In a bold move that has fans buzzing, director Osgood Perkins promises to take his upcoming Stephen King adaptation to new heights of horror, stating that viewers can anticipate ”explosive gore” and a narrative that dives into the extremes of fear and suspense. Following the release of his latest film, Longlegs, which has garnered mixed reviews for its blend of supernatural elements and crime procedural storytelling, Perkins is set to push boundaries even further.With a focus on visceral storytelling and intense visuals,this adaptation aims to capture the essence of King’s chilling narratives while delivering a fresh cinematic experience. As anticipation builds, horror enthusiasts are eager to see how Perkins will transform King’s work into a thrilling spectacle that embraces the chaos and complexity of its source material.
Time.news Exclusive: An Interview with Osgood Perkins on his Upcoming Stephen King Adaptation, “Teh Monkey”
Editor, Time.news (E): Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Osgood Perkins, the director of the highly anticipated adaptation of Stephen King’s horror story “The Monkey.” Osgood, thanks for taking the time to share your insights with us.
Osgood Perkins (OP): Thank you for having me! It’s exciting to discuss this project.
E: Your previous film, “Longlegs,” received a variety of reviews.how did the feedback influence your approach to adapting “The Monkey”?
OP: “Longlegs” taught me a lot about balancing different elements in storytelling, especially with supernatural themes intertwined with crime. While there were mixed reactions, it solidified my belief in focusing on visceral storytelling. For “The Monkey,” I aim to create something that embraces the extremes of horror and suspense, delivering an intense experience that both challenges and thrills the audience.
E: You mentioned that viewers can expect “explosive gore” and a deep dive into fear. How do you balance such intense elements while still honoring King’s narrative style?
OP: Stephen King’s stories often dwell on the psychological — it’s about building suspense and then delivering that shock when it’s least expected. My goal is to capture that essence while layering in visual intensity.The gore should serve the narrative, heightening the emotional stakes instead of overshadowing them. We’re exploring the chaos and complexity that King is so adept at weaving into his tales.
E: As a genre, horror offers unique challenges and opportunities for filmmakers. What do you think sets “The Monkey” apart from other horror adaptations?
OP: “The Monkey” is unique in that it combines elements of family dynamics with its horror. The story follows twin brothers who discover a cursed toy, leading to unforeseen consequences. This blend allows us to explore character development more richly then in typical horror narratives. Plus, we’re aiming for a balance — it’s family-kind in some respects, yet it’s undeniably dark and filled with tension. Creating that dichotomy is part of what makes this adaptation exciting.
E: Horror enthusiasts are buzzing with anticipation. How do you plan to meet their expectations while also surprising them?
OP: The key is in subverting their expectations. Everyone loves familiar horror tropes,but I want to take them to unexpected places. “the Monkey” will have its share of classic horror moments, but we’ll twist them, creating a narrative that feels both fresh and terrifying. The element of surprise is crucial, and I believe viewers will appreciate that thrill.
E: Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring directors looking to venture into horror?
OP: Understand the importance of atmosphere and pacing. Horror isn’t just about jump scares; it’s about creating a sense of dread. Pay attention to sound design and visual storytelling, as these elements can significantly influence the mood. And,importantly,don’t shy away from exploring the emotional depths of your characters — that’s were true horror often lies.
E: Thank you, Osgood, for sharing your insights regarding “The Monkey” and the future of horror in film. We look forward to seeing how your vision brings Stephen King’s chilling tale to life!
OP: My pleasure! I can’t wait for audiences to experience it.