THE PREMISE:

"An anonymous young man unleashes a campaign of vengeance against the corrupt leaders who murdered his mother and continue to systemically victimize the poor and powerless." 

OUR MOVIE REVIEW:

Dev Patel shines (Disclaimer: unintentional Monkey Shines reference) in his directorial debut Monkey Man in which he also stars as a likable underdog turned action hero seeking revenge for the murder of his mother. Patel is a multitalented force to be reckoned with as writer, director and star who bares his soul on screen. His blood, sweat and tears are on full display both on camera and behind it. The film’s visuals mesmerize the audience throughout. Cinematographer Sharone Meir (Whiplash) crafts a film chalked with vibrant colors and creative, daring shots. These stunning visuals in tandem with the heart thumping soundtrack and score , draw you into a gritty underworld of India and immediately throw you against the ropes and pummel you with nonstop, heart thumping action that is a thrill to watch on the big screen. 

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It’s been a long time since I’ve felt a shared experience with an audience of fellow moviegoers. We were all in sync, cheering on our protagonist as he overcame insurmountable odds, mercilessly battling an onslaught of baddies. Dev Patel is magnificent in the lead role of a bare knuckles fighter who dons a monkey mask as he takes on challengers in the boxing ring for cash. Patel is a magnetic personality on screen who is easy to get behind and root for on his blazing path to revenge. The action choreography is creative, brash, and isn’t afraid to play dirty as Monkey Man lays waste to dozens of goons in grisly, balls to the wall fashion. 

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Monkey Man is stylized, character driven, impeccably choreographed action that will leave you on the edge of your seat, mouth agape in awe of its spectacle. I look forward to what Dev Patel’s promising young filmmaking career brings next after this dynamite debut.