The horror genre is off to a powerful start in 2025 with the release of *The Monkey*, a new film based on a Stephen King short story. Directed by Osgood Perkins and produced by James Wan, the movie is winning over both critics and audiences alike. It proves that even a simple child’s toy can become the source of terrifying nightmares.
Horror’s Hot Streak Continues in 2025
It’s only mid-February, but 2025 is already shaping up to be a standout year for horror fans. Following the success of the android-thriller *Companion*, *The Monkey* has arrived to widespread acclaim.
Unlike many horror films that divide viewers, this one has achieved rare universal praise. The Monkey currently holds an 84% critic rating and an 85% audience score, showing it connects with almost everyone who sees it. This is a significant achievement for director Osgood Perkins, whose previous film, *Longlegs*, saw a large gap between critic and fan reactions.
| Film Title | Critic Score | Audience Score |
|---|---|---|
| The Monkey (2025) | 84% | 85% |
| Longlegs (2024) | 86% | 61% |
The unified success of *The Monkey* solidifies Perkins’ reputation as a must-watch director in the modern horror landscape.
A Haunting Premise with King’s Signature Touch
The film is an adaptation of Stephen King’s 1980 short story of the same name. It centers on a cursed wind-up toy monkey that brings death to someone every time its cymbals clash together. This concept is classic King, turning a normal object into an icon of terror.
The story follows a multi-generational family haunted by the toy. It explores deep family trauma and an evil that simply refuses to be destroyed, forcing characters to confront a nightmare from their past. While the premise is familiar King territory, the execution on screen feels fresh and terrifying for modern audiences.
The Perfect Horror Duo of Perkins and Wan
The collaboration between director Osgood Perkins and producer James Wan is a key part of the film’s success. Perkins is known for his skill in creating unsettling atmosphere and slow-burning dread in films like *The Blackcoat’s Daughter*.
James Wan, the mind behind massive franchises like *The Conjuring* and *Saw*, brings his expertise in building tension and delivering effective jump scares. Their combined styles create a film that is both psychologically disturbing and viscerally frightening. This perfect pairing elevates *The Monkey* beyond a simple story about a haunted object.
What Makes The Monkey a Standout Film?
Viewers may notice similarities to the *Final Destination* franchise, where characters face elaborate and seemingly accidental deaths. However, *The Monkey* gives the horror a physical source: a tangible, evil toy orchestrating the chaos. This makes the threat feel more personal and direct. The deaths are both random and calculated, keeping the audience guessing how the curse will strike next.
Several key factors contribute to its unique appeal:
- It is based on a Stephen King story that has not been frequently adapted.
- The film blends psychological horror with elements of a supernatural slasher.
- Osgood Perkins provides his signature, deeply unsettling direction.
- James Wan’s influence is seen in the memorable and terrifying death sequences.
With its strong reception and chilling premise, there is already speculation about the film’s future. If its popularity continues, audiences may not have seen the last of the cursed monkey and its deadly cymbals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the movie The Monkey about?
The Monkey is a horror film based on a Stephen King short story. It’s about a cursed wind-up toy monkey that causes a person to die every time its cymbals clash, terrorizing a family across generations.
Who directed The Monkey?
The film was directed by Osgood Perkins, who is known for other unsettling horror films like *Longlegs* and *The Blackcoat’s Daughter*. Horror master James Wan, creator of *The Conjuring* universe, served as a producer.
How is The Monkey different from other Stephen King movies?
While it features classic King themes like childhood trauma and cursed objects, the film adapts one of his lesser-known short stories. This gives it a fresh feeling compared to more famous adaptations like *It* or *The Shining*.
Is The Monkey getting good reviews?
Yes, the film is a major critical and audience hit. It has earned near-identical high scores from both groups, with an 84% from critics and an 85% from audiences, which is uncommon for the horror genre.
