Written by Julia Ozuna
Modified & Updated: 10 May 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
If you’re a fan of thrilling and intense movies, then you’ve probably heard of the cult classic film Monkey Shines. Released in 1988, this psychological horror film directed by George A. Romero has left a lasting impression on audiences with its unique storyline and captivating performances. Monkey Shines tells the gripping tale of a quadriplegic man who forms an unlikely bond with an intelligent and deadly monkey named Ella. As their bond grows stronger, so does the danger, leading to a series of shocking and terrifying events. With its blend of suspense, horror, and emotional depth, Monkey Shines has become a must-watch for fans of the genre. In this article, we will delve into some fascinating facts about this iconic movie, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Monkey Shines.
Key Takeaways:
- “Monkey Shines” is a chilling horror film about a quadriplegic and his helper monkey, exploring themes of dependency and control, with a controversial ending that leaves viewers intrigued and unsettled.
- “Monkey Shines” has become a cult classic, with its deep exploration of human-animal relationships and primal instincts, leaving a lasting impact on the horror genre and inspiring later films.
Monkey Shines is a psychological horror film
Monkey Shines is a 1988 psychological horror film directed by George A. Romero.
Based on a novel
The movie is based on the novel “Monkey Shines” by Michael Stewart.
The protagonist is a quadriplegic
The main character, Allan Mann, is left paralyzed from the neck down after a tragic accident.
Allan Mann receives a helper monkey
Allan is given a capuchin monkey named Ella to assist him with his daily tasks.
The bond between Allan and Ella grows
As Allan and Ella spend more time together, a strong bond develops between them.
Experimental surgery on Ella
A doctor proposes a risky experiment to enhance Ella’s intelligence, which ultimately leads to unforeseen consequences.
Ella becomes unnaturally possessive
After the surgery, Ella starts exhibiting possessive and aggressive behavior towards anyone who threatens her bond with Allan.
The movie explores themes of dependency and control
Monkey Shines delves into the psychological and emotional aspects of dependency and the lengths one might go to regain control.
A dark and suspenseful atmosphere
The movie creates a tense and unsettling atmosphere, adding to the overall horror experience.
Intriguing performances
The cast, including Jason Beghe as Allan Mann and Boo, the real-life capuchin monkey who played Ella, deliver compelling performances.
Critically acclaimed
Monkey Shines received positive reviews for its unique storyline and atmospheric tension.
Romero’s distinctive filmmaking style
George A. Romero, known for his iconic zombie films like Night of the Living Dead, brings his signature style to Monkey Shines.
Thought-provoking exploration of human-animal relationships
The movie raises questions about the ethical boundaries of human-animal relationships and the potential consequences of tampering with nature.
Monkey Shines was a box office success
Despite being a relatively low-budget film, Monkey Shines was a commercial success, further solidifying Romero’s reputation as a genre director.
Special effects and makeup
The movie features impressive practical special effects and makeup work, adding to the realism of the story.
A haunting score
The atmospheric score composed by David Shire heightens the suspense and unease throughout the film.
Monkey Shines tackles complex emotions
The movie explores the emotional turmoil experienced by both Allan and Ella, delving deep into their respective psyches.
Controversial ending
The film’s ending sparked debates among viewers, leaving them with a lingering sense of unease and mystery.
Monkey Shines was retitled in some countries
In certain countries, Monkey Shines was released under the alternate title “Monkey Shines: An Experiment in Fear.”
Psychological depth and character development
The film goes beyond typical horror tropes, focusing on character development and psychological exploration.
Monkey Shines has become a cult classic
Over the years, Monkey Shines has gained a dedicated following and is now regarded as a cult classic in the horror genre.
Multiple interpretations
The movie lends itself to various interpretations, allowing audiences to draw their own conclusions about its themes and message.
A tale of obsession
Monkey Shines delves into the dark realms of obsession, both for Allan and Ella.
Realistic portrayal of disability
The movie showcases the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the importance of empathy and understanding.
Monkey Shines received accolades
The film was nominated for several awards, including Best Special Effects at the Saturn Awards.
Psychological horror with a twist
Monkey Shines stands out among other horror films with its unique blend of psychological suspense and unexpected twists.
Influence on other films
Monkey Shines has served as an inspiration for later films exploring the complexities of human-animal relationships and the dark side of technology.
A physically demanding role
Jason Beghe’s portrayal of Allan required him to convey a range of emotions and physical limitations, showcasing his acting skills.
Deep exploration of primal instincts
Monkey Shines taps into deep-rooted fears and primal instincts, making it a truly psychological and unnerving experience.
The legacy of Monkey Shines
Monkey Shines has left a lasting impact on the horror genre, with its thought-provoking narrative and memorable characters.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Monkey Shines is a captivating and thrilling movie that explores the complex relationship between a paralyzed man and his assistive monkey. With its unique blend of horror, drama, and psychological tension, the film keeps audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The exceptional performances by the cast, especially Jason Beghe and Boo the Capuchin monkey, add depth and authenticity to the characters. The expert direction of George A. Romero brings this chilling story to life, making Monkey Shines a must-watch for fans of the genre.
FAQs
Q: What is Monkey Shines about?
A: Monkey Shines revolves around a quadriplegic man named Allan who forms a bond with a specially trained monkey named Ella, who becomes his personal assistant. However, things take a dark turn as Ella develops a sinister and possessive side, leading to a thrilling cat-and-mouse game.
Q: Who directed Monkey Shines?
A: Monkey Shines was directed by the legendary horror filmmaker George A. Romero, known for his groundbreaking work in the zombie genre with films like Night of the Living Dead.
Q: Is Monkey Shines based on a book?
A: Yes, Monkey Shines is based on a novel of the same name written by Michael Stewart. The screenplay was adapted by Romero and follows the main storyline and themes of the book.
Q: What genre does Monkey Shines belong to?
A: Monkey Shines falls into the genre of psychological horror. It combines elements of suspense, drama, and psychological tension to create a thrilling and captivating viewing experience.
Q: Are there any notable performances in Monkey Shines?
A: Yes, the performances in Monkey Shines are highly acclaimed. Jason Beghe delivers a compelling portrayal of the protagonist, Allan, as his character experiences a range of emotions while dealing with his disability. Additionally, the monkey named Boo steals the show with its exceptional training and on-screen presence.
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