Johannes Roberts' new creature feature, "Primate," has clawed its way into theaters, delivering a pulpy, gory spectacle that knows exactly what it wants to be: a thrilling B-movie experience. The film, directed by Roberts of "Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City" fame, wastes no time in setting up its simple premise: a group of teenagers find themselves terrorized by a rabies-infected chimpanzee named Ben while spending a weekend at a secluded beach house.
Instead of attempting a nuanced horror story, "Primate" embraces its B-movie roots, offering a "lean, mean, and chimpanzee-n" experience that clocks in at under 90 minutes. The film prioritizes thrills and gore over complex emotional stakes, quickly establishing the necessary context within the first 15 minutes before diving headfirst into "monkey business".
The titular primate, Ben, is brought to life by movement specialist Miguel Torres Umba, with the aid of prosthetics, puppetry, and CGI. Umba's performance lends the character a menacing presence, occasionally undercut by flickers of deceptive humanity. Ben is not just some wild beast; he is the adopted pet of Adam (Troy Kotsur), a deaf author who lives in a cliffside mansion in Hawaii with his daughters Lucy (Johnny Sequoyah) and Erin (Gia Hunter). Ben's presence is a connection to their late mother, a linguist who taught him sign language.
The film quickly brushes aside any plot contrivances to deliver a brutal and darkly humorous experience. As Ben's rabies takes hold after being bitten by a mongoose, he unleashes a reign of terror, dispatching victims in increasingly violent and elaborate ways. The practical effects and vivid gore contribute to the film's visceral impact, creating moments where the audience might forget they're not watching an actual ape.
Reviewers have noted the film's efficient pacing and focus on delivering exactly what it promises: crazed chimp carnage. "Primate" doesn't delve into the dangers of domesticating wild animals like "Jurassic Park" might. Instead, it provides a space for audiences to revel in the simple thrills of watching a menacing chimpanzee stalk and attack a group of (admittedly unintelligent) teenagers.
The film's score, composed by Adrian Johnston, is reminiscent of 1980s horror flicks, adding to the film's retro feel. While "Primate" may not break new ground, it uses familiar elements to create a genuinely exciting and imaginative experience. The film is a fun, twisty ride with uncertain footing throughout. Roberts wraps his audience around his finger and then points us in the direction of gruesome, darkly humorous devilry.
