Brendan Fraser’s Funniest Comedy Is A Dark Raunchy Fantasy New Fans Can’t Find
Around the time Brendan Fraser was captivating audiences with his roles in “Bedazzled” and “The Mummy Returns,” he also starred in a lesser-known film called “Monkeybone.” Despite its potential, featuring a star-studded cast and a renowned director, the movie didn’t quite hit the mark.
In “Monkeybone,” Fraser plays Stuart “Stu” Miley, a cartoonist famous for his eccentric creation, Monkeybone. This crude yet humorous character represents Stu’s darker thoughts as he matures. The film takes a bizarre turn when Stu, on the brink of success with an animated series and merchandise, gets into a car accident and falls into a coma. He finds himself in a surreal place called Down Town, accompanied by Monkeybone. To wake up, Stu must obtain an Exit Pass, but he’s not the only one vying for a return to the living world.
“Monkeybone” blends live-action with stop-motion animation and is loosely based on the graphic novel “Dark Town” by Kaja Blackley. The cast includes notable names like Bridget Fonda, Chris Kattan, Giancarlo Esposito, Rose McGowan, Whoopi Goldberg, and John Turturro. Despite this impressive lineup, the film was a box-office failure upon its 2001 release, receiving harsh criticism for its visuals, humor, and characters. It holds a dismal 20% critic score and a 27% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Directed by Henry Selick, known for hits like “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “James and the Giant Peach,” and “Coraline,” “Monkeybone” was expected to be a success. However, Selick later revealed in an interview with Double Toasted that the film’s failure was partly due to a lack of publicity. He believed that with some advertising, the movie might have fared better.
Despite its poor reception, “Monkeybone” has its moments of charm and humor. Fans of dark, twisted comedies might find it reminiscent of “Beetlejuice.” The chaotic Down Town, the fight for survival, and the strange characters make for an intriguing watch. However, finding the movie can be a challenge. It’s not available on mainstream streaming platforms but can be rented on Amazon Prime Video.
Brendan Fraser’s role in “Monkeybone” showcases his versatility as an actor, blending comedy with dark fantasy elements. While the film didn’t achieve mainstream success, it has garnered a cult following over the years. New fans discovering Fraser’s work might find “Monkeybone” a hidden gem worth exploring.
Fraser’s career has seen a resurgence in recent years, with his performances in “The Whale” and other projects bringing him back into the spotlight. His ability to balance humor and depth in his roles continues to endear him to audiences. “Monkeybone” may not have been a commercial hit, but it remains a testament to Fraser’s unique talent and the risks he takes in his career.
For those looking to delve into Fraser’s filmography, “Monkeybone” offers a glimpse into a different side of his acting prowess. It’s a film that, despite its flaws, provides a darkly comedic experience that stands out in his body of work. As Fraser continues to captivate new audiences, “Monkeybone” serves as a reminder of his ability to bring humor and heart to even the most unconventional roles.
