Disney Finds Their Jafar For Live-Action Aladdin Remake

The part of Jafar has remained empty, however, but it sounds like Disney has now found their man. Despite Tom Hardy being rumored for it, today we’ve learned from The Hollywood Reporter that Marwan Kenzari (the  Murder on the Orient Express) has been selected to bring the iconic villain to life. The outlet also brings word that SNL alum Nasim Pedrad has climbed on board to play Mara, a new character described as a “handmaiden and friend to Jasmine” who will provide some laughs.

The screenplay for the project comes from John August, who has quite an eclectic writing resume – ranging from Go and the Charlie’s Angels films, to regularly collaborating with Tim Burton on movies such as Big Fish, Corpse Bride, Frankenweenie and Dark Shadows. A union between the writing style of August and the very distinctive directing style of Guy Ritchie therefore makes Aladdin a very intriguing prospect indeed.

Following Cinderella, The Jungle Book and this year’s no sign of slowing down anytime soon. The latter recently cemented its place in Hollywood’s history books after crossing that all-important $1 billion milestone at the box office, so it’s small wonder why the Mouse House view these modern interpretations as big business. And with the cast that they’re looking to line up for Aladdin, we’re certain that they’ll find themselves with another hit on their hands.