The Monkey: Swinging through all the Monkey Business

Movie Info:

When news broke that Osgood Perkins, the master of atmospheric horror, was adapting Stephen King’s short story “The Monkey,” fans braced themselves for a chilling ride. But in a twist as unexpected as a banana peel on a busy sidewalk, Perkins delivers a comedic escapade that flips the script—literally and figuratively. Starring Theo James and Tatiana Maslany, “The Monkey” swings into theaters with a blend of humor, absurdity, and just enough heart to keep us hanging on.

Review:

When news broke that Osgood Perkins, the master of atmospheric horror, was adapting Stephen King‘s short story “The Monkey,” fans braced themselves for a chilling ride. But in a twist as unexpected as a banana peel on a busy sidewalk, Perkins delivers a comedic escapade that flips the script—literally and figuratively. Starring Theo James and Tatiana Maslany, “The Monkey” swings into theaters with humor, absurdity, and just enough heart to keep us hanging on.

The film centers on twin brothers Hal and Bill Shelburn (played by Theo James and Christian Convery as young Hal and Bill), whose lives are turned upside down when they discover their father’s old wind-up monkey toy in the attic. Unbeknownst to them, this isn’t just any creepy collectible; it’s possessed by a mischievous spirit that causes a series of outrageous deaths, tearing their family apart. Twenty-five years later, the monkey begins a new killing spree, forcing the estranged siblings to confront the cursed toy.

Hal and Bill’s quiet lives spiral into chaos when the monkey starts clapping its tiny cymbals. Their mother, Lois (played by Tatiana Maslany), becomes a victim, and the brothers are left to navigate a world where death seems to follow the monkey’s every move. James and Maslany deliver performances that balance humor and horror, with James’s deadpan reactions and Maslany’s quirky energy creating a dynamic duo.

Perkins’ directorial shift from horror to comedy is surprising and refreshingly enjoyable. He retains his signature atmospheric style but infuses it with vibrant colors and whimsical set pieces. The result is a film that feels like “Ghostbusters” met “Jumanji” at a stand-up comedy club. The spooky elements are there, but they’re served with a generous side of silliness that keeps the tone light and entertaining.

The supporting cast adds extra layers of hilarity. Elijah Wood makes a memorable appearance as Ted Hammerman, the new husband of Hal’s ex-wife, whose attempts to bond with his stepchildren are hilariously thwarted by the monkey’s antics. Colin O’Brien plays Hal’s son Petey, whose innocent curiosity leads to some of the film’s most laugh-out-loud moments.

However, the movie isn’t without its missteps. At times, the plot feels as wobbly as a unicycling giraffe. Some jokes miss their mark, and a few scenes drag on longer than necessary, diluting the comedic impact.

Yet, amid the chaos, the film finds its heart. Hal’s journey from a control freak to someone who embraces life’s unpredictability is endearing. Lois’s influence helps him see that sometimes, the best experiences come from the unplanned and unexpected—even if they involve a possessed toy monkey and inexplicable phenomena.

“The Monkey” is a delightful detour from the director’s usual haunting paths. While it may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it offers laughs and an enjoyable experience for those willing to set aside expectations. Perkins proves he can handle comedy with a deft touch, and the cast’s energetic performances make this quirky film worth watching.

For fans of lighthearted comedies with a paranormal twist, “The Monkey” is a cheerful romp that reminds us that sometimes, it’s okay to let go and let the monkey take over—even if it means your kitchen appliances develop a mind of their own. Remember to leave your expectations at the door and let the monkey take the wheel.