Detailed Movie Recap: The Monkey (2025)

Welcome to this in-depth recap of The Monkey, the 2025 horror-comedy directed by Osgood Perkins and adapted from Stephen King’s chilling short story. If you’re a fan of gore-soaked chaos, dark humor, and Stephen King’s knack for turning everyday objects into nightmares, this film delivers in spades. Starring Theo James in a dual role as twin brothers Hal and Bill Shelburne, The Monkey takes a simple premise—a cursed toy monkey that causes gruesome deaths—and spins it into a wild, bloody ride. Buckle up as we walk through the plot, from its shocking opening to its chaotic climax, while exploring the themes and character arcs that make this film a unique addition to King’s cinematic legacy.

Opening Scene: A Bloodied Warning

The film kicks off in 1999 with a gripping, tone-setting prologue. Petey Shelburne (Adam Scott), a pilot and the father of twin brothers Hal and Bill, stumbles into a pawn shop, drenched in blood and clutching a creepy wind-up toy monkey with a drum. His face is a mask of desperation as he warns the shop owner (Shafin Karim) that the monkey is cursed: “When it bangs its drum, everybody will be fucked to hell.” Before he can destroy the toy, the monkey’s drums start clanging, and chaos erupts. A chain reaction leads to the shop owner’s gruesome demise—disemboweled by a harpoon gun in a freak accident. This opening, described by Roger Ebert as a “brilliant tone-setter,” establishes the film’s black comedy register and the monkey’s malevolent power. It also hints at Petey’s tormented history with the toy, setting up the mystery of its curse.

Act 1: Childhood Trauma and the Monkey’s Curse

We flash back to the late 1990s, where young Hal and Bill Shelburne (both played by Christian Convery) live with their single mother, Lois (Tatiana Maslany), in a small town. Their father, Petey, abandoned them years ago, leaving behind a closet full of souvenirs from his travels. The twins, though identical, are polar opposites: Hal is shy, sensitive, and often bullied, while Bill is aggressive, smarmy, and quick to torment his brother. One day, while rummaging through their father’s belongings, Hal discovers a robin’s egg blue hatbox labeled “like life” (a phrase the boys assume means “lifelike”). Inside is the wind-up monkey, its eerie grin and staring eyes unsettling even in stillness.

Curious, Hal turns the key on the monkey’s back, but nothing happens immediately. Later, the twins go to a hibachi restaurant with their babysitter, Annie (Danica Dreyer), leaving the monkey in the car. As they enjoy their meal, the monkey’s drums suddenly clang from the parking lot. Moments later, the hibachi chef, flirting with Annie, accidentally decapitates her with his spatula in a horrifying “accident.” Her head lands on the grill, sizzling as the boys watch in shock. This scene, noted by CinemaBlend for its “pitch black sensibilities,” marks the first of many creative kills, blending gore with absurd humor.

Back at school, Bill’s bullying intensifies, rallying other kids to taunt Hal for carrying the monkey. In a fit of frustration, Hal winds the monkey’s key again, hoping it will target Bill. Instead, tragedy strikes at home. As Lois bakes a cake, the monkey’s drums sound, and she collapses, blood streaming from her face in what’s later described as a “boomerang aneurysm.” Bill, devastated, tries to wake her during her funeral, a heartbreaking moment that underscores the film’s undercurrent of grief. Hal, wracked with guilt, dismantles the monkey and disposes of its pieces, believing he’s ended its curse.

Act 2: A Temporary Reprieve and a Move to Maine

After Lois’ death, the twins are sent to live with their Aunt Ida (Sarah Levy) and Uncle Chip (Osgood Perkins) in Casco, Maine. The brothers, still reeling from their mother’s death, are haunted by the monkey’s influence. Mysteriously, the toy reappears in their new home, fully intact. Bill, skeptical of its power, winds the key despite Hal’s protests. The consequences are swift: during a camping trip, Uncle Chip is trampled to death by a stampede of wild horses, reduced to “chunky salsa” in a scene critics like those at ScreenRant call “gratuitously violent” yet darkly funny. Realizing the monkey’s curse is unstoppable, the twins chain its box shut and throw it down a well, hoping to bury it forever.

The film jumps forward 25 years to 2024. Hal and Bill (now both played by Theo James) are estranged. Hal lives alone, a “lonely and cowardly man” per Vulture, seeing his teenage son, Petey (Colin O’Brien), only once a year out of fear that the monkey’s curse will harm him. Hal learns that his ex-wife and her new husband, Ted (Elijah Wood), plan to adopt Petey, cutting Hal out of his son’s life. Meanwhile, Bill has become obsessed with the monkey, suspecting Hal caused Lois’ death to kill him. He hires a local loner, Ricky (Rohan Campbell), to retrieve the monkey from the well, believing whoever winds its key is immune to its next kill.

