In the world of horror films, few things can summon up terror quite like a cursed object, and director Osgood Perkins' latest offering, The Monkey, has quickly made a name for itself within this trope.
Released on February 19, 2025, the film adapts Stephen King’s chilling short story and follows twin brothers Hal and Bill Shelburn, played by Theo James, who must confront the horrors associated with a sinister wind-up monkey toy they found in their father's attic during childhood. With each turn of the toy's crank, a gruesome death befalls someone nearby, painting a dark picture of their childhood marred by trauma.
As of March 20, 2025, The Monkey has grossed over $50 million worldwide, topping $35 million in domestic box office eagerly marking its success within a genre that often struggles at the box office. In doing so, it has outperformed several of King’s past adaptations, including the 2013 remake of Carrie and the films Dreamcatcher and Doctor Sleep. The film has impressively settled at a 79% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating that it has resonated well with audiences.
The movie opens with a fantastically dark sense of humor that mirrors the chaotic and comedic death sequences akin to those found in the popular Final Destination series. Death comes in inventive and ironic ways, leading to a blend of shock and laughter in a manner that will keep audiences entertained. For instance, one character meets their demise, quite literally, while “playing” with kiddie toys, ultimately landing face-first into a fireplace. Such absurdity only heightens the tension, allowing viewers to laugh while grimacing at the gruesomeness of it all. It is this mix of horror and comedy that has prompted many reviews to call The Monkey not just a horror movie, but a bizarre comedy steeped in dark humor.
Besides its gruesome storyline, the film also enjoys a strong cast, with Tatiana Maslany providing a compelling performance as the boys’ mother, Lois, and Elijah Wood appearing as Hel’s awkward stepfather, Ted. Adam Scott also sneaks into the film as the boys’ absent father, Petey Shelburn Sr. without a previous prediction of doom looming in the family. Perkins breathes life into a sinister atmosphere with his unique directing style, which combines creepy visuals with a playful yet violent tone. Scenes set in shadowy rooms and dimly lit hallways accentuate the tension, with the tension enhanced by eerie sound effects and unsettling visuals. Critics are praising Perkins for having an eye for detail that elevates the film beyond mere horror flick.
Given Perkins' history, it seems plausible how he secured the much-anticipated release of The Monkey after the immense success of his previous film, Longlegs, which grossed $125 million globally. Neon, the distributor, has celebrated this momentum, boasting that both films exemplify a unique blend of horror and humor that audiences are craving.
Despite the film's notable triumphs, some reviewers noted that certain aspects could use more depth. Characters could be more fleshed out, and the resolution with the human antagonist felt somewhat underwhelming. Critics mentioned, while the absurdity provides laughs, some moments teeter too far into comedy, slightly diminishing the horror elements that the audience seeks.
As a blend of horror and dark comedy, The Monkey may not be perfect, but it has certainly found a niche appealing to those who appreciate its unique blend of chaos. Critics agree that the film is a fun, entertaining ride that captures the essence of its source material, showcasing the terrifying power of childhood terrors brought into adulthood. In this regard, audiences are warned that while they wind up their own interests in horror, they should be cautious about toys that may come with unexpected consequences.
In conclusion, The Monkey stands out for its originality, reflecting a depth that scares, causes laughter, and enthralls through twisted family ties and unresolved traumas. It captures an uncanny ambiance of dread while also delivering substantial comedic relief, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre.
