In a surprising turn of events, actor Theo James and director Osgood Perkins have teamed up once again to bring Stephen King's short story "The Monkey" to the big screen. After their previous collaboration on an unsuccessful horror series, this new film showcases a blend of dark humor and suspense. James takes on the dual role of identical twins Hal and Bill Shelburn, whose lives are forever changed by a mysterious toy monkey left behind by their absent father. The film delves into themes of family curses, intergenerational trauma, and the psychological impact of childhood experiences. Through a mix of comedy and horror, "The Monkey" explores how past traumas can shape one's present and future.

Perkins' adaptation of Stephen King's work introduces a lighter tone compared to his earlier films, which were primarily focused on darker narratives. When James first read the script, he was initially taken aback by its comedic elements. However, after discussing it with Perkins, he realized that the levity was intentional. The film begins in 1999, following young Christian Convery as the adolescent version of the twins. As death starts plaguing their inner circle, they discard the cursed toy in a well. Fast forward 25 years, and James portrays the adult versions of Hal and Bill. Hal is now a lonely clerk who has distanced himself from his son due to fears of the family curse, while Bill has become obsessed with the monkey, even forming a cult-like devotion to it.

James shares insights into the character development process, revealing that the original script included more backstory for Bill. This included scenes where Bill was dishonorably discharged from the Army and later explored gender fluidity. Although these elements didn't make it into the final cut, they provided depth to Bill's character. James also discusses his career evolution, noting that he has moved away from large green-screen productions to more character-driven roles. His recent work in "The White Lotus" and "The Gentlemen" has garnered critical acclaim, including Emmy nominations. This shift in focus has allowed him to take greater risks and collaborate with directors like Guy Ritchie and Mike White.

Discussing the nature of the toy monkey itself, James expresses his fascination with the idea that the monkey might be a shared delusion within the Shelburn family. He emphasizes that the film is meant to be enjoyed as a fun, entertaining experience rather than a deep philosophical exploration. The monkey serves as a symbol onto which characters project their fears and insecurities. James also reflects on the challenges of playing two distinct yet connected characters, drawing on his own experiences with siblings and twin nieces to find authenticity in the roles. Overall, "The Monkey" stands out as a unique blend of horror and comedy, offering audiences both thrills and laughs.

As the film hits theaters, it marks a significant milestone in James' career. The collaboration with Perkins has resulted in a compelling narrative that explores complex themes through a lens of humor. With its intriguing plot and strong performances, "The Monkey" promises to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression. James' ability to navigate the dual roles of Hal and Bill showcases his versatility as an actor, while Perkins' direction brings a fresh perspective to Stephen King's work. Together, they have created a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering something for fans of both horror and comedy.