Osgood Perkins' 'The Monkey' Premieres With Mixed Reviews

Osgood Perkins' film 'The Monkey,' adapted from Stephen King's short story, follows twins Hal and Bill as they confront a cursed toy monkey that brings death upon those who wind it. The film diverges significantly from the original story, focusing more on themes of generational trauma and fatherhood, with Hal reflecting on the horrors passed down from their absent father. The movie blends dark comedy and horror, featuring increasingly gory deaths as the monkey wreaks havoc, a stark contrast to the more subdued fates in the source material. Perkins' creative choices, including changing the monkey's actions from clanging cymbals to beating a drum, highlight a unique narrative style. The film has been noted for its humor, although some critiques mention that certain comedic elements feel heavy-handed. Overall, 'The Monkey' is characterized as a blend of absurdist horror and commentary on familial legacies.