“The Monkey” is the long-awaited film release of a horror movie based on Stephen King’s short story.
Directed by Osgood Perkins, this horror-thriller is to open in theaters on February 21, 2025. The movie was dynamic and a group of renowned actors and actresses who brought it to life, like Theo James, Elijah Wood, Tatiana Maslany, and Adam Scott.
What Is ‘The Monkey’ About?
It is a story about two brothers Hal and Bill Shelburn, the roles of whom are played by Theo James, who find an unusual mechanical monkey following their father’s death. This toy, which supposedly is not dangerous, is treaded as the cause of the murders. Economy Unclosed The brothers must solve the mystery which became a monster before they are claimed by the darkness they had released.
The narrative is about how one toy that is harmless but evil to its owners lived with the family for 25 years. This is a film that intelligently combines the scariness of psychology and supernatural. Stephen King’s work was successfully adapted into a gripping movie.
Star-Studded Cast
‘The Monkey’ boasts of the following actors:
- Theo James as Hal and Bill Shelburn (the twins badly affected by the curse).
- Elijah Wood as Ted Hammerman (Hal’s ex-wife’s new husband).
- Tatiana Maslany as Lois Shelburn (the twins’ mother).
- Christian Convery as the young version of Hal and Bill.
- Adam Scott as Captain Petey Shelburn (their father).
What Makes ‘The Monkey’ Unique?
‘The Monkey’ through its dark humor contrasted against the suspense sets itself apart from conventional horror movies. Director Osgood Perkins, having previously used a similar spooky setting to narrate “Longlegs,” brings an eeriness to this adaptation through this storytelling technique.
Perkins has disclosed that the film deals with themes of fate, trauma, and uncontrollable evil. He commented on the movie as being both frightening and eccentrically entertaining, giving a sense of unique from the rest of Stephen King adaptations.
Early Reviews: Mixed Reactions
Critics are divided in their opinion about ‘The Monkey.’
- Time Out characterized it as a “rattlingly fun horror-comedy” with a twisted narrative.
- The Guardian disliked the film, calling it “smug, nihilistic, and failing to strike a balance between horror and humor.”
- The San Francisco Chronicle observed that even though the visuals of the film are great, the characters seem detached from the story.
Although there were varied comments from critics, Stephen King, himself, gives his approval to the film. He termed it to be “batshit insane”, which has sent fans into a jolly frenzy for the movie.
Behind the Scenes
‘The Monkey’ embarked on an intriguing production journey. At first, Elijah Wood was not the original actor for his role, but later on he was called before the shooting. Co-actor Colin O’Brien commended Wood for his thoroughness and for fitting in smoothly.
And Osgood Perkins, director of “The Monkey”, stepped forward to tell me that he had put in some new scenes that never existed in the original story. In doing so, he hoped to weave together King’s horror style with unexpected funny moments.
Where to Watch ‘The Monkey’
‘The Monkey’ will open in theaters on February 21, 2025. The movie is managed by Neon which is the company that came into public as a hit with these horror films “It Follows” and “Titane.” The film is 98 minutes long and has an R rating due to violence, gore, and strong language.
‘The Monkey’ is unquestionably slated to be the talk of the town in the horror genre 2025. With a scary storyline, an excellent ensemble, and the endorsement of Stephen King – those who love creepy or supernatural thriller movies should definitely not miss it.
Can’t decide if ‘The Monkey’ will take off or be just one more forgettable horror movie? Don’t wait, see it during the February 21, 2025, shows in theaters and then be sure to get to the latest news.
