The Monkey Movie Review: A Thrilling Stephen King Adaptation
Oz Perkins' The Monkey (2025) is a terrifying mix of horror and dark humor solidifying its status as one of the most unforgettable Stephen King adaptations. With its unrelenting investigation of death's certainty and standout performances by Theo James and Tatiana Maslany the film frightens while inducing laughter a feat few modern horrors can achieve. This review dissects the movie's strengths, weaknesses, and why it's a must-see for fans of the genre.
The Monkey Movie Plot Summary
The film opens with a spooky prologue in which Adam Scott plays a haunted airline pilot driven mad by a haunted toy monkey. Cut to twins Hal and Bill Shelburne (played as kids by Christian Convery, as adults by Theo James), who find the same monkey in their attic. Not knowing its lethal capability, they wind it up, and a series of horrific killings ensue around them. Their mother (Tatiana Maslany) attempts to destroy the toy, but it reappears years later to wreak havoc on the estranged brothers.
Unlike most horror movies, The Monkey will not allow its characters to avoid fate. Each drumbeat from the toy heralds a certain, gruesome demise, combining suspense with dark humor15.
Why The Monkey Stands Out
A Masterclass in Tone and Direction
Oz Perkins, who directed Longlegs and The Blackcoat's Daughter, strikes a perfect balance between horror and comedy. The first scene—a bloody Adam Scott holding the monkey—establishes a darkly comedic tone. Perkins employs stark imagery and jarring tonal changes to leave audiences on edge a style that critics have praised.
Themes of Mortality and Trauma
"Everybody dies and that's life" echoes throughout the movie highlighting its contemplation on the inevitability of death. The monkey is a symbol of unresolved trauma, lingering with the Shelburne family for decades. Such thematic richness places it beyond being just jump-scare fare17.
Standout Performances
Theo James is superb as Hal grown up, bringing desperation and guilt with uncompromising vigor. Tatiana Maslany's appearance as the cynical mom provides emotional ballast, as Christian Convery brings to life childhood innocence traumatized by horror58.
Horror Meets Humor: A Risky Balance
The Monkey’s dark comedy contrasts sharply with its gruesome kills. One scene juxtaposes a family dinner with sudden, over-the-top violence, highlighting Perkins’ audacious style. While some viewers might find this jarring it reinforces the film’s nihilistic message: life’s absurdity makes death even more terrifying.
Who Should Watch The Monkey?
Viewers who enjoy psychological horror as well as the work of Stephen King will love its layered storytelling. Nevertheless, its graphic violence and dark tone make it inappropriate for children. Should you have enjoyed watching Final Destination but wanted more depth, The Monkey is your next movie.
Final Verdict
The Monkey is a horror filmmaking success, delivering frights, humor, and existential terror in equal proportions. Though its second act drags slightly Perkins' direction and the cast's phenomenal performances make it unforgettable.
Rating: 4.5/5
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Monkey based on a true story?
No—it's taken from Stephen King's 1980 short story although Oz Perkins introduces original twists.
How does it compare to other King adaptations?
It's more in the tone of Misery than IT with a psychological horror focus over supernatural spectacle.
Where can I stream The Monkey?
As of March 2025, it's currently in theaters across the globe with a streaming release planned for later this year.
