The Monkey is a 2025 American dark comedy horror film written and directed by Osgood Perkins. Based on Stephen King’s 1980 short story, the film stars Theo James in a dual role as twin brothers, Hal and Bill Shelburn, whose lives are thrown into chaos by a cursed toy monkey. The film was released theatrically in the United States by Neon on February 21, 2025, and is currently available for streaming on Hulu.
The Monkey starts off strong in the beginning, introducing us to twin brothers and their mother with a well-balanced and engaging look into their childhood. The early part of the film is entertaining and grounded, even after the first death, which serves as the story’s main shock value and stands out as one of its most memorable moments.
The concept behind The Monkey is straightforward: it satirizes horror clichés commonly seen in films like Final Destination, where each death becomes increasingly absurd, unrealistic, and over-the-top. While this approach aims for dark comedy, it results in little real tension, relying instead on a ridiculous and silly premise. Additionally, the scares feel sporadic, and the narrative lacks the psychological depth needed to elevate the film into truly effective horror.
In the second half, the film’s pacing slows noticeably, weighed down by repetitive and dull dialogue that drags on until the disappointing, somber ending. On the plus side, the film’s atmosphere is strong, moody lighting, immersive sound design, and Nico Aguilar’s expertly executed cinematography all work together to support the narrative and enhance the overall mood.
Overall, The Monkey doesn’t offer anything new or groundbreaking, it’s a story we’ve seen many times before. However, if you’re already subscribed to Hulu and looking for something to pass the time, it might be worth adding to your watchlist. Just be sure to lower your expectations, set aside common sense, and enjoy it for what it is: a wacky, corny, and weirdly gruesome ride of absurdity.
