The Monkey has had a creative marketing run. Rejection emails, funny posters, and an interesting Super Bowl halftime show were all a part of it. This also meant that the actual movie had a lot to live up to. Tonally, it is exactly what some might have expected. But what about those who didn’t know what they were getting into?

The trailers focus on the most outrageous aspects of the plot, but how it came across on screen may be surprising to some. Dark humor and graphic violence are combined with a story about family. It is over the top while also having a lighthearted quality. The marketing also include a Super Bowl halftime show and church screenings. It was all very creative, but how well did it work?

There is plenty of gore in the movie, but there was also an attempt at a heartfelt story. The message came across - and in many ways it is a very dark one - but this is also the weakest part of The Monkey. The willingness of Osgood Perkins to lean into the wackier parts of the story along with some incredible performances really end up making the difference.

It may be too soon to say Perkins is the best modern horror director, but it is definitely time to take him into consideration. We talk about how he stacks up next to his contemporaries and what sets him apart. We also review where this adaptation sits next to all the other King stories of the 21st century.

Adventures in Movies! is a part of the Morbidly Beautiful Podcast Network. Morbidly Beautiful is your one stop shop for all your horror needs. From the latest news and reviews to interviews and old favorites, it can be found at Morbidly Beautiful.

Adventures in Movies! is hosted by Nathaniel and Blake. You can find Nathaniel on Instagram at nathaninpoortaste. Blake can be found on Twitter @foureyedhorror and on Instagram at foureyedhorror. You can reach us personally or on Twitter @AdventuresinMo1.

Music in the background from https://www.FesliyanStudios.com