Stephen King’s 'The Monkey' Adaptation Receives Divisive Reviews for Its Gore-Driven Comedy

Osgood Perkins’ latest film blends slapstick violence and dark humor, but critics are split on its tonal execution and overall impact.

The film, based on a Stephen King short story, explores a cursed toy monkey that causes gruesome deaths whenever its key is turned.
Director Osgood Perkins, known for 'Longlegs,' opted for a comedic approach to the horror story, which some critics found misaligned with the source material.
Critics noted the film’s excessive reliance on cartoonish gore and hyperviolent deaths, which overshadow its narrative and emotional depth.
'The Monkey' has been praised for its marketing campaign but criticized for its inconsistent tone and lack of suspense or meaningful stakes.
The film is scheduled for release in U.S. and U.K. theaters on February 21, 2025, with expectations of commercial success despite mixed critical reception.