strikes and other delays due to the blockbuster success of its predecessor and the complexities of today’s Hollywood. As Massoud looks to the future with a mix of nostalgia and pragmatism, and Ritchie embarks on new projects, fans of the saga can’t wait to dream of the day when the magic of Agrabah comes alive and shines once again on the big screen. Ideal world.