Act 3: The Monkey’s Return and Escalating Chaos

The monkey’s return sparks a new wave of carnage. Hal and Petey travel to Casco to settle Aunt Ida’s estate after her death, which we learn was another bizarre accident: Ida fell through her basement stairs, got fish hooks in her face, and ignited her head on a stove before impaling herself on a “for sale” sign. At Ida’s house, Hal encounters a perky real estate agent, Barbara (Tess Degenstein), who mentions recent “horrific accidents” in town. As they speak, a shotgun falls from a closet and blasts Barbara to pieces, with Hal comically getting a fingertip in his mouth. This scene, praised by The HoloFiles for its “sharp humor,” confirms the monkey’s reactivation.

Bill confronts Hal, revealing he’s been winding the monkey’s key, hoping to kill Hal in revenge for Lois’ death. The toy’s kills remain random, however, sparing Hal but claiming others, like a woman electrocuted in a pool and Ricky, who’s later killed by a swarm of wasps. In a tense standoff, Bill threatens to let Petey wind the key to protect him, forcing Hal to act. Ricky, obsessed with the monkey, holds Petey at gunpoint to retrieve it from Bill’s house. As Petey winds the key under duress, Ricky meets his gruesome end, and Hal and Bill face off.

Climax and Resolution: Confronting the Curse

The climax unfolds in a chaotic showdown at Ida’s house. Hal, determined to protect Petey, tries to destroy the monkey once more. The film’s final kill, described by Stephen King as one “you’re going to see for the rest of your f–king life,” involves Bill and the monkey in a darkly ironic twist. Hal and Petey escape, but the monkey’s fate is ambiguous. Unlike King’s short story, where Hal sinks the toy in Crystal Lake only to hear its cymbals and see dead fish, the film leans into comedy, ending with a post-credits teaser for Perkins’ next film, Keeper, rather than a definitive resolution.

Themes and Analysis

The Monkey explores death’s randomness and inevitability, a theme Perkins ties to his personal loss—his mother, Berry Berenson, died on 9/11. Roger Ebert notes this adds poignancy, though the film resists “explainer” culture, focusing on visceral chaos over deep commentary. The contentious relationship between Hal and Bill, a departure from King’s story, reflects sibling rivalry and unresolved guilt, with Hal’s passivity contrasting Bill’s aggression. Lois’ advice to “accept death, live in the moment, and dance” serves as the film’s emotional core, urging viewers to find meaning amid chaos.

Critics praise the film’s inventive kills—electrified pools, harpoons, and bowling balls—likening them to Final Destination but with a comedic edge. The HoloFiles calls it a “near perfect horror comedy,” while Vulture critiques its “gaping hole” of emotional depth. Theo James’ dual performance is a standout, adding nuance to the twins’ fractured bond. However, tonal inconsistencies, noted by Inverse and The i Paper, prevent the film from fully balancing its humor and tragedy.

The Monkey is a wild, gory romp that transforms King’s somber short story into a blood-soaked farce. From its shocking opening to its chaotic climax, it delivers creative kills and dark humor, anchored by Theo James’ compelling performance. While it may not plumb the emotional depths of Perkins’ Longlegs, its absurd take on mortality and family makes it a memorable horror-comedy. Whether you’re drawn to its unhinged violence or its meditation on life’s unpredictability, The Monkey is a film that, as one X post put it, is “for the sickos” who love a bloody, bananas ride.

Best Dialogues and Quotes from The Monkey (2025) with Breakdown

Welcome to this deep dive into the best dialogues and quotes from The Monkey (2025), the horror-comedy directed by Osgood Perkins and adapted from Stephen King’s chilling short story. This film, starring Theo James as twin brothers Hal and Bill Shelburne, transforms a simple premise—a cursed wind-up monkey toy that triggers gruesome deaths—into a wild ride of gore, dark humor, and emotional resonance. The dialogue is a key ingredient, blending suspense, wit, and heartbreak to bring the story to life. Below, I’ve curated the most memorable lines from the film, drawing from sources like IMDb, Motivation Maze, and Ranker, and provided detailed breakdowns to unpack their context, character significance, and philosophical depth. Whether you’re a Stephen King fan or just love a good horror-comedy, these quotes will give you a fresh perspective on The Monkey.

1. “The coroner said it was an accident, but it was no accident. It was a monkey.” – Hal Shelburne

Context: This line, delivered by Hal (Theo James) in a moment of grim realization, comes as he reflects on the series of deaths tied to the monkey toy. After their babysitter Annie is decapitated at a hibachi restaurant and their mother Lois suffers a fatal aneurysm, Hal connects the dots: the monkey’s drumbeats precede every tragedy. Spoken in adulthood, this quote captures Hal’s growing awareness of the toy’s malevolent power and his guilt over its role in their family’s losses.

