Dev Patel didn’t plan to direct the upcoming action thriller Monkey Man, which he also cowrote and starred in. The film faced setbacks including coronavirus-related delays and budget issues, but received a boost when Jordan Peele signed on as a producer, leading to Universal Pictures picking it up for distribution.
Monkey Man follows Kid (Patel), a young man seeking revenge against corrupt leaders responsible for his mother’s death. Patel drew inspiration from various action heroes and aimed to bring authenticity and cultural depth to the genre.
The film's roots lie in the story of Hanuman, a Hindu deity, and were also influenced by real-life events such as the 2012 Delhi gang rape and murder. Patel expressed his dedication to portraying themes of justice and goodness.
Despite facing challenges during production, including physical injuries, Patel's hard work paid off with a standing ovation at the film's premiere. Monkey Man is set to hit theaters on April 5, 2024, featuring a diverse cast of talented actors.
Jordan Peele praised the film for its ability to blend storytelling, depth, and action, emphasizing the importance of experiencing it in a theater setting. Patel humorously likened Peele's support to a scene from 'Pretty Woman,' highlighting the transformative impact of Peele's involvement in championing the film.
