James Wadsworth

ℍ𝕆𝕃𝕐 𝔹𝔸𝕋𝕄𝔸ℕ! "Monkey Man," directed by Dev Patel, delivers a gripping narrative centered around an anonymous young man known as Kid, portrayed with intensity by Patel himself. Kid's tumultuous journey unfolds in the gritty world of illegal underground fights orchestrated by the menacing Tiger, played convincingly by Sharlto Copley. Sporting a monkey mask during these brutal bouts, Kid pays homage to the mythological tales of Hanuman, instilled in him by his mother Neela (Adithi Kalkunte) during his childhood. The film plunges viewers into Kid's harsh reality, where survival means enduring relentless beatings in the ring, all while harboring deep-seated rage and trauma. Patel's performance shines in the adrenaline-fueled action sequences, showcasing his versatility as an actor adept at handling both physicality and emotional depth. While "Monkey Man" excels in its action-packed moments, delving into Kid's backstory and motivations could have enriched the movie. Starting with the story of the kid and why he was so vengeful could have been delivered better in the beginning rather than having the kid daydreaming throughout the movie, which made it confusing. It's better to tell a story in order rather than with misplaced timelines. The sporadic glimpses into Kid's past, coupled with his vengeful pursuits, could leave some people wanting more clarity and connection to his character. Nevertheless, the film's visceral action sequences, coupled with Patel's commanding presence, make "Monkey Man" a captivating cinematic experience. Dev Patel's directorial prowess shines through in his ability to weave together themes of vengeance, resilience, and the enduring power of mythological narratives in a modern-day setting. Overall, "Monkey Man" is a compelling watch that leaves a lasting impact, showcasing Patel's talent both in front of and behind the camera.

I can't believe I waisted the time in watching this movie. Can't believe it's ranked number two in Netflix movie hits.