Art Thoughts: Monkey Man.
This film is a visceral, powerful take on the very core of being stuck in the socio-cultural level you are born into. It takes this core reality that is felt the world over but is something every Indian comes to terms with at some point in their life.
There is a constant feeling of being up against the odds. As though there is no winning and that fuels the innate human desire to see the underdog win. The film's utilization of the contrasting dark and lit set pieces is one of its most memorable uses of light and color. The violence is always purpose-driven and reminds us of the trauma and heartache that The Monkey Man (Bobby) experienced.
The fact that the movie reminds us consistently of the memory and the panic that accompanies it is so well done. Allowing the audience to sit with the discomfort of the reality of corruption and greed.
This film's action is second to none and the shots used so often puts us as viewers in the driving seat. It pulls no punches and doesn't ask for you to be on board.
It is simply a matter of jump off the ride or buckle in.
The way the film addresses the realities of the underworld of India may at times feel stereotypical but more often than not, it brings a sense of heightened experiential storytelling that allows Dev Patel and @jordanpeele vision to soar.
Dev Patel is a delight as always, bringing layers of complexity and intelligent acting to every moment he's on screen, leaving us intrigued when we see him, and worried when we don't.
There is no moment in this film that didn't serve a purpose.
As a young man who grew up in a middle-class home in Bengaluru, there was a sense of openness to what I didn't see and thoughtfulness to what I had seen that was brought to the front of mind.
This film left me entertained and with a bevy of thoughts that had to be addressed.
A balance that, in my humble opinion is essential to creating a well-rounded experience for film-goers.
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