Hey horror fans! Are you ready for a wild ride? This year has already brought us some thrilling scares, but one movie has truly taken the horror scene by storm: The Monkey. Based on Stephen King’s chilling short story and directed by the visionary Osgood Perkins, this film is not just a hit; it’s a cultural moment. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s dive into why The Monkey is making everyone talk!
What is The Monkey?
Okay, so what’s all the buzz about? The Monkey tells the story of twin brothers who stumble upon a creepy vintage toy monkey. Sounds innocent enough, right? Wrong! This isn’t just any old toy; it’s a harbinger of gruesome murders. The brothers try to ditch the cursed plaything, hoping to leave the terror behind, but, as you can guess, it’s not that simple. They eventually realize they have to face the evil toy head-on.
The movie is based on Stephen King’s 1980 short story from his collection, Skeleton Crew. If you’re a King fan, you know he has a knack for turning everyday objects into nightmare fuel. Skeleton Crew is a treasure trove of such stories, and The Monkey is a prime example.
The cast is incredible, featuring:
- Theo James
- Tatiana Maslany
- Elijah Wood
- Christian Convery
- Colin O’Brien
- Rohan Campbell
- Sarah Levy
And let’s give it up for Osgood Perkins, the director and writer, who brings his unique vision to this adaptation.
Box Office Success
Let’s talk numbers because they don’t lie. The Monkey has not only scared audiences but has also smashed records. It became the best-selling horror movie of 2025 in terms of early ticket sales. That’s right, folks; people were lining up (virtually, of course) to get their tickets!
Compared to other horror flicks released this year, like Presence, Companion, and Heart Eyes, The Monkey has soared above the competition. As of now, the movie has earned over $38 million worldwide.
Box office trackers initially estimated an opening between $15-25 million. But with such positive reviews and a killer marketing campaign, it could go even higher.
What does this mean for the rest of 2025? It sets a fantastic trend for the horror genre. We’ve got some exciting releases coming up, like M3GAN 2.0, Five Nights At Freddy’s 2, and Final Destination: Bloodlines. It looks like horror fans will be eating well this year!
Critical Reception
Critics are loving The Monkey, too! The movie boasts an 83% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The general consensus is that it’s clever and that Osgood Perkins is a true master of horror.
George Edelman called the film a “horror-comedy gem” and praised its “take on modern masculinity“. It’s always a win when a movie can make you laugh while simultaneously scaring you half to death!
Speaking of that blend, let’s talk about how the film balances horror and comedy. Is it the perfectly timed jokes? The absurd situations? Whatever it is, it’s working! This balance definitely adds to the film’s appeal, making it a hit with a broader audience.
Osgood Perkins: Solidifying Himself as a Horror Director
Osgood Perkins is no stranger to the horror scene. His previous film, Longlegs, was a massive success, becoming Neon’s highest-grossing film at the domestic box office and the highest-grossing independent movie of 2024.
Perkins has a unique directing style. He knows how to create tension, build atmosphere, and deliver scares that stick with you long after the credits roll. Plus, he’s got a knack for adapting Stephen King’s work, which is no small feat!
And keep an eye out for Perkins’ upcoming movie, Keeper, which will star Tatiana Maslany.
Themes and Analysis
The Monkey isn’t just about cheap scares; it also delves into some deeper themes. The review of The Monkey noted that it “cuts deep on life, death and manhood”. It also explores themes such as life, death, and manhood.
How does the movie compare to King’s original short story? What changes did Perkins make, and how do they impact the story? Also, the cast performances are worth noting. How well do the actors embody their characters, and is there good chemistry among them?
The Horror Genre in 2025
Let’s be real: horror is always a reliable genre at the box office. The success of The Monkey, along with other movies like Presence, Companion, and Heart Eyes, proves that people love a good scare.
Why is horror thriving right now? Maybe it’s the low-budget thrills, the creative storytelling, or the fact that we all love to be a little terrified. Whatever the reason, horror is here to stay.
Unique Elements and Fan Engagement
Did you know The Monkey has a post-credit scene? Without giving away any spoilers, let’s just say it’s worth sticking around for. It adds another layer to the story and might leave you with some lingering questions.
And, of course, the internet is buzzing with fan theories and interpretations of the movie’s plot. What hidden meanings have fans uncovered? It’s always fun to dive into these discussions and see what others are thinking.
Any behind-the-scenes info about the making of the movie? Were there any challenges during production? What creative decisions did the director and crew make? These details can give us a deeper appreciation for the film.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! The Monkey is not just the highest-grossing horror movie of 2025; it’s a testament to the power of Stephen King’s storytelling and Osgood Perkins’ direction. It’s a film that blends scares, laughs, and thought-provoking themes into one unforgettable experience.
If you haven’t seen it yet, what are you waiting for? Go watch The Monkey and let me know what you think. Happy watching, and try not to have nightmares!
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