AceShowbiz -

Walt Disney Studios has given an earlier release date for its upcoming film "Aladdin". The live-action musical remake of the classic animated film was initially poised to arrive in the United States on December 20, 2019, but it is now moved up for seven months, scheduled to premiere on May 24, 2019.

The December 20, 2019 slot is now held by "Star Wars: Episode IX", which is pushed back after J.J. Abrams was announced as its new director, replacing Colin Trevorrow. With its new release date, the third installment of the new "Star Wars" trilogy will open in theaters a week after Patty Jenkins' "Wonder Woman 2".

"Aladdin" will be directed by Guy Ritchie ("King Arthur: Legend of the Sword") from a script he co-writes with John August ("Corpse Bride", "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory") and Vanessa Taylor, who is known for writing three episodes of HBO's "Game of Thrones" in season 2 and 3. Dan Lin, who worked with Ritchie on "Sherlock Holmes", is producing through his Lin Pictures banner.

The upcoming live-action film has tapped newcomer Mena Massoud and "Power Rangers" actress Naomi Scott to play Aladdin/Prince Ali and Princess Jasmine respectively. "The Mummy" actor Marwan Kenzari has been cast as the villain Jafar, while "Suicide Squad" star Will Smith is on board to play Genie.

It's reported before that "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" actor Billy Magnussen has been cast as Prince Anders. Other details about the new character are still kept under wraps, aside from it being a new role created for the musical film, as the character was not seen in the 1992 original animated pic.

Additionally, "Saturday Night Live" alum Nasim Pedrad has joined the cast to play another original character. Other cast members include Numan Acar, who will play Jafar's henchman Hakim, and Navid Negahban, who is set to portray the Sultan.