8 Must-See Horror Movies for Fans of ‘The Monkey’ That Will Haunt You!

by

Summary

  • The Monkey is Osgood Perkins’ latest horror film based on a Stephen King short story.
  • The film combines scares with dark comedy through absurd kills and cursed toys.
  • Viewers who enjoy The Monkey may also like other wild horror takes on the genre.

In the latest chilling offering from director Osgood Perkins, titled “The Monkey,” we find a return to horror following his 2024 release, “Longlegs.” This spine-tingling production is based on a Stephen King short story and boasts the contributions of James Wan, an emerging force in the genre. The narrative unfolds in 1999 when twin brothers, Hal and Bill Shelburn, stumble upon their father’s old toy, which leads them to bear witness to multiple murders.

In the passage of time, the toy resurfaces to cause chaos in their lives despite having buried it as children. Although it’s quite terrifying, The Monkey is also used for humor due to the outrageousness of certain kill scenes. Those who appreciated it during its theatrical run might find these unconventional horror interpretations appealing as well. In the future, expect themes such as evil toys, childhood traumas, cursed families, dark comedy, and much more.

8. Beetlejuice

A Model Home

Beetlejuice is a horror-comedy that explores the monotony of death and life as a ghost. The film begins by depicting Adam and Barbara Maitland’s untimely demise in a car accident, leaving them stuck in their house for almost eternity before they can progress. This would be bearable if they were alone, but unfortunately, they must also contend with the arrival of new homeowners, the Deetz family, who have a habit of reorganizing belongings.

As a cinephile, I find myself in a quandary over these fresh circumstances. The thought of inviting a poltergeist named Beetlejuice, who dwells in a miniature town constructed by Adam before his demise, crosses my mind. And let me tell you, from that moment onwards, all hell breaks loose! “Beetlejuice,” directed by the genius Tim Burton, may not require much introduction, but it’s undeniably a cinematic treasure.

7. It Follows

Always Use Protection

The movie “It Follows” can be seen as a symbolic representation of the risks associated with entering into relationships without due caution and safeguards. Many contemporary horror films employ allegories to convey their narratives, and this one stands out as particularly chilling among them.

The affliction carries an origin shrouded in mystery, yet it ensures a chilling legacy: those who bear its weight will unwittingly pass it on to their romantic counterparts. Once touched by this malevolence, a spectral entity capable of assuming any shape will doggedly pursue the victim. If given the opportunity, this sinister presence will claim their life. Remarkably, this ghost is relentless, tracking its target across borders, whether from Minnesota to Japan or elsewhere; it mirrors the haunting monkey in the tale of The Monkey.

6. Longlegs

When Is Your Birthday Little Girl?

In case you haven’t heard, the film “Longlegs” was the previous directorial work of Osgood Perkins before “The Monkey”. The story revolves around FBI Agent Lee Harker who encounters a supernatural case within her department. A mysterious individual seems to be manipulating fathers into committing murders around their daughters’ birthdays, leaving coded messages claiming responsibility. Eventually, it is Agent Harker who deciphers these messages.

At one of the crime scenes, she discovers a doll containing a puzzling orb. The connection to the larger mystery isn’t immediately clear (it’s a spoiler!), but it’s as enigmatic as Nicolas Cage’s portrayal of Longlegs in the film – eccentric and hard to anticipate.

5. Needful Things

The Devil Is In The Details

Among numerous compelling Stephen King adaptations following “The Monkey,” it’s “Needful Things” that stands out as the most memorable. Similar to many of King’s stories, the film commences in the quaint town of Castle Rock.

As a cinema enthusiast, let me recount a chilling tale: In this quiet hamlet, a fresh merchant settles, offering goods that our hearts yearn for without any apparent strings attached. However, these treasures come with a hidden curse, gradually corrupting their owners into malicious beings. By the film’s climax, the town is on the brink of self-destruction, as rampant consumerism has driven its residents mad.

4. Piranha 3D

No Stranger To Horror

The movie titled “Piranha 3D” can be seen as a fresh take or reinterpretation of the original “Piranha” from 1978. It unfolds during the lively Spring Break season when college students tend to misbehave most, and in this beach-side scenario, a group is attempting to produce an R-rated film.

When people are being devoured by relentless piranhas, a team of experts steps in to solve the crisis. It’s like “Jaws” but with more blood and humor. If you’re a fan of combining gore and comedy, “Piranha 3D” is definitely worth watching. Plus, since Adam Scott from “The Monkey” stars in it, it pairs perfectly with the upcoming 2025 horror-comedy release.

3. Ready Or Not

Should Have Signed A Prenup

The story unfolds in a grand mansion following Alex and Grace’s wedding. Alex hails from a renowned board game dynasty, and as part of their unique family tradition, they are invited to play a board game in the family estate to celebrate their nuptials. Intriguingly, Grace agrees, little knowing that she has picked the wrong game: Hide and Seek.

In the film, it’s disclosed that Alex’s relatives are bound by an ancient tradition which demands them to sacrifice the bride of a newlywed among them, or else face their own demise. The movie unfolds as a thrilling chase where Grace frantically evades members of the family who relentlessly pursue her with the intention of taking her life. Whether the curse holds true is left uncertain throughout the storyline.

2. Society

There Are No Words

The film, titled Society, is challenging to explain much beyond labeling it as a psychological thriller without revealing too many secrets. The protagonist, a typical teenager named Bill, experiences tension with his parents, who appear to favor his sister more. Bill attributes the peculiar occurrences he encounters to mere optical illusions. Strangely, people in town are also acting oddly, causing Bill to question his initial assumptions.

Is there a secret Bill’s family is keeping, or is he merely imagining things? However, as tensions rise and truths are revealed, viewers will find it hard to forget the dark revelations that unfold. The denouement of “Society” is truly unparalleled, so I recommend you not dig too deeply and simply watch it instead.

1. Vivarium

Trapped In Mundanity

Vivarium, released in 2019, is a lesser-known horror film that might not have been on many radars. In this movie, we follow a schoolteacher named Gemma and her partner Tom, who works as a janitor. They embark on a journey to explore a suburban plot located outside the city, guided by an odd tour guide. The neighborhood they visit seems strangely perfect, yet deserted and impeccably maintained.

In the end, their guide stealthily departs, leaving the duo stranded in a suburban nightmare with no means of escape. Furthermore, they are tasked with rearing a child delivered in a crate who bears striking resemblances to Damien from the Omen series. To describe Vivarium as strange would be a significant understatement, yet it manages to captivate from the very start.

Read More

2025-02-26 15:10