A new horror film based on a short story by Stephen King has sparked outrage after plans were announced to screen it in churches across America. The film, titled “The Monkey,” stars Theo James as twin brothers who wind up a cursed toy monkey and become plagued by a series of deadly accidents. The story first appeared in King’s 1980 short story collection, “Skeleton Crew.” King himself has described the film as “bats**t insane.”
Director Osgood Perkins aimed to blend horror with dark comedy in the film.
“It wasn’t going to be dreadfully somber,” Perkins explained. “It was going to be more comedic and cosy, which I think seemed correct for a movie about a toy.”
However, the decision to show the film in churches has divided horror fans and religious communities. The backlash on social media has been swift and severe.
One user questioned, “Why?
Church screenings of ‘The Monkey’ debated
Is this a religious movie?
This makes no sense!” Others have been more critical, with some calling the screenings “blasphemous” and suggesting that churches involved should lose their tax-exempt status. “Christianity has turned into a mockery of faith. Why is no one opposing this?” another user commented.
Despite the outcry, the marketing stunt appears to be generating significant buzz ahead of the film’s release. It remains uncertain whether churches will actually host screenings, but the film will be available to watch in cinemas across the UK from February 21. “The Monkey,” already labeled as “insane” by Stephen King, continues to be a topic of heated debate not only for its content but also for its controversial choice of screening venues.
Fans and critics will soon be able to see for themselves if the film lives up to the hype and controversy it has ignited.