A Hilarious Descent into Horror
The Monkey, based on Stephen King’s chilling short story, is a masterful adaptation that brilliantly combines horror and comedy, creating a unique viewing experience that keeps audiences both laughing and on the edge of their seats. Directed by the visionary Osgood Perkins, known for his work on Longlegs, this film offers a fresh take on the classic horror sub-genre.
The premise centres around a young boy who comes into possession of a mysterious monkey figurine that grants wishes, but with hilariously dark twists. As the family navigates the absurd and often ridiculous consequences of their desires, the film cleverly blends moments of genuine terror with laugh-out-loud humour. This juxtaposition not only lightens the mood but also heightens the tension, making for a rollercoaster of emotions.
Theo James shines as the young boy who grows up to be a father, delivering a standout performance that balances panic with comedic timing. His reactions to the increasingly bizarre situations create a relatable character that audiences can root for, even as they chuckle at the absurdity unfolding around him. The supporting cast also excels, bringing a delightful mix of humour and fear that enhances the film’s charm.
As the film progresses, the dark comedy intensifies with a series of freakish deaths that characters encounter as a result of the monkey’s cursed nature. Each demise is not only shocking but often absurdly comedic, highlighting the film’s unique ability to blend horror and humour. For instance, one character’s wish for fame leads to an outlandish and over-the-top public mishap that results in an unexpected and hilarious demise. Another scene features a wish for a luxurious lifestyle that spirals into chaos, leading to a series of slapstick moments before a shocking conclusion. These freakish events serve as both a commentary on the consequences of greed and desire while providing audiences with a mix of gasps and guffaws.
When comparing The Monkey to other films in the horror-comedy genre, it finds itself in good company alongside cult classics like Evil Dead II and Shaun of the Dead. Both of these films expertly blend horror elements with humour, creating a balance that appeals to a wide audience. The Monkey successfully captures this spirit, utilizing its freakish deaths to evoke both laughter and shock, reminiscent of the over-the-top gore and comedic timing found in Sam Raimi’s work.
Additionally, The Monkey can be compared to Gremlins, a film that also features whimsical yet sinister creatures wreaking havoc due to the careless wishes of their owners. Like Gremlins, the film explores the consequences of unchecked desires and the chaos that ensues, but with a unique twist that incorporates a more modern comedic sensibility and darker undertones. The deaths in The Monkey are not just shocking; they are infused with a sense of irony and absurdity, making the film stand out in a genre that often relies on traditional horror tropes.
Another noteworthy comparison is to Happy Death Day, which also combines slasher elements with humour. While Happy Death Day focuses on a time-loop concept that leads to a mix of horror and comedy, The Monkey uses the cursed monkey figurine as a vehicle for its darkly comedic explorations of fate and consequences. Both films share a clever script that keeps audiences engaged, but The Monkey adds a layer of supernatural whimsy that sets it apart.
In terms of production quality, The Monkey excels with Perkins’s direction, which captures both the eerie and the comedic moments with finesse. The cinematography and visual effects contribute significantly to the overall ambiance of the film, creating an unsettling yet playful atmosphere. This attention to detail can be likened to the craftsmanship found in films like Tucker and Dale vs. Evil, which also masterfully blends horror with comedic elements while subverting expectations.
Overall, The Monkey carves out its niche within the horror-comedy genre by delivering not only laughs but also a thought-provoking narrative that echoes the cautionary tales often found in Stephen King’s works. The film’s ability to mix freakish deaths with humour, along with strong performances and a unique premise, positions it favourably among its peers. In a landscape filled with horror comedies, The Monkey stands out as a fresh and entertaining take, making it a must-watch for fans of both horror and comedy alike.
Opens in cinemas on 28 February.
-Dirk Lombard Fourie