'The Monkey': A Horror-Comedy Rollercoaster
Stephen King's cinematic imagination takes a daring twist in his latest adaptation, *The Monkey*. Released on February 21, 2025, this unique film mashes up spine-chilling horror with a dose of dark comedy, earning mixed-to-positive reactions from both critics and audiences.
Directed with flair by Osgood Perkins, known for helming *Longlegs*, *The Monkey* stars Theo James in an ambitious dual role as twin brothers who find themselves at the mercy of a cursed toy monkey. This eerie relic brings death in its wake, albeit with a surprising blend of humor. While some may find the idea of a deadly toy monkey amusing, the film dials up its cleverness through creative death scenes, reminiscent of the chaotic nature seen in films like *Final Destination*. Critics laud this cruelty-coated comedy as Perkins unravels the bleakness of mortality while injecting moments of absurd laughter.
The stellar cast, featuring names such as Tatiana Maslany, Elijah Wood, and Christian Convery, receives high praise for their nuanced performances. Perkins' skillful direction stands out, as he blends supernatural elements with absurdist humor. This distinctive style pushes the envelope of traditional horror, taking audiences on a ride where death isn't just scary—it's an oddly hilarious fact of life. Yet, the film's constant tonal balancing act leaves some viewers scratching their heads; the mix of dramatic beats within the comedic narrative has sparked debates about its coherence.
Success and Critique
*The Monkey* has more than just critical acclaim working in its favor. The film has seen commercial success, earning a commendable $40 million worldwide against a modest budget of $10–11 million, making it the top-grossing horror flick of 2025 so far. Its Rotten Tomatoes score of 79% and a Metacritic rating of 62/100 reflect the generally positive reactions from the critical community.
However, despite its strengths, the film faces a lukewarm reception from regular audiences, scoring a 'C+' CinemaScore. Many point out issues like uneven pacing and character development, yet there’s no denying *The Monkey's* potential to become a cult favorite with its quirky style. As Perkins continues to build his name as a horror auteur, with works like *Longlegs* behind him, *The Monkey* cements his reputation as a filmmaker willing to take risks. Whether fans come for the scares or the laughs, this movie is sure to leave them with plenty to talk about.