Lecture Notes: The Monkey of Death

Introduction

• Old toys sometimes evoke the idea they should be destroyed.
• A particular toy monkey causes random, brutal, and hilarious deaths each time it hits its drum.
• The story revolves around Petey, a father trying to rid himself of the evil toy.

The Monkey's Origin

• Petey bought the toy for his twin sons, Hal and Bill.
• The toy causes chaos and death, and attempts to destroy it fail.
• Comparison to the real-life Annabelle doll, suggesting containment might be a better strategy.

Containment Strategy

• Suggests using church materials or religious items to contain the evil.
• Alternative: pass it on to another unsuspecting person.

Monkey's Impact on the Family

• After a family split, the twins encounter the monkey again.
• The monkey is linked to several tragic deaths.
• Attempted destruction of the monkey fails; it always returns.

Consequences of Using the Monkey

• Hal uses the monkey in a moment of anger leading to unintended consequences.
• The monkey’s victims are chosen randomly.
• Hal and his brother Bill's lives are permanently affected.

Strategies to Mitigate Risk

• Avoid potential accident scenarios, e.g., driving, falling, electric shock.
• Consider using the monkey's predictable kill sequence to shield others.

Family Dynamics and Further Tragedies

• Years later, Hal's son Petey is introduced.
• Hal’s brother Bill uses the monkey in a revenge plan.
• More deaths occur as the monkey's curse continues.

Attempt to Break the Cycle

• Hal and Petey try to contain the monkey.
• They encounter Ricky, another family member seeking the monkey.

Resolution

• Confrontation between Hal and Bill.
• Realization that trying to control fate can have unintended consequences.
• Hal and Petey decide to live life without fear of the monkey.
• Emphasizes the lesson of not trying to control the uncontrollable.

Conclusion

• The film is a commentary on fate, control, and acceptance.
• Directed by Ozgood Perkins, known for creating intense narratives.
• Viewer engagement through discussion of alternative strategies.