Hi friends, Stephen King fans, horror movie lovers! Here is some super exciting news! The trailer of the new horror-comedy movie ‘The Monkey’ was released on January 16, 2025 and is making a splash on social media! Based on a killer short story written by Stephen King in 1980, this movie is directed by Osgood Perkins of ‘Longlegs’ fame. Not only that, but James Wan, who gave blockbusters like The Conjuring and Saw, is the producer of this movie. Releasing in theaters on February 21, 2025, the trailer of this movie is sure to give you goosebumps as well as heart-wrenching laughter! Come on, let’s talk about this movie!
What is the story?
The story of ‘The Monkey’ revolves around twin brothers Hal and Bill, played by Theo James (The White Lotus). In 1999, they spot an old owl toy in their dad’s attic—a cute little toy that plays a drum. But, friend, this toy is not innocent at all, it’s full-on cursed! Whenever this toy plays its drum, everyone around it gets into horrible, bloody “accidents.” The brothers are shocked to see this scene, leave the toy behind, and continue their lives. But, years later, the toy re-enters the scene, starting the death game once again. Now, the brothers, who have been separated from each other, must reunite, fight the curse, and destroy the toy forever. Horror, gore, dark humor—this story feels like a rollercoaster ride!
How is the trailer?
The Red Band trailer, released on January 16, 2025, has taken social media by storm with 43 million views in a single day, crossing 100 million views in 72 hours, setting a record for independent horror trailers. The trailer is loaded with gore, bizarre deaths, and funny moments. In one scene, a doll beats a drum, while a boy goes all out with a harpoon gun! In another scene, a character in a stripper mask laughs and makes your heart flutter. Fans on X are celebrating the trailer by saying, “Grooty, funny, total fire!” But, after seeing the high-octane gore scenes in this trailer, four big TV networks backed out, saying, “Oh, this is too heavy, we can’t air it.” I mean, imagine how much fun the movie will be!
Who’s the cast?
Theo James shines as the twin brothers in this movie, while Christian Convery (Sweet Tooth) reprises his childhood roles. Also, the lineup includes stars like Tatiana Maslany (She-Hulk), Elijah Wood (Lord of the Rings), Sarah Levy (Schitt’s Creek), Rohan Campbell (Halloween Ends), and Colin O’Brien (Wonka). Neon Studios is releasing this movie, and James Wan’s Atomic Monster team has handled the production well. Cinematography by Nico Aguilar, editing by Graham Fortin and Greg Ng give the film a striking visual. Osgood Perkins' script balances the dark humor well, adding a new swag to the Stephen King story.
Why should you watch it?
‘The Monkey’ is a heart-pounding dish with Stephen King horror spice, spiced with Osgood Perkins’ dark humor. With gory deaths like Final Destination and Deadpool-style laughs, this movie gives off a unique vibe. The 1 hour and 38 minute R-rated movie is packed with blood, scares, and laughs. The movie has already collected $68.6 million at the global box office, and has become a super hit on a budget of $10-11 million. This movie is a must-watch for horror fans, you'll regret it if you miss it!
Conclusion
‘The Monkey’ is a thoroughly entertaining horror-comedy that mixes Stephen King horror with Osgood Perkins’ crazy dark humor. With a record-breaking trailer, star cast, and critical acclaim, this movie is a solid hit for the 2025 horror season! Enjoy this gory, funny, and total thrill ride in theaters starting February 21. But, one warning—when that doll beats the drum, no one is safe, friend!