Breakdown:

• Narrative Role: This quote is a pivotal moment in Hal’s arc, marking his shift from denial to acceptance of the monkey’s curse. It’s a succinct summary of the film’s central conflict: the toy’s ability to orchestrate “accidents” that are anything but random. The line’s blunt delivery, as noted by Ranker, underscores Hal’s frustration and fear, setting up his determination to confront the curse.
• Character Insight: Hal’s statement reveals his sensitive, introspective nature, contrasting with Bill’s aggressive denial. His acknowledgment of the monkey’s agency shows his willingness to face the truth, even when it’s terrifying. This sets up his role as the brother who seeks to end the curse, despite his fear of failure.
• Philosophical Depth: The line echoes existentialist themes, particularly the struggle to find meaning in seemingly random events. By rejecting the “accident” label, Hal grapples with the idea that chaos (embodied by the monkey) might govern life. It’s a nod to Stephen King’s recurring motif of ordinary objects becoming conduits for cosmic horror, forcing characters to confront the absurdity of mortality.
• Impact: The quote’s stark simplicity makes it chilling, as noted by fans on Reddit, who praised its “morbid clarity.” It encapsulates the film’s blend of horror and dark comedy, turning a ridiculous premise into a haunting truth.

2. “The monkey that likes killing our family, it’s back. It must be vanquished.” – Bill Shelburne

Context: Bill (Theo James) delivers this line to Hal over the phone in 2024, years after they thought they’d destroyed the monkey by throwing it down a well. The toy’s reappearance, tied to new deaths like Aunt Ida’s bizarre accident, reignites Bill’s obsession with eliminating it. His commanding tone reflects his belief that he can control the curse, setting up the brothers’ tense reunion.

Breakdown:

• Narrative Role: This quote propels the film’s third act, forcing Hal and Bill to reunite and face their past. Bill’s declaration, as highlighted by IMDb, is both a call to action and a revelation of his lingering trauma, driving the plot toward its chaotic climax. It underscores the monkey’s persistence, a classic King trope where evil refuses to stay buried.
• Character Insight: Bill’s aggressive phrasing—“it must be vanquished”—reveals his domineering personality and his need to assert control over the uncontrollable. Unlike Hal, who fears the monkey, Bill sees it as a challenge to his ego, reflecting his childhood bullying tendencies. Theo James’ performance, praised by The HoloFiles, adds a layer of desperation beneath Bill’s bravado.
• Philosophical Depth: The line touches on the stoic idea of confronting inevitable evils head-on. Bill’s determination to “vanquish” the monkey mirrors the human desire to impose order on chaos, yet his failure to understand its randomness (as noted in Roger Ebert’s review) highlights the futility of such efforts. It’s a commentary on hubris and the limits of control in the face of fate.
• Impact: Fans on Ranker voted this as a top quote for its intensity and narrative weight, capturing Bill’s single-minded mission. Its darkly humorous edge—calling a toy a family-killing menace—fits the film’s tone, making it memorable for its absurdity and stakes.

3. “For the longest time, there was nothing. But then it appeared. A beast not from this Earth.” – Hal Shelburne

Context: Hal narrates this eerie line in a voiceover, reflecting on the monkey’s sudden appearance in their lives. Spoken as an adult, it accompanies a montage of the brothers’ childhood, showing the moment Hal finds the monkey in their father’s hatbox. The supernatural tone suggests Hal’s belief that the toy is more than a mere object—it’s an otherworldly force.

Breakdown:

• Narrative Role: This quote sets the film’s supernatural atmosphere, framing the monkey as a cosmic horror. It appears early, during the flashback to the twins’ discovery, and reappears in Hal’s adult reflections, emphasizing the toy’s enduring hold over him. Quoteller notes its “chilling gravitas,” tying it to the film’s dread-filled tone.
• Character Insight: Hal’s poetic language reveals his introspective and almost mystical view of the monkey, contrasting with Bill’s pragmatic hostility. It shows his sensitivity and tendency to see deeper meaning in events, a trait that defines his cautious approach to the curse. Theo James’ delivery, per CinemaBlend, adds a haunting weight to the line.
• Philosophical Depth: The quote aligns with existentialist themes of confronting the unknown. By calling the monkey a “beast not from this Earth,” Hal grapples with the inexplicable, echoing King’s fascination with ordinary objects as gateways to cosmic terror. It also reflects the Jungian idea of the shadow—unseen forces within us that manifest as external threats.
• Impact: This line resonates for its poetic horror, as noted by Quoteller, making it a fan favorite for its ability to elevate a toy into a mythic threat. It’s a perfect encapsulation of the film’s blend of the mundane and the supernatural, leaving audiences unsettled.

4. “Who’s smiling now, you infernal son of a whore?” – Captain Petey Shelburne

Context: Petey Shelburne (Adam Scott), the twins’ father, shouts this line in the film’s opening scene as he attempts to burn the monkey with a flamethrower in a pawn shop. Covered in blood and desperate, Petey’s rage comes after years of the monkey’s deadly influence, culminating in his attempt to destroy it before it claims more lives. The attempt fails when the monkey’s drums trigger another death.

