The imminent release of Osgood Perkins’ newest horror film, *The Monkey*, is stirring excitement within the film industry and among genre enthusiasts alike. With its first trailer achieving exceptional viewership numbers that surpass typical expectations, it has garnered over 109 million views across multiple platforms, including TikTok. Set to premiere on February 21, this film is poised to make a significant impact upon its release.
The early reception of *The Monkey* has been nothing short of remarkable. Within just 24 hours of its online debut, the trailer amassed an astounding 43 million views. This figure soon eclipsed the 100 million mark within the following 72 hours—a remarkable achievement, particularly for an independent horror film produced outside of the Major Studios of America (MPA). The latest trends and analytics, provided by WaveMetrix, signal an evolving landscape in trailer viewership, suggesting that *The Monkey* is reshaping the expectations of horror film marketing.
Interestingly, in a marketplace where the competition is fierce, *The Monkey* positions itself as a leader. Previous horror hits, like *28 Years Later* and *It Chapter Two*, have set the grounds for what it means to be a blockbuster horror film. However, *The Monkey* is making waves by not only claiming its spot but also outshining predecessors with trailers for films like *Smile* and *Nosferatu*, which have previously dominated viewership metrics.
At the heart of this film lies a sinister tale that follows twin brothers who come across a peculiar wind-up monkey. The plot thickens as the brothers face a series of gruesome deaths that fracture their family bond. Fast forward 25 years, and the curse of the wind-up toy resurfaces, reigniting conflicts between the estranged siblings as they are compelled to confront their traumatic past. With a stellar cast that includes Theo James and Tatiana Maslany, the film promises to bring depth to its chilling story, combining talent with potent narrative threads.
The collaboration behind *The Monkey* is noteworthy and reflects the project’s ambitious undertones. Produced by notable industry figures, including James Wan—known for his work on *The Conjuring* and *Saw*—and Michael Clear, this film is backed by the expertise and acclaim of seasoned producers. Their combined experience and innovative vision lend an air of credibility and anticipation surrounding the project’s potential success.
Just last week, in a bid to heighten public intrigue, Neon conducted a secret screening at Beyond Fest in Hollywood, giving audiences their first look at the film. Such strategic marketing moves create a buzz and cement *The Monkey* as a must-watch title in a saturated horror marketplace. As the release date approaches, the industry and fans alike will be watching closely to see if *The Monkey* delivers on its promise and possibly redefines independent horror cinema for years to come.