Oz Perkins Reveals Personal Ties to Horror in New Film 'The Monkey'

• by Arlen Fitzpatrick
• 0 Comments

Oz Perkins, the son of the legendary *Psycho* actor Anthony Perkins, has a unique connection to the horror genre, weaving personal tragedy into his storytelling. His upcoming film, *The Monkey*, showcases this blend of personal experience and genre expertise. Perkins' life has been shaped by the shadow of his father's death from AIDS and the devastating loss of his mother Berry Berenson during the 9/11 attacks. These events deeply influence his work, providing a wellspring of emotional depth that permeates his films.

Melding Personal Pain with Cinematic Horror

Taking inspiration from Stephen King's chilling short story, *The Monkey* explores the macabre through a darkly comedic lens. The film is reminiscent of Sam Raimi's cult classic *Evil Dead II* with its blend of gonzo gore and humor. It tells the tale of twin brothers, played by Christian Convery, who are terrorized by a cursed toy monkey that orchestrates bizarre and fatal happenings. Through this narrative, Perkins delves into existential themes, examining life's transient nature and the eerie inevitability of death. Yet, rather than succumbing to despair, Perkins uses his work to affirm the vitality of life.

This film marks a shift in Perkins' approach, showcasing a more playful side, contrasting his earlier works like *The Blackcoat’s Daughter* and *Longlegs*, known for their brooding and psychological undercurrents. Here, the humor is just as important as the horror, serving as a vehicle to explore deep-seated fears and emotions.

Freedom in Creativity

To maintain the film's distinct tone, Perkins chose to collaborate with Neon, an independent distributor, ensuring creative autonomy and steering clear of the constraints often imposed by major studios. By doing so, he preserved the film's unconventional spirit, free from commercial expectations that might dilute its unique voice.

Even the film's design elements bear Perkins' personal touch. Originally planned to feature a classic drumming toy monkey, the design had to be altered to sidestep Disney's copyright claims. This detail highlights the challenges of bringing obstinate creative visions to life.

The film's twin protagonists echo Perkins' relationship with his own brother, influenced by the shared trauma of losing their parents. The director often uses such familial ties to add layers of authenticity to his storytelling, inviting audiences to explore the narrative through shared human experiences.

Looking ahead, Perkins continues to chart his own course in cinema, hinting at upcoming projects like *Keeper*, which promises further explorations into the realms of grief and horror. His work not only entertains but also invites reflection on the darker aspects of human existence, making a powerful case for horror as a medium of existential exploration.