Breakdown:

• Narrative Role: This quote opens the film with a bang, establishing Petey’s tormented history with the monkey and its unstoppable nature. IMDb highlights it as a fan-favorite for its raw energy, setting the stage for the twins’ inherited curse. It also foreshadows the futility of fighting the toy directly.
• Character Insight: Petey’s profanity-laced outburst reveals his desperation and rage, humanizing him as a father who failed to protect his family. Adam Scott’s performance, per ScreenRant, balances pathos and intensity, making Petey a tragic figure whose actions echo in his sons’ lives.
• Philosophical Depth: The line reflects the human struggle against malevolent forces, akin to the myth of Sisyphus pushing against an unyielding fate. Petey’s attempt to destroy the monkey symbolizes defiance in the face of inevitable loss, a theme Perkins ties to his own grief (as noted by Roger Ebert). It’s a raw expression of rage against death’s randomness.
• Impact: The quote’s visceral language and dark humor make it a standout, with Reddit fans calling it “hilariously unhinged.” It captures the film’s tone—equal parts absurd and tragic—making it a memorable kickoff to the chaos.

5. “My mom says he skipped town to go chase pussy, but I’m just like—we have pussy here, ya know?” – Petey (Teen)

Context: Teen Petey (Colin O’Brien), Hal’s son, delivers this crude, comedic line to his father during a rare visit in 2024. Referring to Hal’s absence from his life, Petey’s blunt remark reflects his resentment and the strained father-son dynamic caused by Hal’s fear of the monkey’s curse. The line lands with awkward humor, lightening the film’s tension.

Breakdown:

• Narrative Role: This quote, cited on Reddit, provides a moment of levity amid the film’s gore, showcasing Perkins’ knack for dark comedy. It occurs during a quiet scene where Hal tries to reconnect with Petey, only to face his son’s sharp wit, highlighting their emotional distance.
• Character Insight: Petey’s brash delivery reveals his teenage angst and hurt over Hal’s absence, masking vulnerability with humor. It contrasts Hal’s guilt-ridden caution, showing how the monkey’s curse has fractured their family across generations. Colin O’Brien’s delivery, per Vulture, adds authenticity to Petey’s rebellious streak.
• Philosophical Depth: The line touches on the theme of abandonment and the ripple effects of fear. Hal’s choice to distance himself from Petey to “protect” him mirrors the stoic idea of sacrificing personal connections to avoid pain, but it backfires, creating resentment. It’s a lighthearted yet poignant jab at familial neglect.
• Impact: Reddit fans loved this quote for its “unexpected hilarity,” noting how it breaks the horror’s intensity with a dose of teen snark. It’s a perfect example of the film’s tonal balance, making a heavy moment feel human and relatable.

6. “Whoever controls it, controls life and death.” – Hal Shelburne

Context: Hal utters this chilling line late in the film, as he and Bill confront the monkey’s power during their final showdown. Realizing the toy’s kills are tied to whoever winds its key, Hal grapples with the moral weight of wielding such power. The line comes as he debates whether to destroy the monkey or use it against Bill.

Breakdown:

• Narrative Role: This quote, from Quoteller, marks a climactic moment where Hal faces the ethical dilemma of the monkey’s curse. It heightens the stakes, as controlling the toy means deciding who lives or dies, pushing the brothers toward their final conflict. It’s a turning point that underscores the monkey’s godlike influence.
• Character Insight: Hal’s recognition of the monkey’s power shows his growth from a passive victim to someone wrestling with agency. Unlike Bill, who wants to exploit the toy, Hal’s hesitation reflects his moral compass, making him the film’s emotional anchor. Theo James’ nuanced delivery, per The HoloFiles, conveys Hal’s inner turmoil.
• Philosophical Depth: The line evokes existential questions about free will and responsibility. By framing the monkey as a controller of “life and death,” it parallels philosophical debates about fate versus choice, reminiscent of Nietzsche’s ideas on power and morality. It asks whether true control is possible in a chaotic universe.
• Impact: This quote stands out for its weighty implications, as noted by Quoteller, resonating with audiences for its blend of horror and moral complexity. It’s a stark reminder of the film’s deeper questions about power and consequence, making it a fan favorite for philosophical horror fans.

The dialogues and quotes from The Monkey (2025) are a masterclass in blending horror, comedy, and emotional depth. From Hal’s chilling realization that “it was no accident” to Petey’s snarky jab about his father’s absence, these lines capture the film’s unique tone and its exploration of grief, guilt, and the randomness of death. They drive the narrative, reveal character nuances, and invite reflection on life’s unpredictability, making The Monkey a standout in Stephen King’s cinematic canon. Whether you’re drawn to the existential dread of Hal’s musings or the absurd humor of Petey’s quips, these quotes linger, much like the monkey’s curse itself. Which line hit you the hardest? Let it sink in, and maybe keep an eye on your old toys—just in case.

