Osgood Perkins? latest cinematic offering, The Monkey, is making waves at the box office, amassing an impressive $1.9 million during its Thursday previews. This remarkable figure positions the film as NEON’s second-best opening ever, showcasing the studio’s growing influence in the horror genre. Following the success of Longlegs, which terrified audiences last year, Perkins returns with a chilling tale inspired by a short story from the legendary Stephen King. With potential predictions pointing towards a weekend total of $12 million to $14 million, the excitement around The Monkey is palpable. In comparison, Longlegs had a $3 million preview opening and concluded with a robust $22.4 million debut.
NEON?s The Monkey is off to a strong start, earning $1.9 million in Thursday previews, which marks a significant achievement for the studio, placing it second in their list of all-time openings. Directed by Oz Perkins, who previously captivated audiences with the spine-chilling Longlegs, the new film draws on a narrative from a classic short story by Stephen King. The projection for its opening weekend suggests it could rake in between $12 million and $14 million. By way of contrast, Longlegs had a preview night gross of $3 million and ultimately accumulated a total of $22.4 million during its opening weekend, reflecting the growing anticipation for Perkins’ latest horror masterpiece.
In the director’s chair for The Monkey, Osgood Perkins not only directs but also pens the screenplay, weaving a captivating narrative that grips the audience from the start. The storyline follows twin brothers Hal and Bill, who stumble upon their father’s eerie old monkey toy hidden away in the attic. Shortly after its discovery, a series of gruesome and mysterious deaths plague their surroundings. In an attempt to rid themselves of the sinister object, the brothers decide to dispose of the monkey, leading to a gradual estrangement over the years. However, when the horrifying incidents resurface, they must put aside their differences and unite to find a way to eradicate the malevolent toy once and for all, before it claims more lives of those they hold dear.
Meanwhile, Marvel Studios is also making headlines with Captain America: Brave New World, which garnered $3.2 million on Thursday as it wraps up its first week in theaters with an impressive total of $113 million. Industry experts anticipate that the film, featuring Anthony Mackie in the titular role, will reclaim the number one position at the box office this weekend, potentially adding another $30 million to its growing tally.
Our Editor-in-Chief, Chris Bumbray, has given The Monkey a rave review, awarding it an impressive 8/10. According to Bumbray, the film excels in various aspects, particularly in its depiction of gore and unexpected twists in its killings. He praises Perkins?s directorial prowess, highlighting how the filmmaker has successfully followed up his previous work with Longlegs and delivered another haunting experience with The Monkey. Bumbray’s review reflects a sense of excitement around Perkins? unique vision in the horror genre.
In his review, ?Perkins is aiming for a darkly comic vibe here, with him obviously wanting audiences to laugh at its excessiveness rather than scream (similar to the recent breakout smash, The Substance). It?s among the goriest films in recent memory, with absolutely nothing safe from the monkey?s wrath, including men, women, children, and even babies. Yet, it?s all done in such a heightened way that it?s more amusing (in a grand guignol kind of way) than truly terrifying,? Chris wrote in his review, encapsulating the film’s unique blend of horror and humor.
Are you planning to see The Monkey this weekend? If it?s not on your list, what films are you eager to watch? We invite you to share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments section below.
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