Monkey Man

Walking into the screening I was looking forward to a stylish action film, ala John Wick or the Raid films. Not only did Dev Patel deliver on that promise, matching those heavy hitters blow by blow, but he also targets the gods of modern culture. He asks his protagonist to do what Hanuman couldn't in the opening fable to find revenge and take them down one by one. What results is a film filled with passion and soul to match the extreme violence expected in modern-day action. Said gods are Capitalism, Organised Religion, and exploitation of minorities and lower class. Each is violently torn down by the eponymous Monkey Man as he grows from his initial failed attempt, with the support of a commune of hijra he finds balance in the masculine and feminine to become complete. The plot is simple yet explores the true enemies of the downtrodden in such a way that transcends its very specific setting. Whilst the film went through a troubling production I hope said troubles do not stop the actor/writer/director Dev Patel from being given the chance to share his vision again. Every aspect of the film he touches shines with his talent. I hope to see plenty more of him both as a leading man and creative behind the camera. This isn't a film with answers, at least systematic answers, it's a cathartic fuck you to the people that make others' lives worse for selfish gain. It takes aim and hits bullseye.