Interesting and Lesser-Known Facts About The Monkey (2025)

The Monkey (2025), directed by Osgood Perkins, is a wild, bloody ride that transforms Stephen King’s 1980 short story into a horror-comedy spectacle. Starring Theo James as twin brothers Hal and Bill Shelburne, the film follows their battle with a cursed drum-playing monkey toy that unleashes gruesome deaths. With a mix of inventive kills, dark humor, and poignant family drama, it’s a standout in King’s cinematic adaptations. Below, we uncover lesser-known facts, behind-the-scenes secrets, Easter eggs, the psychology behind the film, and its cultural impact and legacy, drawing on insights from IMDb, Roger Ebert, Collider, and more. Whether you’re a Stephen King devotee or a horror-comedy enthusiast, these tidbits will deepen your appreciation of this chaotic gem.

Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

1. Disney’s Copyright Forced a Creative Change
   Disney’s copyright on a cymbal-playing monkey from Toy Story 3 (2010) prevented Perkins from using the original cymbal-playing monkey from King’s story. As revealed on The King Cast podcast, the team redesigned the toy as a drum-playing monkey to avoid legal issues, giving it a unique, grimy aesthetic with a red vest and eerie grin. This change, noted by @DeclouxJ on X, added a distinct visual flair, making the monkey a tactile, creepy centerpiece.
2. Perkins’ Personal Connection to Grief
   Perkins infused the film with personal meaning, drawing from the loss of his mother, Berry Berenson, who died on 9/11. Roger Ebert notes that this experience shaped the film’s meditation on death’s randomness, with Perkins stating in a Variety interview, “I think that if I had written this movie when I was 29, it would have been pretty sad. But now that I’m 51, it’s a pretty funny movie.” This shift in perspective turned the film into a darkly comedic exploration of grief, setting it apart from King’s somber original.
3. Neon’s Risky Marketing Strategy
   Neon’s marketing campaign was bold and unconventional, with the trailer amassing over 100 million views in 72 hours, making it “the most watched independent horror film trailer ever,” per Deadline Hollywood. However, four major TV networks rejected the trailer for its “excessive violence,” forcing Neon to rely heavily on online buzz. They also partnered with Bloody Disgusting for a giveaway of a resin monkey sculpture and offered churches permission to screen the film alongside theaters, a quirky move to broaden its audience.
4. Osgood Perkins’ Cameo and Family Ties
   Perkins cast himself as Uncle Chip, who meets a grisly end via a horse stampede, and included his daughter, Beatrix Perkins, in a small role. This mirrors the film’s theme of family legacy, as Perkins’ father, Anthony Perkins (Psycho), also faced personal struggles that influenced his work. The inclusion of family members added a personal touch, though it’s a subtle detail not widely publicized.
5. Improvised Humor in Kill Scenes
   Some of the film’s most memorable death scenes, like the real estate agent Barbara’s shotgun mishap, included improvised comedic beats. Theo James revealed in a Collider interview that he ad-libbed spitting out a fingertip after the blast, enhancing the scene’s absurd humor. This spontaneity contributed to the film’s campy tone, balancing its gore with laughs.

Trivia

1. First Feature Film Adaptation of the Story
   The Monkey is the first feature film adaptation of King’s 1980 short story from Skeleton Crew. Previous adaptations were limited to TV, making this a significant milestone. The film expands the story’s scope, adding a sibling rivalry and modern setting, unlike the original’s simpler narrative.
2. Shot in Record Time
   Filming wrapped in just 35 days in Vancouver, Canada, a tight schedule for a film with complex death scenes and practical effects. The rapid production, noted by Movie Insider, was possible due to Perkins’ precise direction and the cast’s commitment, particularly Theo James juggling dual roles.
3. Budget Efficiency
   With a modest $10–11 million budget, the film grossed $68.6 million worldwide, a testament to Neon’s lean production model. The use of practical effects for most kills, like the electrified pool explosion, kept costs low while maximizing visual impact, as praised by Roger Ebert.
4. Perkins’ Collaboration with James Wan
   The film marks the first collaboration between Perkins and producer James Wan, known for The Conjuring. Wan’s influence pushed for more elaborate death sequences, inspired by Final Destination, which Perkins tailored to his darkly comedic vision. This partnership elevated the film’s spectacle, per The HoloFiles.
5. Limited CGI for the Monkey
   Unlike many modern horror films, The Monkey relied heavily on a physical prop for the titular toy, crafted to look aged and unsettling. Only minor CGI was used for its movements, ensuring a tactile, creepy presence that critics like Vulture called “grotesquely toy-like.”

