Released in 1988, Romero’sMonkey Shinesdidn’t achieve anything close toThe Monkey’s positive reviews.
But for fans of Romero orThe Monkey, it’s worth closer inspection.
Much likeThe Monkey, Romero’sMonkey Shineswas adapted from literature.
However,Ella plays an extremely similar role to that played by the children’s toy inThe Monkey.
This stems from an odd telepathic link between Ella and Allan.
But as Allan learns how Ella chooses her targets, a heavier thematic similarity betweenMonkey ShinesandThe Monkeycomes to light.
Despite operating largely as a comedy,The Monkeyfollows otherOsgood Perkins horror moviesin centering on poignant themes.
Comedy fans will also enjoy an early appearance by Stephen Root as the film’s main human villain.
There’s plenty of reason to enjoyMonkey Shinesoutside any tonal, thematic, or plot-based similarities toThe Monkey.
The Monkey is a horror film following twin brothers Hal and Bill, who uncover their father’s old monkey toy in the attic, triggering a series of gruesome deaths.
Monkey Shines is a horror thriller directed by George A. Romero.
As the monkey develops intense emotions, unexpected and sinister consequences ensue.
Monkey Shines is a horror thriller directed by George A. Romero. It follows a quadriplegic man whose life takes a dark turn when he receives a trained monkey to assist with daily tasks. As the monkey develops intense emotions, unexpected and sinister consequences ensue.
