Dev Patel’s Monkey Man Disappoints in Directorial Debut
Dev Patel's Monkey Man fails to live up to expectations in his directorial debut, leaving viewers wanting more from the action thriller.
Dev Patel's Monkey Man: A Missed Opportunity
Let's talk about the golden rule of movies - never reference a film superior to the one you're currently watching. Sadly, Dev Patel's Monkey Man breaks this rule in a very distracting way. The explicit shoutout to John Wick in an early scene only serves to highlight the shortcomings of Patel's disappointing directorial debut.
While Patel deserves credit for his ambition in taking on multiple roles in the film - director, star, story writer, script co-writer, and co-producer, Monkey Man falls short in delivering a cohesive narrative. Patel's character, known as "Kid," embarks on a revenge mission that gets bogged down in unnecessary subplots and flashbacks, losing the sense of urgency that drives successful action thrillers like John Wick.
- John Wick vs. Monkey Man: A Comparison
The Good, the Bad, and the Smoldering
Patel's onscreen presence as Kid is commendable, with his tousled hair and intense eyes adding to the film's aesthetic appeal. However, Monkey Man struggles to find its footing, wavering between an action movie and a social commentary piece without fully committing to either. The fight scenes, while intense, lack the fluidity and precision of John Wick, instead leaning towards chaotic handheld camerawork reminiscent of Jason Bourne.
As Kid navigates the seedy underbelly of an Indian city, encountering corruption, poverty, and religious symbolism, the film loses sight of its core message. Patel's attempt to address issues like wealth inequality and systemic corruption gets lost in a convoluted plot that fails to resonate with the audience.
- Kid's Rise to Power at "Kings"
The Climactic Showdown and Abrupt Ending
Despite a few standout moments, Monkey Man's climax feels rushed and underwhelming, leaving many thematic threads unresolved. Patel's desire to create a thought-provoking action film is evident, but the execution falls short of the mark. While Monkey Man showcases Patel's potential as a filmmaker, it ultimately leaves viewers wanting more from the talented actor turned director.
In the end, Monkey Man serves as a reminder that crafting a successful action movie is no easy feat. With a rating of 5/10, the film leaves much to be desired in terms of pacing, storytelling, and thematic coherence.
Final Verdict: A Mixed Bag of Action and Social Commentary
Dev Patel's Monkey Man may not hit all the right notes, but it's a commendable effort from the actor turned director. While the film falls short of its ambitious goals, it serves as a stepping stone in Patel's directorial journey. As viewers, we can only hope that Patel's future projects strike a better balance between action and social commentary, delivering a more cohesive and engaging cinematic experience.
Hey, I'm Fateh Muhammad, a Lahore local with a passion for arts and politics. My journey led me through the halls of the National College of Arts, where I delved into the intricacies of both disciplines. Now calling Lahore home, I'm here to share my insights and perspectives on the dynamic intersection of art and politics. Let's embark on this enlightening journey together! Connect With Me .