Once there was a man whose prison was a chair. The man had a monkey, they made the strangest pair. The monkey ruled the man, it climbed inside his head. And now as fate would have it, one of them is dead.
A quadriplegic man is given a trained monkey help him with every day activities, until the little monkey begins to develop feelings, and rage, against its new master and those who get too close to him.
"Monkey Shines," directed by George A. Romero, offers a compelling exploration of the themes of dependency and control. The film centers on Allan, a quadriplegic man whose life is transformed by a trained monkey named Ella, designed to assist him with daily tasks. However, as the story unfolds, the dynamic shifts dramatically, revealing the psychological complexities of reliance on another being. Romero deftly juxtaposes Allan's physical limitations with Ella's burgeoning autonomy, ultimately raising questions about the nature of obedience and the potential dangers of blurring the lines between caretaker and creature. This tension serves as a metaphor for the human experience of vulnerability, making the film resonate on a deeper emotional level.
Culturally, "Monkey Shines" emerged during a period when horror was evolving in the late 1980s, transitioning from slasher films to more psychological narratives. Romero, known for his influential work in the zombie genre, took a bold step into the realm of psychological horror, highlighting fears surrounding technology, science, and the unpredictability of nature. The film taps into the anxieties of the time, reflecting a growing awareness of ethical dilemmas in scientific experimentation, particularly concerning animal rights and the implications of medical advancements. This cultural backdrop enriches the viewing experience, as audiences in the late '80s grappled with their own fears of losing control over the rapidly changing world.
The cinematography of "Monkey Shines" is particularly noteworthy, as it employs a unique visual style to enhance the unsettling atmosphere of the story. Romero collaborates with cinematographer Michael Gornick to create a series of striking visuals that emphasize the disorientation felt by Allan. The use of tight close-ups and unusual camera angles places viewers in Allan’s perspective, effectively conveying his sense of isolation and helplessness. Moreover, the film employs clever camera tricks to symbolize Ella’s increasing dominance, such as low-angle shots that give the monkey an imposing presence. This innovative approach to cinematography not only heightens the horror but also deepens the viewer's emotional connection to Allan's plight.
In terms of production history, "Monkey Shines" stands out as a significant project for Romero, showcasing his versatility as a filmmaker. Originally conceived as a novel by Michael Stewart, the adaptation faced several challenges, including budget constraints and a tumultuous production schedule. Nevertheless, Romero's vision prevailed, resulting in a film that marries horror with poignant social commentary. Additionally, the film features a notable performance from Jason Beghe as Allan, whose portrayal of a man struggling with both physical and emotional challenges adds layers of depth to the narrative. Despite initial mixed reviews, "Monkey Shines" has since gained a cult following, cementing its place in the pantheon of horror cinema and showcasing Romero's ability to push boundaries while exploring the darker facets of the human experience.
