‘The Monkey’ Delivers Enormous Blast of Outrageous Kills

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“The Monkey” shouldn’t work on any level.

The trick is so simple that it borders on being laughable. Almost every death scene in the film is predictable from miles away. You could write the entire plot on a bar napkin, leaving plenty of space for someone else’s contact information.

Maybe two.

Why does it easily make the year’s Top 10 horror movie list? That’s due to writer/director Osgood Perkins. Known as an emerging master of horror (“Longlegs”), he skillfully works with the minimal script, delving into family tension that gives the narrative a sharp edge.

Not the titular monkey’s teeth, mind you. They’re scary enough.

A ghoulish prologue, no spoilers here, announces the film’s gleefully dark tone.

Instead of constantly arguing, twin siblings Hal and Bill share a common affection for their unique and caring mother, portrayed by the talented Tatiana Maslany. Despite her quirks, she is both lovable and genuine.

When the boys stumble upon a big, mechanical monkey with a drum, which was forgotten by their long-lost grandfather, they’ll likely require that support. The monkey is quite large and resembles a toy.

Simple. Weird. Old school. It’s a curiosity they can’t resist.

Wound it up and sadly, it’s time for a goodbye at the mortuary. This toy has been a part of their childhood memories and strangely, forms an unexpected connection with them.

Shifting focus to the current situation, mild-mannered Hal (Theo James, surprisingly fitting for this role) has yet to move past the influence of the monkey’s inheritance or his tormenting sibling. Tragically, the menacing plaything resurfaces in his life, posing a danger not only to him but also to his adolescent son (Colin O’Brien).

Title “The Monkey” originates from a Stephen King short tale, and at first glance, it appears rather simple with just a clever horror twist. But once you activate it, be prepared for an unexpected chain of events to unfold.

Again, how pedestrian.

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Perkins skillfully paints a humorous yet poignant portrayal of a troubled family, using swift, confident brushstrokes. Laughter will come swiftly, but there may be a moment of guilt later on. This is the unique ability of black comedy to evoke emotions.

1. The hilarity stems from the maniacal deaths and characters’ responses. These elements are hard to resist and stay memorable, while the expert editing intensifies the comedy. Each joke is as sharp as the knives Idris Elba wishes to outlaw.

2. The humor erupts from the gruesome kills and character reactions. Both aspects are captivating and enduring, and the skillful editing amplifies the laughter. Every punchline is as biting as the knives Idris Elba aims to prohibit.

3. The chuckles originate from the maniacal slayings and character’s responses. These elements have an irresistible and lasting impact, while the finely-tuned editing boosts the humor. Each gag is as sharp as the knives Idris Elba wants to ban.

4. The mirth comes from the maniacal killings and character’s responses. Both aspects are difficult to ignore and linger, with the masterful editing enhancing the comedy. Every joke is as biting as the knives Idris Elba seeks to forbid.

5. The giggles stem from the maniacal murders and character reactions. These elements are hard to resist and remain memorable, with the meticulous editing boosting the hilarity. Each gag is as sharp as the knives Idris Elba wishes to outlaw.

Instead of James’ attractive face contradicting his gloomy disposition, it seems his character, Hal, remains a classic picture of sadness during prime time hours. Yet, we empathize with his efforts to fulfill a paternal role after a long delay.

As a horror enthusiast, I can’t help but appreciate the thrill of unique, exhilarating, and imaginative “kills” – those death scenes that send chills down my spine. It seems to be an integral aspect of the horror genre’s fandom. Among the filmmakers who truly relish this trope, Perkins stands out, especially with his movie “Monkey.

Each death is a masterpiece of gore and mayhem, and we laugh partly out of discomfort and shame.

As a devoted cinephile, I must confess that while the third act did manage to slot some elements of the plot into place, it fell short of delivering the level of satisfaction I had anticipated. Nevertheless, it maintained an edge-of-your-seat intensity and showcased enough creativity to make those climactic scenes truly thrilling.

Perkins makes a visit, playing the part of the joyful uncle among the boys, offering a sneak peek into the enjoyable times he likely had during filming.

We get it. We’re having a blast with his “Monkey,” too.

Title Review: “The Monkey” Elevates Comedy-Horror Genre, Delightfully Exploring Death Whilst Hinting at Family’s Darker Truths

Title Analysis: “The Monkey” Soars in the Realm of Comedy-Horror, Offering a Charming Take on Mortality and Subtly Unveiling Family Struggles.

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2025-02-17 21:03