By Aranyak Goswami
Monkey Man – A testament to cinematic excellence
Premise
Movies, in whatever form they are made, reflect what happens in society. Whether it is a thoroughly entertaining commercial potboiler or a harrowing tale of stark reality, movies mirror the events of everyday life. The goal of successful moviemaking is to tell a story with cinematic elegance while also being entertaining. I believe in the consensus that movies are a medium that helps transport people to a different reality where the everyday machinations of life can no longer touch them, even if only for the limited screen time.
Monkey Man, directed by Dev Patel, has been able to achieve this balance aesthetically. The movie is packaged as a high-octane action thriller, which it indeed is, featuring exhilarating action scenes with poetic action choreography and razor-sharp editing. However, it also does a remarkable job of depicting the current atrocities that a country endures when autocratic capitalism remains at the helm of power. The poor are marginalized, acting merely as agents of multiplying more capital through extortion and continued exploitation.
Monkey Man begins its journey as an ordinary revenge drama, where the oppressed protagonist, exploited by the powerful sections of society and persecuted alongside his mother, takes on all major obstacles and embarks on a bloodbath. However, soon the individual journey of the protagonist transforms into a mission. The plight of his mother and the atrocities faced by the entire marginalized sections of society at the hands of the rich and powerful become emblematic of the broader societal struggle which becomes the cornerstone of his conflict. Let us discuss each of the individual departments one by one.
Direction
Directing a high-octane action thriller is a very demanding job. However, acting in such a movie while also directing is even more challenging. Dev Patel, as a first-time director, handles this job with great aplomb. The framework of the story is so grounded, and the settings so realistic, that it feels like a routine slice of everyday life as we traverse through shady streets, blind alleys, and putrid slums.
The way the lighting has been done, along with the use of single long shots featuring steady and jerky camera movements, often employing guerrilla techniques, adds a level of aesthetic realism to each frame. The framing of action scenes, depicting detailed choreography of coordinated movements and actions, produces a visually masterful experience. Since the movie heavily relies on action scenes, storytelling through deft martial arts choreography makes the movie fluid and poignant.
What director Dev Patel has achieved is elevate this project from a mundane, slick action flick to a humanist approach, delivering a deep internal message that will leave an indelible mark on your life even after the movie is over, leaving you with a lingering sense of connection.
Performances
Whenever you are working on a movie that has a strong innate message, a reassuring performance from the acting crew is crucial. The way the group performs, as a compelling ensemble, helps the protagonist to shine and reinforces the mission of the project. Dev has been very successful in extracting the best performances from the overall cast.
This ensemble performance has been spearheaded by a towering performance by Dev Patel himself. He has owned every frame and has reflected so much truthfulness and sincerity that the audience slowly starts vouching and rooting for him. He has been ably supported by performances from Sikander Kher, Vipin Sharma, and an enigmatic Makrand Deshpande, along with all the supporting crew who were responsible for creating the perfect milieu and ambiance of the movie.
Editing and cinematography
Very rarely, from the perspective of an ordinary cinephile, are you invested in the technical aspects of a movie unless they are intrinsically related to the plot and amplify the setting and atmosphere, becoming an important device to advance the plot. The editing of the movie is crisp and precise, helping to advance the plot with a lyrical fluidity.
The way Monkey Man has been shot also deserves special mention. The movie includes all kinds of camera movements, ranging from steady shots to jarring, guerrilla-level jump cuts that slice through winding roads and luxurious hotel alleys. These dynamic camera movements create a melancholic setting of light and a somber atmosphere, enhancing the film’s emotional depth. The cinematographer’s ability to switch between different styles of shooting keeps the visual experience engaging and unpredictable. The contrast between the frenetic energy of chase scenes and the stillness of introspective moments is striking, making each scene visually compelling.
Music
The music of Monkey Man is a standout element that significantly enhances the film’s overall impact. Composed by the talented Jed Kurzel, the score masterfully intertwines with the narrative, accentuating both the high-octane action scenes and the more introspective moments. Kurzel’s soundtrack features a blend of traditional orchestral compositions and contemporary electronic beats, creating a soundscape that is both dynamic and emotionally resonant. The use of music to build tension is particularly effective, with pulsating rhythms and dramatic crescendos that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. In quieter scenes, the music shifts to softer, more melancholic melodies, reflecting the protagonist’s inner turmoil and adding depth to the storytelling. This thoughtful integration of music not only complements the film’s visual elements but also elevates the overall cinematic experience, making Monkey Man a memorable auditory journey as well.
Overall Experience
Monkey Man is a cinematic triumph that stands out for its artful direction, sharp editing, stunning cinematography, and compelling acting. Each element combines to create a movie experience that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The film’s ability to maintain high tension while exploring complex characters and themes is commendable. It is a movie that will resonate with audiences, leaving them both entertained and reflective.
A special mention is deserved for Jordan Peele, who, beyond directing movies with deep inner meaning and aesthetic beauty, has supported Dev in directing this audacious film filled with radical events.
Limitations
While Monkey Man excels in many areas, it is not without flaws. The complexity of the plot can be confusing, the rapid editing pace may disorient some viewers, and the frequent use of dynamic camera movements might overwhelm the audience. Additionally, certain secondary characters could have been better developed to enhance the story further.
Conclusion
Monkey Man stands out as a must-see for enthusiasts of the action-thriller genre and aficionados of cinematic artistry. The film not only meets but often exceeds expectations for thrilling entertainment through its masterful direction, sharp editing, stunning cinematography, and compelling performances. Despite its complexities and occasional narrative convolutions, Monkey Man captivates its audience with a gripping storyline and emotional depth. The dynamic camera movements, exceptional soundtrack by Jed Kurzel, and nuanced acting create a rich, immersive experience. Although there are moments where the rapid pacing and ambitious plot might challenge viewers, these elements contribute to the film’s unique and engaging character. Ultimately, Monkey Man distinguishes itself in its category, offering a remarkable blend of visual and emotional storytelling that resonates long after the credits roll.
Rating: 4/5
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