Monkey Man

REVIEW:

Dev Patel steps into the director’s chair for the first time with Monkey Man, a brutal and stylish revenge thriller that showcases his passion for storytelling and action cinema. As well as being the main star, Patel’s directorial debut is highly impressive, delivering an immersive and gritty world that feels raw and authentic. His vision for the film is clear—this isn’t just another action movie, but one with deep emotional weight and cultural significance. While some may expect a straightforward genre piece, Monkey Man has a distinct personality that sets it apart from its contemporaries.

A common talking point about Monkey Man is the comparison to John Wick, with some even calling it “the Indian John Wick.” The film itself playfully acknowledges this, particularly in a scene where Patel’s character is offered the same model handgun as Keanu Reeves’ legendary assassin, as well as a moment involving a cute dog—another nod to the John Wick franchise. However, the similarities end there. Unlike John Wick, Patel’s character isn’t a highly skilled assassin; he’s a brawler, a man fuelled by trauma and rage rather than finesse and precision. His fighting style is rough and unrefined, making the action feel more grounded and visceral.

The pacing of Monkey Man is one of its biggest hurdles. The movie is structured around two major fight sequences, with a slow build-up in between. Early on, the film takes its time setting up the protagonist’s struggles before delivering a standout fight scene in a nightclub bathroom. However, after this brutal encounter, the movie slows down significantly as Patel’s character recovers and focuses on sharpening his combat skills. While this approach adds realism to his journey, it might not satisfy viewers expecting relentless action akin to The Raid or John Wick. This is a slow burn, but when it kicks off, it really kicks off.

One of the most intense and unforgettable sequences takes place in an Indian brothel, where Patel’s character faces off against a man wielding an axe. The film does not hold back in its depiction of violence, embracing a raw and unflinching brutality that heightens the stakes. Patel ensures that every hit lands with weight, making the combat feel punishing and personal. The way the story unfolds—through fragmented flashbacks and subtle reveals—gradually connects the dots of his traumatic past. Once the film fully unveils the horrors he endured as a child, his quest for vengeance becomes even more compelling, making the audience fully invested in his mission to take down the corrupt officials responsible for his suffering.

Visually, Monkey Man embraces a gritty aesthetic that captures the harsher realities of life in India. The cinematography immerses the audience in a world that feels alive, yet unforgiving. At first, the action sequences are heavily reliant on shaky cam, which can be frustrating for those who prefer clearer choreography. However, as the protagonist’s confidence and fighting abilities grow, so does the clarity of the camerawork. Whether this was an intentional artistic choice or not, it’s an interesting progression. That said, shaky cam remains a divisive technique, and while it serves a purpose here, it may still detract from the experience for some viewers.

The film’s soundtrack complements its intense and emotional beats, blending atmospheric sounds with pulse-pounding tracks that elevate key moments. Music plays an integral role in setting the tone, adding to the film’s energy without overpowering the story. While the score may not be as instantly iconic as some other action films, it enhances the experience in a way that feels natural rather than forced.

Perhaps the most frustrating aspect of Monkey Man is its abrupt ending. After delivering a satisfying climax where the villains meet their deserved fate, the film cuts to black, leaving many unanswered questions. What happens next? Where does the protagonist go from here? While some may appreciate the open-ended conclusion, it feels like there’s more story left to tell. A little more resolution would have helped in making the ending feel complete rather than abrupt.

Overall, Monkey Man is a strong action debut from Dev Patel, who proves himself as a capable and ambitious director. While the film has its flaws—pacing issues, occasional shaky cam, and an abrupt ending—it also delivers some truly exhilarating moments and a compelling protagonist. This isn’t just another John Wick clone; it’s a raw and emotionally charged revenge story that carves out its own space in the genre. It leaves a lot to be desired, but it’s absolutely worth a watch.