Here’s what we know about Dev Patel’s directorial debut film, Monkey Man.
The results of actors transitioning to directors can often be underwhelming. However, British actor Dev Patel is poised to defy expectations with his directorial debut, Monkey Man, a movie that’s already drawing comparisons to the stellar entries in the John Wick franchise.
This explosive new action-packed thriller, which Patel has not only directed but also produced and starred in, chronicles the journey of an amateur fighter seeking revenge against the corrupt overlords responsible for his mother’s murder and the oppression of society’s underprivileged. Think, intense emotions, shootouts, adrenaline-pumping fight sequences and gripping suspense that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat!
Premiering to thunderous applause at the South by Southwest Festival (SXSW) 2024 on 11 March, Monkey Man left audiences spellbound, a reception that rendered Patel teary-eyed. This emotional resonance has only fueled anticipation among Dev Patel fans and eager moviegoers who can’t wait to catch the film in theatres.
Dev Patel receives a standing ovation after a #SXSW screening of his feature directorial debut “Monkey Man.” pic.twitter.com/OcpjhByVSu
— Variety (@Variety) March 12, 2024
Are you eager to delve deeper into Dev’s directorial debut? Here’s everything you need to know about Monkey Man, from the movie’s release date to the stellar cast.
What is it about?
Drawing inspiration from the Hindu legend of the monkey god or Hanuman, symbolising strength and valour, Monkey Man places Patel in the role of Kid, an anonymous youth scraping by in the brutal world of underground fight clubs. Night after night, concealed behind a gorilla mask, Kid endures bad beatings for profit.
But when years of pent-up rage reach a boiling point, he uncovers a path to infiltrate the inner sanctum of the city’s evil elite. With childhood traumas resurfacing, his scarred hands become instruments of vengeance, unleashing a violent campaign to settle scores with those who stripped him of everything and were responsible for his mother’s murder.
Meet the cast of ‘Monkey Man’
View this post on Instagram
Featuring a heavily-Asian cast, the film showcases a lineup of fresh and emerging talent, set against the backdrop of South Asia. Joining Patel are Sharlto Copley, Pitobash, Vipin Sharma, Sikandar Kher, Sobhita Dhulipala, Ashwini Kalsekar, Adithi Kalkunte and Makarand Deshpande.
In addition to his on-screen role, Patel also assumes credits as a screenwriter, producer and director, with Nope and Get Out maker Jordan Peele lending his expertise as a producer.
Do we have a release date for ‘Monkey Man’?
Originally slated for a Netflix release, Monkey Man has secured a theatrical debut in the United States on 5 April 2024, courtesy of Universal Pictures and Peele acquiring the rights and joining as a producer.
Is there a movie trailer for ‘Monkey Man’?
Yes! The electrifying trailer offers a glimpse into Dev’s revenge-fueled journey, featuring heart-stopping action sequences, exhilarating chases and more, all set to the iconic beats of “Mundian to Bach Ke” by Punjabi MC and Jay-Z.
(Header and feature image courtesy: IMDd/Monkey Man)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– Who is in the cast of the Monkey Man movie?
The cast includes Dev Patel, Sharlto Copley, Pitobash, Vipin Sharma, Sikandar Kher, Sobhita Dhulipala, Ashwini Kalsekar, Adithi Kalkunte and Makarand Deshpande.
– When is Monkey Man releasing?
Monkey Man will hit theatres in the United States on 5 April 2024.
– What is the plot of the movie Monkey Man?
Inspired by the Hindu legend of Hanuman, the movie follows Kid, played by Dev Patel, a young fighter surviving in underground arenas. After enduring years of abuse, Kid seeks revenge against the city’s corrupt elite who caused his suffering.
This story originally appeared in Augustman Singapore
Kratagya Rathore could possibly be your passport into the world of style, grooming, skincare, and mindful living. Fashion is as imperative to him as his daily 10,000 steps count. He is a raconteur, almost living his life in a musical; A social firefly who is also fluent in silence. A journalism grad, Kratagya has previously worked for Times Internet and The Times of India.
