Dev Patel is making his feature directorial and screenwriting debut with the action thriller “Monkey Man,” which he initially pitched as a “revenge film about faith.” Inspired by the legend of Hanuman, a Hindu deity known for his strength, loyalty, and courage, the film follows a character named Kid, played by Patel, who seeks to avenge his mother’s death by infiltrating the elite class of a Mumbai-like city. Kid’s mission extends beyond his family as he becomes a symbol of freedom, seeking justice for the oppressed and displaced in the name of power, money, and religion. Patel saw parallels between Hindu mythology and modern superheroes like Superman, emphasizing the positive and negative aspects of faith.
The film, still awaiting clearance in India due to its political themes, speaks to issues of violence against women, the caste system, and police brutality, reflecting universal struggles beyond the Indian context portrayed in the movie. Patel aims to engage viewers with a mix of action and social commentary, using the genre he loves to address relevant societal issues like the caste system. Despite facing challenges such as injuries and a pandemic-driven shutdown during production, Patel remained resilient and committed to bringing “Monkey Man” to the screen. The film highlights how religion can be both a beautiful force for unity and a weapon for violence, prompting viewers to reflect on its duality and impact on society.
After a tumultuous production process, Patel’s film was dropped by Netflix, but was ultimately saved by Jordan Peele, who purchased it through his production partnership with Universal Pictures. Peele saw the potential in Patel as a filmmaker and recognized the passion and effort put into making “Monkey Man” a reality. The film, which received a standing ovation at its SXSW premiere, was a significant achievement for Patel as a first-time director and screenwriter. Inspired by a quote from Rabindranath Tagore shared by his father, Patel took a leap of faith in releasing his debut film to the world, imperfect but reflective of his journey and artistic vision.
Patel’s vision for “Monkey Man” goes beyond entertainment, aiming to spark conversations about societal issues and challenge viewers to think critically about the world around them. With themes of faith, justice, and freedom at its core, the film offers a unique perspective on the intersection of religion, power, and morality. By blending action with social commentary, Patel explores the complexities of religious iconography and the impact of belief systems on individuals and communities. “Monkey Man” represents a bold and ambitious debut for Patel, showcasing his talent as a filmmaker and storyteller with a powerful message for audiences worldwide.
