At just age 33, the London-born, Indian actor Dev Patel is already a bonafide superstar with an impressive acting resume. Be it his breakout role in 2008’s Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire, his infectious charisma in The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, or his soulful turn in The Green Knight, Patel proves he is an actor of great power and versatility. That his first time in the director’s seat (with Jordan Peele’s Monkey Paw Productions producing) is such an audacious, gritty, and visual feast for the eyes only feels appropriate. Patel’s strong handle on visual language, compelling action set pieces, and strong character moments make Monkey Man a compelling watch despite a few rough patches.
What is Monkey Man about?
Patel plays Kid, a tortured young man haunted by visions of his traumatic childhood. He makes a modest living challenging various fighters at Tiger’s Temple, a seedy, underground fight club. Each night, blow by blow, we witness him channel his inner rage, wearing a dingy, weathered monkey mask. Now, this is no ordinary way to blow off steam. It is more of a means to an end or a rite of passage to strengthen his resolve in preparation for his TRUE agenda: Avenging the Brutal Death of His Mother. Baba Shakti (Makarand Deshpande), a tyrannical spiritual leader turned merciless political figure, and Rana Singh (Sikandar Her), a dishonorable police chief, are the ones to blame. Upon learning of their frequent appearances at a local high-end brothel, Kid seeks their employment to exact his revenge. Of course, not without a dozen or more intricate, life-threatening obstacles to tackle beforehand.
What does Monkey Man have to offer outside of the action spectacle?
On the surface, Monkey Man may appear to be a typical action film albeit with more eye-popping visuals than most. However, underneath its stylish exterior is a social commentary on the contemporary Indian government and the consequences of authoritarianism. When considering the rise of Hindu nationalism, the silencing of journalists, and corrupt law enforcement in India, Monkey Man’s existence feels more prescient than perfunctory. To a less extreme, but arguably growing extent, we’ve seen parallels in our own country. When political figures attempt to use religious beliefs to justify and inform legislation against their people’s wishes, the themes in the film resonate more deeply.
Of course, these elements, aren’t the film’s primary focus. They merely create a gritty and realistic backdrop for the film’s larger objective: To Kick Some Serious Ass! And, ass-kick, it does. Admittedly, the first act of this ambitious piece suffers from pacing issues and rushed plot points. However, once the core narrative kicks into gear, it moves at a muscular, breakneck pace. Patel has a magnetic, commanding presence and the action choreography is thrilling to behold. Monkey Man conjures the spirit, the style, and the brutality of films like The Raid and John Wick with a Bollywood-esque flair. It also marks a knockout debut from true talent in front of and behind the camera.
