How to Watch The Monkey – Stephen King’s Wildest Horror-Comedy Yet
Stephen King has long been celebrated for his ability to blend terror with dark humor, and *The Monkey* stands out as one of his most audacious creations yet. Adapted from a short story published in 1980, this film adaptation brings the tale to life with an electrifying mix of horror and comedy. Directed by Osgood Perkins, known for his work on *Longlegs* and *The Blackcoat’s Daughter*, *The Monkey* is described by King himself as “batshit insane.” This description perfectly captures the movie’s wild energy, leaving audiences both thrilled and deeply unsettled.
The Plot: A Twisted Family Tale
At the heart of *The Monkey* are twin brothers Hal and Bill Shelburn, played by Theo James of *The White Lotus*. Their seemingly ordinary lives take a sinister turn when they stumble upon their father’s old monkey toy hidden away in the attic. What initially appears to be a harmless relic from childhood quickly reveals itself to be something far more sinister—a cursed drum-playing monkey that unleashes death whenever its crank is turned. The narrative unfolds at a breakneck pace, delivering a relentless series of shocks and laughs that critics have praised for their visceral impact. With a 79% score on Rotten Tomatoes from critics but a more divided 57% audience rating, the film clearly resonates differently depending on individual tastes.
A Stellar Cast Elevates the Chaos
One of the standout elements of *The Monkey* is its cast, which brings depth and intensity to an already chaotic storyline. Tatiana Maslany, Elijah Wood, and Adam Scott deliver performances that elevate the material beyond typical horror fare. Their chemistry ensures that even the most over-the-top moments feel grounded, adding layers of emotional complexity to the mayhem. Mashable’s review encapsulates the tone perfectly, describing it as a “vicious and hysterical spectacle of blood and brain matter.”
Where to Watch The Monkey
For those eager to experience *The Monkey*, the film became available for digital purchase or rental starting April 4, 2025. Platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu offer the option to buy the movie for $24.99 or rent it for a 48-hour window at $19.99. Streaming enthusiasts will want to mark their calendars for July 2025, when the film is expected to premiere on Hulu as part of Neon’s distribution deal.
Hulu provides several flexible viewing options, catering to a variety of preferences. New users can take advantage of a 30-day free trial, while others might opt for the annual plan priced at $99.99, offering a 16% discount compared to monthly payments. Students benefit from a discounted rate of just $1.99 per month, and T-Mobile customers on the Go5G Next plan can access Hulu for free with ads. These options make it easier than ever to dive into the madness of *The Monkey*.
Why The Monkey Stands Out
What truly sets *The Monkey* apart is its fearless embrace of extremes. It doesn’t settle for being merely a horror movie; instead, it pushes boundaries to create a blood-soaked, laugh-out-loud nightmare that defies expectations. For fans of boundary-pushing cinema, this is a must-watch. Its unique combination of humor and horror ensures that it lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.
More Horror Gems to Explore
If you’re craving additional thrills, consider checking out the redband teaser for *The Monkey* or exploring other standout horror films available on Hulu, such as *Longlegs* and *Cuckoo*. Fans of Stephen King adaptations also have plenty to look forward to, including *The Life of Chuck*, which released its teaser earlier in 2025.
Prepare to Face The Monkey
Ready to confront the horrors unleashed by the cursed monkey? Just remember—once you turn that crank, there’s no going back. Whether you’re drawn to the film for its wild premise, stellar cast, or reputation as one of Stephen King’s wildest creations, *The Monkey* promises an unforgettable ride through terror and laughter.
