The Monkey (2025) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Horror fans, rejoice! A brand-new adaptation of Stephen King’s short story, The Monkey, has arrived, bringing a mix of terror, dark humor, and brutal carnage. Directed by Osgood Perkins (Longlegs, The Blackcoat’s Daughter), this film dives deep into supernatural horror, family trauma, and the inevitability of death. But does it live up to King’s chilling legacy? Let’s break it down in this The Monkey (2025) movie review and explore where to watch it online.
The Monkey (2025) – Plot Summary
Twin brothers Hal and Bill Shelburne discover an eerie wind-up toy monkey in their childhood home’s attic. Initially, it seems like a harmless relic, but soon after, a series of gruesome and inexplicable deaths begin occurring around them. As they grow older and drift apart, the nightmare resurfaces 25 years later when the cursed toy returns, forcing them to confront their haunted past.
With every beat of its tiny cymbals, death follows. And this time, there’s no escaping its grasp.
A Disappointing Stephen King Adaptation?
Stephen King adaptations can be hit or miss, and The Monkey unfortunately falls into the latter category for many. One of the biggest criticisms is that it stretches a short story far beyond its original scope. What could have been a tightly paced, eerie horror flick turns into a slow-burning drama that struggles to maintain tension.
The film starts strong, with an engaging opening scene featuring Adam Scott, but it quickly loses its footing. The blend of dark humor and horror works initially, particularly in the childhood sequences of the twins. However, as the film progresses, the humor fades, and the story becomes repetitive. The pacing drags, with unnecessary character subplots that add little to the narrative.
Despite its flaws, The Monkey does deliver in one key area—its gore. Fans of splatter horror will appreciate the inventive and brutal kills, reminiscent of Final Destination. Perkins clearly enjoys crafting absurd, over-the-top deaths, from electrocution in a swimming pool to gruesome decapitations. These moments provide brief bursts of energy in an otherwise sluggish story.
Acting and Characterization – Hit or Miss?
The performances in The Monkey are a mixed bag. Theo James takes on the dual role of the adult Hal and Bill, but his portrayal lacks depth. He struggles to differentiate the brothers convincingly, making it difficult to invest in their rivalry or emotional turmoil.
Tatiana Maslany (Orphan Black) is a highlight, delivering a strong performance as their mother. Her presence adds some much-needed energy to the film, especially in its first half. However, many of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped, existing solely to be future victims of the monkey’s deadly curse.
The Monkey vs. Longlegs – A Visual Comparison
Given that The Monkey follows Perkins’ recent film Longlegs, comparisons between the two are inevitable. Visually, the films share a similar aesthetic—dark, muted color palettes, eerie atmosphere, and unsettling cinematography. However, while Longlegs thrived on psychological horror, The Monkey leans more toward campy, exaggerated gore.
This tonal inconsistency is where The Monkey struggles the most. Perkins attempts to balance family tragedy, black comedy, and supernatural horror, but instead of blending seamlessly, these elements clash. The second half of the movie takes itself too seriously, abandoning the self-awareness that made the first act enjoyable.
Where to Watch The Monkey (2025) Online
As of now, The Monkey is not yet available for streaming. However, based on previous horror releases, we can predict where it might land in the coming months.
Predicted Streaming Platforms:
- Hulu – Given its track record of acquiring horror films, The Monkey could be available here after its theatrical run.
- Peacock – Universal horror films often stream on Peacock, making this a likely destination.
- HBO Max (soon to be Max) – A potential home for the film, considering Warner Bros. distribution deals.
Digital Rental & Purchase Options:
Once the film leaves theaters, expect it to be available for rent or purchase on platforms like:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple TV
- Google Play Movies
- Vudu
For the latest streaming availability, check JustWatch.
For official updates, visit The Monkey’s official site.
Final Verdict – Should You Watch The Monkey?
If you’re a die-hard Stephen King fan, The Monkey might still be worth watching for its unique premise and brutal kills. However, those expecting a tight, well-paced horror experience may find themselves disappointed. The film struggles with inconsistent tone, underdeveloped characters, and a runtime that overstays its welcome.
Pros:
✅ Inventive and gory death scenes
✅ Strong performance by Tatiana Maslany
✅ Solid cinematography and eerie atmosphere
Cons:
❌ Slow pacing and repetitive storytelling
❌ Lackluster character development
❌ Tonal inconsistency – starts fun, ends overly serious
While The Monkey has its moments, it fails to capture the magic of King’s best adaptations. If you’re looking for a truly terrifying horror experience, you may be better off rewatching Final Destination or Companion.
What’s Next?
Are you excited for The Monkey? Will you watch it in theaters, or wait for it to hit streaming platforms? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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