Set in India, Monkey Man, directed by Dev Patel, draws inspiration from the legend of Hanuman and the John Wick series. Patel also stars in this R-rated revenge-thriller as an unnamed young man known as Kid who earns his keep in underground fight clubs. Wearing a gorilla mask, Kid stumbles upon an opportunity to seek vengeance against the group responsible for his mother’s demise while aiding the city’s downtrodden.
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Flashbacks reveal Kid’s bond with his mother and her teachings about Hanuman. His sole mission is to hunt down corrupt leaders like Rana Singh, the city’s police chief, and his mentor, Baba Shakti. To infiltrate their circle, Kid assumes the alias Bobby and secures a job at Queenie’s establishment, a hub for drugs and prostitution catering to the affluent. Alongside Sita, a fellow worker, Kid navigates the perilous terrain, ultimately confronting Rana during a Diwali celebration.
Despite inflicting fatal blows on Rana, Kid succumbs to injuries inflicted by Baba. However, he manages to eliminate Baba before succumbing to himself. Throughout the journey, Kid encounters Alpha and her group of transgender individuals living in a temple, which aids his cause. This portrayal of Kid fighting for the poor “systemically oppressed” trannies does, in large, explain why Universal Studios picked up Dev Patel’s Monkey Man or the poor man’s John Wick.
Dev Patel’s Monkey Man refrains from emulating John Wick entirely by infusing the narrative with cultural elements, notably Hanuman’s attributes of strength and self-control. Kid exemplifies these qualities, prioritizing his mission over personal gain and aiding the marginalized. The subplot involving the Hijras adds the typical Hollywood woke virtue signaling, showcasing their “resilience amidst systemic oppression.”
An integral aspect of the film focuses on Kid prioritizing others over his own concerns, intertwining with the narrative involving the Hijras, a marginalized group of trans women devoted to the Hindu goddess Bachuchara. Both Kid and the Hijras endure the oppression perpetuated by corrupt authorities in India, sharing parallel experiences of suffering. Their convergence leads to mutual support and collaboration, culminating in a frenetic action sequence where the Hijras display resilience and engage in combat, obviously emerging victorious. Stunning and brave, go trans!
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Action sequences, reminiscent of John Wick, captivate audiences with their intensity and close-quarter combat. The cinematography immerses viewers in the chaos, enhancing the visceral experience. Flashbacks gradually unveil Kid’s motivations, enriching the narrative with emotional depth and suspense.
Dev Patel delivers a compelling performance as Kid, supported by Pitobash’s portrayal of Alphonso, providing comic relief. However, Monkey Man transcends its lead actor, spotlighting the collective struggle against corruption and injustice.
Dev Patel’s Monkey Man offers a gritty portrayal of India’s underbelly, where corruption thrives and justice remains elusive. Through Kid’s journey, Dev Patel crafts a tale of resilience and retribution, underscored by themes of courage and sacrifice.
What do you think of Monkey Man by director Dev Patel? Leave a comment and let us know.
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