StaffOn February 13, 2025, Neon hosted the Los Angeles premiere of their latest psychological thriller, “The Monkey,” at the historic Immanuel Presbyterian Church. The choice of venue added an atmospheric depth to the evening, aligning seamlessly with the film’s eerie undertones.
Adapted from Stephen King’s chilling short story, “The Monkey” delves into the lives of twin brothers, Hal and Bill, who stumble upon a sinister monkey toy in their attic. This discovery triggers a series of inexplicable and gruesome events, compelling the brothers to confront their shared past and the malevolent force they’ve unleashed.
The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast, headlined by Theo James as Hal and Elijah Wood as Bill. Tatiana Maslany portrays the enigmatic figure intertwined with the brothers’ fate, while Christian Convery and Colin O’Brien take on the roles of young Hal and Bill, respectively, capturing the innocence and subsequent trauma of the characters’ youth.
The Monkey LA Premiere
The red carpet was a star-studded affair, with the cast making striking appearances. Theo James exuded classic charm in a tailored black tuxedo, complemented by a crisp white shirt and a sleek black tie. Tatiana Maslany turned heads in a floor-length emerald green gown, featuring intricate beadwork that shimmered under the venue’s ambient lighting. Elijah Wood opted for a modern twist, donning a navy blue suit paired with a patterned tie, reflecting his eclectic style.
Director Oz Perkins, known for his mastery in the horror genre, arrived in a sophisticated charcoal gray suit, expressing his enthusiasm for bringing another of King’s works to the big screen. Producers James Wan opted for a crisp navy suit and Michael Clear donned a classic black blazer were also in attendance.
The event drew a diverse crowd of industry professionals and enthusiasts. Notable attendees included Stephanie Hsu, who dazzled in a silver sequin dress, and Sobhita Dhulipala, radiant in a deep burgundy velvet gown. Their presence added a touch of international flair to the evening, highlighting the film’s global appeal.
The other notable guests that arrived at the premiere were Giselle Bourget, Edward J. Douglas, Christian Convery, Theo James, Brendan Hines, Brian Kavanaugh-Jones, Chris Ferguson, James Wan, Nikki McCartney, Osgood Perkins, Lou Lou Safran, Natalia Safran, Peter Safran, Dave Caplan, Emily Caplan, Colin O’Brien, Rohan Campbell, Edo Van Breemen, Eugenio Battaglia, Elijah Wood, Tess Degenstein, Sarah Levy, Mica Kayde, Ruth Kearney, John Rickard, Genevieve Vincent, Emily Palos, Bea Perkins, Beatrix Perkins, Ian MacDonald and Heather Taylor.
A unique aspect of the premiere was its setting within the Immanuel Presbyterian Church. The gothic architecture and stained-glass windows provided a hauntingly beautiful backdrop, enhancing the film’s eerie themes. This unconventional choice of venue was met with intrigue and admiration from attendees, many noting the immersive experience it provided.
The Monkey Film Release Date
As the screening commenced, the audience was enveloped in the film’s suspenseful narrative, with palpable tension resonating throughout the historic halls. Post-screening, the cast and crew participated in a Q&A session, delving into the challenges of adapting King’s work and the collaborative efforts that brought the story to life.
Early reactions from the premiere have been overwhelmingly positive. Critics and fans alike praised the film’s faithful adaptation, atmospheric direction, and standout performances, particularly highlighting the chemistry between James and Wood as the tormented brothers. The Monkey is set for a wide theatrical release on February 21, 2025, and is poised to be a standout in the year’s psychological thriller genre. With its compelling narrative, talented cast, and the visionary direction of Oz Perkins, the film is anticipated to captivate audiences worldwide.
In conclusion, the Los Angeles premiere of “The Monkey” was a resounding success, blending Hollywood glamour with the film’s haunting themes. The choice of the Immanuel Presbyterian Church as the venue added a distinctive touch, making it a memorable evening for all in attendance. As the film gears up for its official release, anticipation continues to build, marking “The Monkey” as a must-watch cinematic experience of 2025.
