Stephen King’s Best Movie Linked to New Horror ‘The Monkey’

by

In a fresh take on horror cinema, “The Monkey” is a film conceived by the creative genius Osgood Perkins. Notably, this chilling production features an intriguing reference or hidden gem (Easter egg) that ties back to what many consider Stephen King’s finest work.

While filmmaker Osgood Perkins was responsible for the script and direction of The Monkey, the movie is based on a chilling short story by Stephen King that was initially published in a magazine back in 1980. Later, this spine-tingling tale found its place in King’s Skeleton Crew collection, which hit bookstores in 1985.

The central tale unfolds around a toy monkey, which forms an unexpected bond with a family, causing chaos and devastation wherever it goes. This narrative serves as the basis for our compilation of top eliminations in “The Monkey’s” kill count.

This movie doesn’t have numerous hidden references (Easter eggs), but there’s one connection that is quite noticeable, reminiscent of our beloved Stephen King film. However, to clarify the correlation, be aware that we’ll need to venture into SPOILER territory…

How The Monkey references Stephen King’s Misery

At the beginning of the film, Lois (played by Tatiana Maslany) sends her twin sons out with a caretaker identified as “Annie” (portrayed by Danica Dreyer). This is revealed when Lois explicitly addresses her as “Babysitter Annie.

The nanny faces troubles, as the toy seems to be exerting some ominous influence. Unfortunately, during a meal out with the boys at a Japanese restaurant, the chef unfortunately and tragically mistakes the nanny for an inanimate object and accidentally chops off her head.

What’s surprising, disturbing, yet oddly humorous in Perkins’ portrayal. However, the filmmaker takes an unusual turn at the character’s funeral; as the priest recites her full name, it’s revealed to be none other than… Annie Wilkes.

True aficionados of Stephen King’s works will recognize Annie Wilkes as either the protagonist or antagonist from his 1987 novel “Misery.” This character gained significant recognition when Kathy Bates portrayed her in the 1990 movie version, earning an Oscar for her outstanding performance.

It appears there’s a character named Beulah from the original work who unfortunately meets her end at the hands of her partner. However, this character doesn’t seem to share any direct connections with what we have here.

Related

Presence ending explained: Who is the ghost & is the spirit evil?

In this adaptation, Annie Wilkes from Misery doesn’t fit because she lives a lot longer in the original story. Therefore, we can’t establish a common continuity or world between them.

Instead, it appears to function more like an homage for King enthusiasts. However, it’s quite peculiar because it instantly transported me back to the movie, leaving me somewhat puzzled, and pondering whether other references would be found in The Monkey. Yet, upon further inspection, I discovered that it doesn’t contain such references. Thus, the reference to Annie Wilkes is as intriguing as the monkey at the center of Perkins’ film.

Currently showing in theaters, don’t miss our take on unexpected appearances in “The Monkey” and its conclusion demystified. Meanwhile, visit TopMob for their compilation of the greatest horror films ever made.

Read More

2025-02-21 12:48