Reviewed by Melissa Antoinette Garza
In 1902, W.W. Jacobs wrote one of the greatest and most well-known horror short stories of all time. The Monkey’s Paw is a tale about a man named Mr. White who despite a strong warning from his friend takes a magical Monkey’s Paw that grants the owner 3 wishes.
First, Mr. White wishes for money to pay off his mortgage. He obtains the exact amount when his son, Herbert dies tragically at work. Emotionally destroyed, Mrs. White demands that her husband wish Herbert back to life, which he does despite the worries of what may lay ahead. When the son returns home, he is of course not the same. Though the term “zombie” is never used in the tale nor is Herbert ever really seen by his parents after his resurrection, it is quite obvious that he is the walking undead. Mrs. White still wants to let her boy in as Mr. White searches for the paw to wish him away.
This short story has been adapted into film so many times and in so many ways. Some are absolutely brilliant while others fall flat and offer nothing new. My favorite is the fourth tale in the Tales From the Crypt (1972) anthology. Entitled Wish You Were Here, a few details change, yet the message is still clear. If one interferes with the universe’s plan or attempts to play God, the consequences will be disastrous.
Recently, Chiller Films distributed a new adaption that carried the same title as the original tale. The Monkey’s Paw (2013) changes enough aspects of the story to keep viewers, who are familiar with the tale, interested while also ensuring that younger viewers are introduced to the overall theme of Jacobs’ tale.
Jake (C.J. Thomason) obtains the magic paw and wishes for a car. He and his co-worker Cobb (Stephen Lang) go joy-riding. In a fatal crash, Cobb goes through the window and dies. Jake obviously feels guilty. He reacts before he thinks and wishes his friend alive. Of course, the wish is granted, but Cobb is much different than before. He demands Jake use his last wish to help him form a bond with his estranged young son. By this time, Jake has gotten rid of the paw, now understanding it’s evil power. He does attempt to retrieve it, but is unable to locate it.
Cobb goes on a murder spree as he is apparently without the soul he once had while living. When Cobb goes too far and kills someone close to Jake, Jake puts the affection for his friend aside and vows to do anything to stop him.
Though the movie doesn’t really bring anything spectacularly new to the table, it is a well-made adaptation. It’s difficult to make a short story into a full-length movie, and kudos to the creators for doing so.
There were some moments that lagged and others that were unnecessary yet the effort put forth by the cast was evident throughout. There was not a single bad actor within the bunch and each brought their A game in presenting a movie based on a tale over 100 years old.
Though the ending was not the same as the story it was predictable. Still, I’m not sure if it could have ended in a different fashion and packed as much of a punch.
Overall, this is certainly worth the watch for any horror or suspense fan. There isn’t any nudity nor much gore, but there is certainly substance to be found.
Scared Stiff Rating: 7/10
