In a unique blend of horror and comedy, Osgood Perkins' latest film The Monkey explores the dark and twisted lives of twin brothers Hal and Bill as they confront a malevolent toy that brings death to all around them. The movie's tagline, "Everybody dies," sets the tone for a narrative where characters meet their untimely ends in various shocking ways. Through interviews with cast members like Tatiana Maslany, who plays Lois, the audience gains insight into the film's deeper themes of unresolved trauma and the consequences of burying one's past. Maslany reflects on how the film shifts dramatically between its 1990s opening and modern-day storyline, highlighting the psychological impact of childhood experiences on adult life.

A Malevolent Toy Unleashes Chaos in a Family's Life

Set against the backdrop of an eerie household, The Monkey tells the story of Hal and Bill, two brothers whose lives are forever altered by a sinister toy monkey. In the film's opening act, set in the 1990s, the brothers witness the tragic death of their beloved babysitter Annie at a teppanyaki restaurant. This event sets the stage for a series of unfortunate incidents that continue to plague the family. When Lois, their mother, accidentally triggers the toy's murderous spree, it marks a turning point in the narrative. Forced to leave their home, Hal and Bill move in with their aunt and uncle, only for more tragedy to follow. Years later, Aunt Ida meets a gruesome end, adding another layer of sorrow to the family's legacy.

Maslany, who portrays Lois, shares her experience of watching the film unfold from an outsider's perspective. She notes how the film transitions seamlessly between its two distinct time periods, creating a sense of disorientation that mirrors the characters' emotional turmoil. The actress emphasizes the importance of confronting buried emotions, a theme that resonates throughout the film. “The buried thing is gonna emerge,” she says, reflecting on the inevitability of facing one's demons.

The deaths in The Monkey serve as a metaphor for the characters' inability to escape their past. Each demise, whether humorous or heartbreaking, underscores the film's message about the futility of trying to suppress unresolved issues. As Maslany explains, Lois' quiet, poignant death stands in stark contrast to the more sensational deaths of other characters, yet it carries just as much weight in terms of emotional impact.

From a journalistic standpoint, The Monkey offers a compelling exploration of how unresolved trauma can shape a person's life. The film's unconventional structure and dark humor create a unique viewing experience that challenges audiences to reflect on their own unresolved issues. Ultimately, the movie serves as a reminder that no matter how deeply we try to bury our past, it will always find a way to resurface, often with devastating consequences.