Easter Eggs

1. Stephen King Universe References
   The film is packed with nods to King’s works, as detailed by Collider. The babysitter, Annie Wilkes, shares her name with the villain from Misery. A teacher named Mrs. Torrance references The Shining’s Wendy or Jack Torrance. A phonebook entry for “Moleman, H.” hints at Hans Moleman from The Simpsons, a playful non-King nod. A golfer’s death by an exotic snake recalls “Autopsy Room Four” from Everything’s Eventual.
2. Needful Things Connection
   A Reddit theory suggests the monkey originates from Needful Things, where Hal’s father, Petey, sold his soul to acquire it at Leland Gaunt’s shop. This explains the toy’s persistent return to the Shelburne family, tying it to King’s broader universe. The film’s opening scene, where Petey tries to return the monkey, supports this, though it’s left ambiguous.
3. No Food After Midnight Sign
   A motel sign reading “No Food After Midnight” is a cheeky nod to Gremlins (1984), reinforcing the film’s playful tone. This Easter egg, noted on TV Tropes, aligns with the campy horror-comedy vibe, connecting The Monkey to other ’80s horror classics.
4. Chekhov’s Bowling Ball
   As a child, Hal imagines killing Bill with their mother’s bowling ball. In the climax, Bill dies when a trap he rigged with the same bowling ball backfires, crushing his head. This subtle Chekhov’s Gun, highlighted by TV Tropes, rewards attentive viewers with a satisfying payoff.
5. Perkins’ Signature Style
   Fans of Perkins’ Longlegs will notice visual Easter eggs, like the use of deep shadows and expressionistic lighting, as noted by Roger Ebert. A flickering attic scene mirrors a similar setup in Longlegs, tying the films stylistically and rewarding Perkins’ fans with a familiar aesthetic.

Psychology Behind the Film

1. Grief and Randomness of Death
   The film’s core theme, as Perkins shared with Variety, is the unpredictable nature of death, inspired by his mother’s death on 9/11. Psychologically, it taps into existential anxiety about mortality’s randomness, using the monkey’s arbitrary kills to mirror real-life fears of sudden loss. The absurd humor, like a woman’s head igniting, helps audiences process this fear through laughter, a coping mechanism known as gallows humor.
2. Sibling Rivalry and Guilt
   The strained dynamic between Hal and Bill reflects psychological themes of sibling rivalry and unresolved guilt. Hal’s passivity and Bill’s aggression stem from their mother’s death, which Hal feels responsible for after winding the monkey’s key. This mirrors real-world family dynamics where trauma exacerbates conflict, as noted by Outlook India, making the film relatable to those navigating familial estrangement.
3. Fear of Inanimate Objects
   The monkey exploits a primal fear of inanimate objects coming to life, a psychological phenomenon tied to animism and the uncanny valley. By giving the toy a malevolent presence, the film amplifies this fear, as discussed in BiblioLifestyle, making everyday objects seem threatening and tapping into childhood anxieties about toys.
4. Trauma’s Lasting Impact
   The film explores how childhood trauma lingers into adulthood, a theme Perkins emphasizes through Hal’s fear of harming his son, Petey. This resonates with psychological studies on intergenerational trauma, where unresolved pain affects future relationships. The narrative’s focus on Hal’s protective instincts grounds the horror in real emotional stakes, per Never Think Impossible.
5. Humor as a Defense Mechanism
   The film’s dark comedy serves as a psychological buffer against its gruesome deaths. By making kills absurd—like hornets swarming down Ricky’s throat—the film allows viewers to laugh at horror, reducing anxiety. This aligns with theories of humor as a defense mechanism, enabling audiences to confront death’s inevitability without despair, as Roger Ebert suggests.

Impact and Legacy

1. Box Office Success
   Grossing $68.6 million worldwide on a $10–11 million budget, The Monkey was a financial hit for Neon, outperforming expectations with $39.7 million in the U.S. and Canada. Its opening weekend of $17 million, boosted by early screenings at Beyond Fest, cemented its commercial appeal, per Movie Insider.
2. Critical Reception and Debate
   The film earned a 79% on Rotten Tomatoes, praised for its inventive kills and Theo James’ dual performance but criticized for tonal inconsistencies and lacking the depth of Perkins’ Longlegs. Critics like Peter Travers called it a “dream team of fright masters,” while Inverse noted its “tonal haphazardness.” This sparked debates among fans on Reddit about its horror-comedy balance, shaping its polarizing yet memorable reception.
3. Influence on Horror-Comedy
   The Monkey set a benchmark for blending gore with humor in King adaptations, paving the way for future horror-comedies. Its Final Destination-style kills and campy tone, as noted by IMDb, inspired discussions about reviving absurd horror tropes, influencing projects like James Wan’s upcoming works.
4. Cultural Resonance
   The film’s viral trailer and online buzz, including Neon’s resin monkey giveaway, made it a cultural moment, especially among King fans. Posts on X hailed it as “for the sickos,” reflecting its cult appeal for those who love unhinged horror. Its exploration of family trauma resonated with audiences, as BiblioLifestyle noted, cementing its place in King’s cinematic legacy.
5. Legacy in King Adaptations
   As the first feature film adaptation of The Monkey, it expanded King’s short story into a broader narrative, adding sibling dynamics and modern humor. Its success, per Collider, encourages riskier adaptations of lesser-known King works, potentially influencing projects like Skeleton Crew adaptations. The post-credits teaser for Perkins’ Keeper also hints at a growing Perkins cinematic universe, a rare feat in horror.

