Film Journal 2024: Monkey-Man
Directed by Dev Patel
The comparisons to John Wick are warranted. So much so that we get a couple of direct nods in the film itself. Those comparisons are simply a jumping off point for something that is in fact a fusion of different ideas and influences. It functions almost as an intentional homage on this front, giving it a level of authenticity befitting a passion project.
On the John Wick front, any comparisons would postion this well in the vein of the first film. One of the clear differences between the two is, while that franchise is defined by its world building and mythology, using the hyper-violence as a means to explore and push different cinematic boundaries while, above all, entertaining its audience, Monkey-Man takes a more stripped down approach. It is earthy, grounded, and at its heart a more serious film, one that is immersed in some very real cultural notes and thematic interests evoking a legitimate historical backdrop. It is actually these characteristics that offer this film’s greatest sense of intrigue and surprise, taking the story into some unexpected places. Certainly helps that the films sudden release out of nowhere, a big ticket item that I don’t think anyone knew existed until not that long ago, also contributes to that sense of surprise. It is ultimately less interested in entertaining its audience than it is in challenging us to experience the transformation it is exploring on a human and spiritual level. Themes of retribution and justice run through the fabric of its story, grappling with the challenges of personal and social trauma and oppression it goes.
This is, of course, Dev Patel’s film, and as mentioned, I feel like this qualifies as a passion project. A film he felt he needed to make. It is new territory for him, and I think it really does help make him an intriguing voice to watch behind the camera as well as in front of it. A way of establishing his fingerprints and tabling his sensibilities as an artist, avoiding the polish and trappings of being over-produced and leaning into the sort of rough around the edges intimacy that let’s him experiment and take chances. And I’m here for it. I’m excited to see where he goes next.
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