The Monkey

Frank’s Film Review: The Monkey
⭐⭐⭐ /5

Inspired by a Stephen King story, The Monkey twists a supernatural premise into a wild blend of horror and dark comedy. It’s strange, chaotic, and impossible to forget—a unique mix that refuses to take itself too seriously.

The story starts with twin brothers as young boys exploring their late father’s belongings when they stumble across an old wind-up monkey hidden in a closet. At first, the toy seems like a harmless relic. But their childhood curiosity quickly fades when they witness the Monkey’s horrifying power firsthand. Every time it’s wound up and starts drumming, someone dies gruesomely. This early discovery leaves a deep scar, forever changing their lives.

The film then leaps forward twenty-five years, with the now-adult brothers played by Theo James. Haunted by their traumatic past and the havoc the Monkey caused, the brothers are reluctantly reunited when the cursed toy resurfaces. The time jump adds weight to the story, showing how the unresolved trauma of their childhood has shaped their very different adult lives.

Theo James anchors the film with his dual portrayal of the twins as adults, delivering a mix of charm and emotion. While one of the brothers feels less distinct or fully realized at times, James still manages to sell the dynamic between the two. His ability to balance the fear and ridiculousness of the Monkey’s terror keeps the audience engaged, even as the story ventures into chaotic territory.

Osgood Perkins directs this unconventional story with energy and purpose, effectively highlighting the eerie and humorous elements of the monkey’s deadly drumming. The relentless beats produced by the toy’s tiny drumsticks are chilling and darkly amusing, establishing a quirky rhythm that drives the film’s strange progression to its conclusion. This unique blend of unsettling suspense and absurdity gives The Monkey its distinctive character.

If you’re looking for a unique mix of supernatural thrills and unexpected comedy, The Monkey is a fantastic option for a fun night out. I would rate this film three stars.