The Monkey : In a cinematic landscape often saturated with conventional frights, “The Monkey,” the 2025 horror-comedy from acclaimed director Osgood Perkins, swings in as a breath of fresh, albeit unsettling, air. Based on Stephen King’s chilling 1980 short story, this film takes a darkly humorous approach to the supernatural, proving that sometimes, the most terrifying things come in the most unexpected packages. With its unique blend of horror and satire, “The Monkey” has already carved out a significant buzz, captivating audiences and critics alike with its audacious premise and unforgettable moments.
Highlights ✨
“The Monkey” stands out for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its tonal tightrope walk between genuine dread and morbid humor is a significant highlight. Perkins masterfully crafts scenes that are both genuinely unsettling and outrageously funny, a delicate balance that few films achieve. The film also boasts stylized cinematography and effective sound design, particularly the ominous clang of the monkey’s cymbals, which becomes a comedic and chilling harbinger of doom. It’s a film that knows how to lean into the absurdity of its core concept, making for a truly memorable experience.
Cast 🎭
The film features a talented ensemble that brings its quirky characters to life.
- Theo James takes on the challenging dual role of twin brothers Hal and Bill, effectively portraying their contrasting personalities – the beleaguered Hal and the jaded, almost villainous Bill. His performance is central to the film’s comedic undertones and emotional core.
- Tatiana Maslany delivers a nuanced performance as Lois, the twins’ mother, adding emotional weight to the story despite its macabre elements.
- Elijah Wood makes a notable, scene-stealing cameo, injecting his unique offbeat energy into the proceedings.
- Young Christian Convery as the younger Hal and Bill is particularly impressive, convincingly differentiating the siblings and setting the stage for their future conflict.
Storyline 📜
“The Monkey” centers on twin brothers Hal and Bill, whose lives are irrevocably altered by the discovery of a seemingly innocent wind-up toy monkey. This isn’t just any toy; whenever its drums are played, a horrific and often comically gruesome death occurs nearby. After a series of tragic incidents, including the death of their mother, the brothers attempt to bury the cursed object and move on. However, twenty-five years later, the monkey mysteriously resurfaces, forcing the estranged siblings to confront their past and the demonic toy that continues to wreak havoc. The film delves into themes of childhood trauma, family dysfunction, and the inevitability of death, all wrapped in a surprisingly witty package.
Review ⭐
Critics have largely praised “The Monkey” for its bold artistic vision and its ability to reinvent the horror genre. The film has been lauded for its darkly hilarious moments and visually striking direction. While some have found the tonal shifts to be occasionally jarring or the pacing a bit slow, the consensus points to a fresh and original take on horror. Audiences, however, have had a more mixed reaction, with some not fully embracing the film’s comedic leanings in a horror context. Despite this, its audacity and unique style have cemented its place as a significant talking point in 2025 cinema.
Budget 💰
“The Monkey” was produced on a relatively modest budget of $10-11 million, a testament to Osgood Perkins’ ability to create a high-impact cinematic experience without a massive financial outlay. This efficient use of resources further highlights the film’s creative strength.
Release Date 🗓️
The film was theatrically released in the United States on February 21, 2025, by Neon. Prior to its wide release, it garnered early attention through screenings at events like Beyond Fest in January.
Box Office Collection 💸
As of April 17, 2025, “The Monkey” has demonstrated a solid performance at the box office, grossing approximately $68.6 million worldwide. This includes a domestic (US and Canada) take of around $39.7 million and $28.9 million from international territories. Its opening weekend saw it debut with $14 million, securing the second spot at the box office. The film has comfortably recouped its production budget, proving to be a commercial success for Neon.
Pros and Cons ✅❌
- Pros:
- Original and refreshing blend of horror and black comedy.
- Strong performances, particularly Theo James in his dual role.
- Visually distinctive with effective cinematography and sound.
- Explores deeper themes of trauma and family dynamics.
- Successfully subverts genre expectations.
- Cons:
- Tonal shifts may not appeal to all audiences, particularly those expecting a straightforward horror.
- Some viewers found the humor repetitive or overly vulgar.
- Occasional pacing issues due to its slow-burn narrative style.
Ratings 📊
- Rotten Tomatoes (Critics): 78% Certified Fresh – indicating generally positive reviews.
- Rotten Tomatoes (Audience): 60-65% – showing a more divisive reception among viewers.
- CinemaScore: C+ – reflecting a somewhat lukewarm audience reaction.
- IMDb: 6.6/10
Conclusion 🎬
“The Monkey” is more than just a horror film; it’s a darkly comedic exploration of fate and trauma, wrapped in a visually striking package. Osgood Perkins has once again delivered a film that challenges genre norms and sparks conversation. While its unique blend of terror and laughter might not be for everyone, its audacity and creativity make it a significant entry in the 2025 film calendar. It’s a movie that invites you to question the line between fear and funny, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 🤔
1. Is “The Monkey” a purely horror film, or does it have other elements?”
The Monkey” is explicitly a horror-comedy film. While it features gruesome and unsettling moments characteristic of horror, it also heavily incorporates black humor and satirical elements throughout its narrative.
2. Is “The Monkey” suitable for all audiences?
No, “The Monkey” is rated R for strong bloody violence, gore, language, and some sexual references. It contains mature themes and graphic content that are not suitable for younger viewers.
3. How faithful is the movie “The Monkey” to Stephen King’s original short story?
The film is based on Stephen King’s 1980 short story “The Monkey.” While it retains the core premise of the cursed toy monkey and its deadly effects, director Osgood Perkins has taken some creative liberties to expand on the narrative and inject his distinct black comedy style into the adaptation.
