Johannes Roberts’ Primate is a high-octane love letter to 80’s creature features that manages to be both visceral and genuinely witty. It’s a rare breed of horror that knows exactly when to lean into the gore and when to wink at the audience.
THE CHARM OF PRACTICAL EFFECTS
The standout star isn’t just the young cast or the Oscar winner – it’s the killer monkey “Ben”. In an era of digital polish, the decision to have Miguel Torres Umba play the titular character, along with 80s-style puppetry, is a masterstroke. There is a weight and a “realness” to the creature that makes the carnage feel far more impactful (and satisfyingly messy).
TENSION IN SILENCE
The film’s most clever narrative engine is the use of a deaf character in a horror movie. Forcing Oscar-winner Tory Kotsur’s character to survive a murderous predator in near-silence adds a layer of “white-knuckle” tension that standard slasher tropes often miss. It’s a smart, sensory approach to horror that keeps you holding your breath.
CINEMATIC NODS AND NEW TALENT
Roberts clearly knows his history. There’s a clear celebration of The Shining (just as confirmed in our interview) but more still. The pool scenes serve as a fantastic homage to Jaws, trading the open ocean for the claustrophobia of the water’s surface. This nostalgia is balanced perfectly by an exciting young cast who bring enough energy and charisma… To keep the stakes feeling fresh! Is it just me that sees such similarities between lead star Johnny Sequoyah and Brie Larson?
“A BLOODY, BRILLIANT BRITISH THROWBACK!”
Primate is a gory and expertly paced ride – with some sick humour! Most importantly, it’s a film we can be proud to call British. It’s a bold reminder that UK horror can still deliver top-tier cinema! Creature chaos with a lot of heart…
