The Monkey (2025)
Rating: 8 of 10 Stars
The Monkey brings a classic Stephen King short story to the big screen with a combination of horror, humor, and just enough creepiness to keep you wondering if your childhood toys are secretly plotting your demise. Directed by Osgood Perkins, this 2025 film adaptation of King's 1980 story delivers a quirky, gory take on an unsettling premise - a cursed toy monkey that may or may not be the source of some seriously bad luck.
Theo James and Tatiana Maslany play the adult versions of brothers Hal and Bill, who are haunted by a childhood encounter with a sinister toy monkey that has the unfortunate habit of smashing its cymbals to signal impending doom. As they grow older, they discover that the toy's powers haven't exactly gone away. The brothers - alongside Hal's son, Petey - must face their fears (and a lot of blood) when the monkey once again rears its grotesque, grin-inducing head.
What stands out in The Monkey is its unusual mix of humor and horror. The film doesn't take itself too seriously, leaning into dark comedy with each gruesome death. Whether it's a victim meeting their end in an absurdly exaggerated fashion or a suspenseful moment punctuated by an unexpected joke, Perkins maintains a fine balance between the terror and the ridiculous. It's as though the film is giving a knowing wink to the audience, asking, "Yeah, you're scared, but don't you also think this is a little silly?"
Visually, The Monkey is a feast for fans of macabre visuals. The cursed toy is genuinely creepy, and while the plot doesn't break any new ground in terms of originality, it's the execution that keeps you invested. It's a ride of gore, bizarre humor, and a relentless monkey that always seems to be one step ahead of everyone. And let's face it - there's something inherently funny about watching a toy that's supposed to be innocent bring chaos to every room it enters.
On the downside, the film occasionally trips over its pacing. Some moments drag, and the film's tone can shift abruptly between emotional drama and over-the-top horror, which might leave some viewers feeling a little whiplash. But for those who enjoy a healthy dose of campiness with their horror, this won't be a deal-breaker.
Overall, The Monkey is a fun, bloody romp that doesn't take itself too seriously. It's equal parts horrifying and absurd, a unique blend of Stephen King's sinister world and a dash of dark humor. Whether you're in it for the chills, the laughs, or just to see how a cursed toy can ruin a family, The Monkey delivers in a way only King could inspire. Just don't go looking for a new toy monkey for your kid after the credits roll - it's probably safer to stick with the stuffed animals.
I’m Rae Serbeck, I Watch and Review all movies Large and Small!
