Dev Patel’s feature directorial debut, Monkey Man, was originally slated to stream on Netflix. However, Jordan Peele saw potential in the film and decided to give it a chance on the big screen instead. The decision was a game-changer for Patel, who expressed his gratitude towards Peele for taking the movie from obscurity to the limelight.
The Journey from Netflix Pick-up to Theatrical Release
Sources revealed that Netflix initially bought Monkey Man for $30M but later found it too gritty for the Indian market, leading them to quietly shop it around. The movie faced another setback when co-financier Bron Studio went bankrupt, halting its release. Peele’s intervention rescued the film, allowing it to find a home in theaters.
Peele and Patel’s Mutual Appreciation
Patel praised Peele for his ability to break out of the TV comedy mold and venture into genre filmmaking. Likewise, Peele recognized Patel as more than just an arthouse actor, acknowledging his talent as a gritty action star and filmmaker. The synergy between the two led to the resurrection of Monkey Man as a genre film with a deeper social commentary.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including filming during the pandemic, Patel persevered in bringing Monkey Man to life. He described the experience as the toughest acting he had ever done, especially after breaking his foot and hand during production. The loss of his gaffer due to a heart attack added to the hurdles he had to overcome.
A Personal Journey for Dev Patel
Reflecting on his transformation from a timid kid in karate class to an action film director, Patel credited his mother for instilling discipline and focus through martial arts. He marveled at the journey that took him from wetting himself in his first karate class to standing proudly as the creator of his own action-packed film.
Universal acquired Monkey Man for under $10M, setting the stage for its theatrical release. The movie is projected to debut with a box office opening of around $12M this weekend, showcasing the impact of Peele’s involvement in bringing Patel’s vision to the big screen.
The journey of Monkey Man from a Netflix acquisition to a theatrical release is a testament to the collaborative effort between Dev Patel and Jordan Peele. Their shared vision and determination have transformed a seemingly overlooked project into a promising film that challenges stereotypes and breaks new ground in the world of cinema.
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