The Monkey? Steven says 4/5

Osgood Perkins really said, “what if I did the exact opposite of Longlegs?” And honestly, I respect it. The Monkey is an unhinged, gory, darkly hilarious ride that feels like Perkins throwing caution (and a lot of fake blood) to the wind. If Longlegs was a slow-burn psychological nightmare, The Monkey is the drunk cousin at a family gathering who starts a fight and somehow makes it everyone’s problem. And I mean that in the best way.

One of my favorite parts? The first half plays out as a flashback, which I wasn’t expecting but loved. It set everything up in a way that made the chaos of the second half hit even harder. But let’s be real—the actual plot? Kinda meh. With a premise as insane as a demonic cymbal-clapping monkey causing absolute carnage, I wanted things to get even crazier. It plays things a little too safe in terms of story, but when it comes to the kills? Oh, this movie does not hold back.

The dark humor and gore? Top-tier. Some of the deaths had me gasping like I was watching Final Destination for the first time. Just pure, over-the-top insanity. Theo James? Ate (obviously). But the dialogue? Some jokes landed, others felt a little forced, but overall, the movie knows exactly what it is and doesn’t try to be anything else.

If you’re looking for a movie with deep themes or emotional weight…girl, this is not that. But if you want something fun, messy, and entertaining as hell? The Monkey delivers. Just go in with the right expectations, and you’ll have a blast.

Curious about what else Steven is into? Get updates on shelf.im/stevenmorea