DEVELOPING: The next horror flick, Primate, is set to unleash a wave of chaos and gore when it hits theaters on January 9, 2026. The film, directed by Johannes Roberts, promises a wild ride featuring a rabid monkey wreaking havoc, a premise that has audiences buzzing with excitement.
In Primate, a college student named Lucy returns to her home in Hawaii after her mother’s death. She reunites with her younger sister, Erin, and their father, a workaholic primatologist Adam. The twist? Their pet chimpanzee, Ben, has contracted rabies and is on the loose. What follows is a bloody showdown reminiscent of classic creature features like *Cujo* and *Deep Blue Sea*.
The film opens with a shocking, violent death scene that sets the tone, before flashing back thirty-six hours to build tension. The audience is left in suspense as the characters engage in reckless behavior while Ben lurks ominously. This tension escalates when Adam discovers a mutilated mongoose in Ben’s enclosure and decides to lock him up, oblivious to the danger that awaits.
As the plot unfolds, viewers are treated to a mix of absurdity and horror. Ben’s violent escapades begin as he attacks Erin, forcing the group to barricade themselves in a pool. The filmmakers stretch the limits of believability, as Ben exhibits intelligence beyond a typical primate, stalking the mansion with a menacing presence akin to a horror icon.
Critics are already weighing in, with some praising the film’s ability to blend humor and horror seamlessly. It’s described as a return to classic January studio horror, with its over-the-top violence and darkly comedic undertones. Audience reactions have been enthusiastic, with attendees cheering for Ben’s rampage in theaters.
The film’s score by Adrian Johnston pays homage to John Carpenter, enhancing the chilling atmosphere. While the plot may lean heavily into ridiculousness, it’s this very absurdity that invites viewers to experience the thrill of the unexpected.
If you’re ready for a wild ride filled with blood and laughs, Primate looks like a must-see this January. As excitement builds, audiences are eager to see how this film will play out—a mix of horror, laughs, and primate chaos that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Prepare for a cinematic experience that embraces the pulpiness and absurdity of the genre. Grab your friends and get ready for a fun, adrenaline-pumping time at the movies when Primate opens nationwide!