The Monkey (2025) is more than a gore-fest; it’s a darkly funny, emotionally layered addition to Stephen King’s cinematic canon. From Disney’s copyright forcing a drum-playing monkey to Perkins’ personal grief shaping its themes, the behind-the-scenes secrets reveal a labor of love. Easter eggs like Misery and The Shining nods delight fans, while the film’s psychology—exploring grief, guilt, and the uncanny—makes it universally resonant. Its legacy as a box office hit and a polarizing horror-comedy ensures it’ll be remembered as a bold, bananas ride. So, next time you see a vintage toy, maybe check if it’s got drums—and keep your distance.

Reception and Reviews for The Monkey (2025)

The Monkey (2025), directed by Osgood Perkins and adapted from Stephen King’s 1980 short story, is a horror-comedy that revels in gory chaos and dark humor. Featuring Theo James in dual roles as twin brothers Hal and Bill Shelburne, the film centers on a cursed drum-playing monkey toy that unleashes violent deaths. Released by Neon on February 21, 2025, it became a commercial hit, grossing $68.6 million worldwide. However, its reception is sharply divided, earning critical praise for its inventive kills and bold tone but mixed audience reactions due to unmet expectations and tonal inconsistencies. Below, we explore the film’s critical reception, audience response, notable reviews, and awards status, drawing on sources like Rotten Tomatoes, IMDb, and The Guardian.

Critical Reception

The Monkey holds a 79% “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 128 reviews as of May 22, 2025, reflecting strong critical approval. Critics lauded its “fiendishly clever” approach and “unforgettably gory set pieces,” with many praising Perkins’ ability to blend horror with a “surprising—albeit sick—sense of humor.” The film’s comparison to Final Destination for its creative, over-the-top deaths was a recurring theme, with outlets like Mama’s Geeky calling it “Final Destination on crack, over the top in the very best way.” However, critics noted flaws, including a “rocky road tonally” and a lack of emotional depth, with some arguing it leaned too heavily into nihilistic humor.

Key Critical Points

• Strengths: Critics celebrated the film’s bold vision, with Collider’s Perri Nemiroff calling it “a super bloody blast” that cements Perkins’ unique take on King’s story. The inventive death scenes—such as an electrified pool explosion, a harpoon disembowelment, and a head-crushing bowling ball—were highlights, often described as “gleefully violent” and “hilariously demented.” Theo James’ dual performance as Hal and Bill was widely praised for adding vulnerability to thinly written characters, with IGN noting his ability to balance “deadpan paranoia and arrested development.”
• Weaknesses: Some critics found the film’s tone inconsistent, with Vulture labeling it “kinda boring” due to its “gaping hole” of emotional resonance and reliance on “rote archetypes.” The Guardian called it a “slapdash splatter comedy” and a “grating misfire,” criticizing its juvenile humor and failure to match the psychological depth of Perkins’ Longlegs. Others, like 3 Brothers Film, argued the repetitive gore became “exhausting” and lacked the creativity of Final Destination’s setups, with a “thuddingly literal-minded” visual style clashing with the campy content.
• Comparison to Longlegs: Many reviews compared The Monkey to Perkins’ 2024 hit Longlegs, noting its lighter, more comedic tone as a deliberate departure. Loud And Clear Reviews praised this shift, stating Perkins made a “complete 180” from Longlegs’ eerie thriller to a “vibrant, lively slapstick horror film.” However, ScreenRant noted that, like Longlegs, The Monkey’s marketing overhyped expectations, leading to audience disappointment.

Box Office Context

The film opened with $14.2 million domestically, the second-biggest opening for a Neon film after Longlegs, and grossed $39.7 million in the U.S. and Canada, with $28.9 million internationally, totaling $68.6 million. Its financial success, against a $10–11 million budget, underscores its appeal despite mixed reviews, driven by Neon’s viral marketing campaign, which garnered over 100 million trailer views in 72 hours.

Audience Response

Audience reception is notably more divisive, with a 60% Popcornmeter score on Rotten Tomatoes and a C+ CinemaScore, indicating a lukewarm response. Many viewers felt misled by the trailers, which promised intense horror but delivered a dark comedy with absurd kills. Reddit and X posts reflect this split, with some fans embracing the “fucking BANANAS” chaos and others decrying it as a “complete disaster.”

Audience Sentiments

• Positive Reactions: Fans who enjoyed the film, particularly horror-comedy enthusiasts, praised its unapologetic gore and humor. A Reddit user called it a “perfect interpretation of how Stephen King writes characters,” noting its “fabulous” look and laugh-out-loud moments. On X, @mcumagik hailed it as a “sicko banger for the freaks,” emphasizing the “creative, bonkers” kills. Viewers at packed screenings, as noted by Love Horror, reported cackling and screaming together, suggesting the film thrives in communal settings.
• Negative Reactions: Many casual moviegoers felt the film lacked depth and coherence. An IMDb reviewer compared it to Twilight Zone episodes but criticized its “over-the-top unrealistic” deaths and unlikable characters, calling it a “cheap slasher movie” aimed at teens. Another Reddit post gave it a “0-star rating,” lamenting the underwritten story and fake-looking makeup effects. The C+ CinemaScore reflects this disappointment, with ScreenRant suggesting audiences expected a scarier, more serious horror film like Longlegs.
• Marketing Mismatch: Neon’s intense marketing, which some networks rejected for excessive violence, built expectations for a traditional horror film. An IMDb reviewer noted, “If you’ve seen the trailers, you’ve already seen 90% of the suspense,” highlighting how the film’s comedic shift surprised and alienated some viewers.

