LOS ANGELES - The worldwide search for “Aladdin” is proving to be a shaky magic-carpet ride. Earlier this year, director Guy Ritchie commenced a global casting search for the live-action remake of the Disney film. But after several months and more than 1,000 auditionees, they still haven’t found someone who would play the role of the indigent man turned sultan’s heir.

According to Hollywood Reporter, Ritchie and his team are still searching for a 20-something lad, preferably with Middle Eastern or South Asian heritage, who can also belt out powerful notes for his role.

Some of the names floating for the lead role were “Slumdog Millionaire” star Dev Patel and British-Pakistani actor Riz Ahmed. But according to the report, Ritchie’s team is bent on casting newcomers like Dutch actor Achraf Koutet, Canadian star Mena Massoud and American actor George Kosturos.

Although “Power Rangers” star Naomi Scott and Indian singer Tara Sutaria are considered for the role of Jasmine, Disney can’t make a final verdict until Aladdin is cast. The on-screen chemistry between Aladdin and Jasmine is a vital tool for the movie’s success. - Agencies