Elevator doors open to reveal a crimson backdrop. Forming a silhouette against it, is the blood-soaked Monkey Man. This scene, in all its epic glory, will undoubtedly be one of the film’s most memorable moments. Furthermore, it is a bold image that perfectly defines Monkey Man’s tone and demonstrates the unique talent of its first-time director.

On the surface, Monkey Man may look like yet another John Wick (which is directly alluded to) mutation. Yet, for first-time director and star Dev Patel, his creation is far more personal than just another reimagining. Having co-written the story with Paul Angunawela and John Collee, the trio offers far more complex motivations for their character. Patel boldly explores the underpinnings that lead his character down a rage-fueled revenge tour, all while engraining Monkey Man with splashes of history, mythology, socio-political commentary, and bucket loads of unrelenting violence.

Dev Patel in MONKEY MAN, directed by Dev PatelThe bloodletting journey begins innocently enough, with a child learning of the legend of Hanuman from his mother Neela (Adithi Kalkunte). Both belong to the “undesirable” end of the caste system, which would bring tragedy to them and their town. After witnessing the brutal police chief Rana (Sikandar Kher) commit heinous acts, the child’s existence is marred with the unbearable need for revenge. In the role, Patel also manages to expertly navigates the rage and deep anguish that motivate the anonymous “Kid”.

Audiences are introduced to Kid as an underground fighter, receiving constant punishing blows at the orders of his promoter Tiger (Sharlto Copley). The world he operates in allows him to obtain information on his lifelong targets. After closely monitoring the manager of a brothel named Queenie (Ashwini Kalsekar) and forming a trusting relationship with shady coworker Alphonso (Pitobash), Kid finds himself in an ideal situation to realize his goal. Ultimately, the outcome of that encounter introduces him to the opportunity of self-reflection. During this period, Kid realizes what his true purpose is, and with help from the mystical Alpha (Vipin Sharma) embraces this higher calling.

Patel has created something singular. Yes, Monkey Man is very much a revenge flick, but Patel places the action on a complex vehicle. Throughout, he makes sure to showcase the different societies at play. The humble villages and dark streets of the slums are presented in stark contrast to the luxurious high rises that overlook them. These worlds intersect, with Sita (Sobhita Dhulipala) serving as a window for a view on exploitation. Underworld dealings of survival are pinned against the abuse they have sprouted from. Corruption at the hands of politicians and gurus (Makarand Deshpande) controls the population. Special care, no matter how brief, is taken to highlight the components that fuels the different factions on play.

Adding to the experience is the mythology of Hanuman, the Monkey Man. Upon learning about the stories as a child, Kid masks himself with a gorilla mask while fighting in the ring. When going against his true enemies, the mask comes off, with Kid becoming an almost literal version of the myth. Patel breaks down the Monkey Man legend and his character’s transfiguration using unique storytelling elements. The real world makes way for an ethereal transformation, suggesting some higher power may be at play. For key instances, Patel travels down an unexpected and unforgettable detour of unique visual decisions that further highlight the boldness with which Patel tackles his film.

Along with director of photography Sharone Meir, Patel also creates mesmerizing action sequences. Cameras are ideally placed for capturing every performance of the brutal ballet. Patel employs a shaky cam effect, where each crunch, snap, and tear at the scarred hands of Kid are keenly seen and heard. Also, the combat is mostly void of any firearms, ensuring that the hand-to-hand proximity of the bouts causes more impression. Patel’s commitment extends to his physical transformation as well, apropos for delivering beatdowns while in front of the camera. Add in a score from Jed Kurzel that keeps the adrenaline pumping and the sum of all the parts makes Monkey Man a visceral experience.

For a relatively simple plot, Monkey Man ends up being quite dense. Patel manages to deliver on his vision, albeit at times imperfectly. An overreliance on flashbacks ultimately affects the pacing. The film also struggles to maintain focus on each of the subjects presented. A better distribution of runtime would allow certain topics more time to develop. All the different elements at play threaten to overflow the cup, but Patel still succeeds overall in making the different pieces work together, regardless of some unevenness.

Ultimately, Monkey Man is a deeply personal film. Patel has declared his creed with the history, faith, and the current political climate that defines his culture. In the process, not only has he solidified his spot as one of Hollywood’s most talented individuals, but he has also redefined his career. Monkey Man is a bold initial directing attempt for Patel, and the result is a resounding, bloody success.

Borja’s Rating 8/10Watch Monkey Man in theaters on April 5, 2024. Check out Alan’s review from SXSW here! Please check out other Sunshine State Cineplex reviews here!The post Review: MONKEY MAN – Dev Patel’s Savage Directorial Debut is a Bloody Success appeared first on Sunshine State Cineplex.