Notable Reviews

Several reviews stand out for their insight into The Monkey’s strengths and flaws, capturing its polarizing nature:

1. Roger Ebert (Brian Tallerico): Rated 2.5/4, calling it a “clever flick” that pushes against “explainer” culture with its focus on random cruelty. Tallerico ties the film to Perkins’ personal loss—his mother’s death on 9/11—adding poignancy to its nihilistic humor. He praises the “brilliant tone-setter” prologue with Adam Scott and the inventive kills, like an electrified pool, but notes the film’s lighter tone compared to Longlegs.
2. Collider (Perri Nemiroff): Describes it as “a super bloody blast” with “gleefully violent kill scenes” that earn “holy sh*t” responses. Nemiroff lauds Perkins’ bold vision, making the film distinctly his own, though she acknowledges its lighter tone may not suit all horror fans.
3. Vulture (Angelica Jade Bastién): A harsh critique, calling it “kinda boring” with “no soul” despite good kills. Bastién argues the film’s nihilistic air and lack of emotional depth make it the “worst thing a horror movie can be,” failing to balance comedy and heart.
4. The Guardian (Positive): Praises Perkins’ “terrifyingly brilliant toy story” for its eerie, emotionally profound take on fear and grief, contrasting with another Guardian review that called it a “tiresome, juvenile” misfire.
5. Flickering Myth (Robert Kojder): Rates it 3/5, calling it a “bonkers black comedy with a black heart” that’s “more moving than it has any right to be.” Kojder appreciates the balance of gratuitous kills and pathos, especially Hal’s fear-driven distance from his son, Petey.
6. IGN: Labels it “one of the best horror-comedies in recent memory,” exploding with “gory kills and big laughs.” The review highlights James’ entertaining performance as Bill and the film’s embrace of death’s costs, though it notes the characters’ lack of depth.
7. Reddit (u/Studio-7-FilmMedia): A negative take, urging viewers to “save your money” due to a nonsensical ending and overemphasis on bizarre deaths that overshadow deeper themes. This reflects audience frustration with the film’s chaotic execution.

Awards and Nominations

As of May 22, 2025, The Monkey has not received major awards or nominations, likely due to its early release and genre status, which often sees recognition at specialized festivals rather than mainstream ceremonies. NTU Film Society explicitly states it’s unlikely to “snag any Oscars,” but its “spectacle” and cult appeal could position it for awards at horror-focused events like Fangoria Chainsaw Awards or Saturn Awards, where Perkins’ Longlegs garnered attention. The film’s strong critical reception and box office performance suggest potential for nominations in categories like Best Horror Film, Best Actor (Theo James), or Best Visual Effects for its practical gore, though no confirmations exist yet.

Analysis of Reception

The divide between critics and audiences stems from expectations set by Neon’s marketing and Perkins’ Longlegs. Critics, familiar with Perkins’ style, appreciated his shift to a lighter, more absurd tone, with The Direct noting early reactions called it “outlandishly demented.” Audiences, however, often expected a straight horror film, leading to disappointment when faced with its Deadpool-like humor and Final Destination-style kills. The film’s exploration of grief and family trauma, tied to Perkins’ personal experience, resonated with critics like Loud And Clear Reviews, who praised its commentary on unaddressed grief, but some viewers found these themes buried under excessive gore.

Posts on X reflect this split, with @BriAnimator_ praising the “funny as hell” comedy and “cool” dream sequences after multiple viewings, while others felt misled by the horror billing. The film’s C+ CinemaScore, lower than typical for horror hits, suggests casual viewers found it “hardly passable,” per ScreenRant. Its $14.2 million opening and $68.6 million global gross indicate commercial success, likely driven by King’s brand and Neon’s buzz, but the 60% audience score shows it didn’t universally satisfy.

Conclusion

The Monkey (2025) is a divisive yet impactful addition to Stephen King’s cinematic legacy, earning a 79% critical approval for its gory, comedic chaos but a mixed 60% audience score due to tonal mismatches and unmet expectations. Critics like IGN and Collider celebrated its “bonkers” kills and Theo James’ performance, while Vulture and some Reddit users found it shallow and over-the-top. With no major awards yet, its cult potential and box office success suggest a lasting niche appeal, especially for horror-comedy fans. Whether you find it a “bloody blast” or a “grating misfire,” The Monkey is a bold, unapologetic ride that’s sparked passionate debate—and maybe a few nightmares about wind-up toys.