Dev Patel broke onto the big screen in Danny Boyle’s Slumdog Millionaire in 2008. Since then, the British actor has pushed the envelope of his skills, with every role meticulously chosen. Patel has already established himself as one of the finest actors of this generation, and his new film, Monkey Man, just drives the point home.
The Lion actor’s new movie has been met with rave reviews so far. Not only did Patel star as the protagonist, but he also took the reigns of the new film. And it looks like he has delivered on all fronts, resulting in a film that will be talked about for a long time.
What is Dev Patel’s Monkey Man about?
Monkey Man marks the directorial debut of the British actor. The film is heavily influenced by the legend of Hanuman, a deity in Hinduism known for his courage and strength. It also inspired the title of the film. Moreover, Patel leaned heavily into his love for martial artist Bruce Lee, Korean action films in general, and the tales he grew up listening to from his grandfather.
Set in India, the film tells the story of the Kid, who partakes in an underground fight club by wearing a monkey mask. He makes a small living by competing against better fighters, and night after night, he is beaten to a pulp.
Things quickly take a darker turn, leaving the young man on a hunt to take down his mother’s murderers. It also touches upon how corrupt leaders systemically exploit the poor and the helpless.
Dev Patel had to overcome a lot of hurdles when shooting the movie. Filmed mostly during the COVID-19 pandemic, which had its fair share of challenges, the actor also lost his father to a heart attack.
It took a toll on Patel physically too, since he broke his foot mere weeks before filming. To make matters worse, he then broke his hand during the shoot as well. His plastered hand even makes an appearance in one of the scenes. “You can see in the film, there’s a wrap on my hand,” said Patel (via Deadline).
Monkey Man is causing waves already
Universal Studios is still high off the success of Dune 2, and it looks like they have another hit on their hands with this film. The actor will be seen in a totally new avatar, fully embraced by the audience, if the reception at the Paramount Theatre is anything to go by.
Patel has been earning plaudits for giving his all as an actor, director, producer, and even writer of the film. He earned a standing ovation at the SXSW premiere, quite a rare feat.
Accolades have been pouring in for Patel and the film. Those who have already watched the film took to social media to rave about it.
#MonkeyMan is INSANE.
Excellent cinematography, exceptional storytelling, jaw dropping action sequences and a phenomenal direction by Dev Patel. A massive cinematic achievement.
Full review soon. #SXSW pic.twitter.com/sk5VgbL7br
— The Hollywood Handle (@HollywoodHandle) March 12, 2024
2 minute long standing ovation in a packed 1,200 person theater for #MonkeyMan #DevPatel #SXSW pic.twitter.com/xCswHIwlO8
— Sean Chandler @ SXSW (@kirkneverdied) March 12, 2024
Dev Patel does not hold back in #MonkeyMan. His directorial debut and his love letter to action films. Well deserving of its 2 minute standing ovation. Go see this with all your friends. #sxsw pic.twitter.com/VDa9EmFT3K
— Luke Irvin (@thelukeirvin) March 12, 2024
I think I have never been as proud of a career trajectory as I am now of Dev Patel’s from Skins to #MonkeyMan. He has created a hard-hitting action masterpiece that in full of pulsating emotion throughout. Thank God it’s coming to theaters! #SXSW pic.twitter.com/zu4h7dI0I3
— The Distracted Tatiana @ SXSW (@myrcellasear) March 12, 2024
Universal bought the film from Netflix, and Jordan Peele had a big part in it. When he saw the film, he knew that it deserved to be released on the big screen. Monkey Man will be released on April 5.
