The short film “We Got A Monkey’s Paw,” directed by Zackary Ogle and Aaron Pagniano, has garnered significant acclaim on its journey through various film festivals. This indie gem made its debut on September 18, 2020, exclusively on the Alter platform and is also available for viewing on YouTube. The timeless tale of the monkey’s paw has captivated audiences across generations.
Originating as a supernatural short story, it revolves around a family who unexpectedly receives a mummified monkey paw, with unforeseen and chilling consequences. This modern cinematic adaptation brings a fresh perspective to a classic tale, captivating and engaging audiences with its unique storytelling and visual artistry. As an exploration of the human psyche and the consequences of tampering with fate, “We Got A Monkey’s Paw” offers a thought-provoking and immersive viewing experience that resonates long after the credits roll.
This peculiar artifact grants the owner three wishes. However, as with any powerful force, there are dire consequences attached to each wish. The concept of the monkey’s paw has sparked numerous adaptations, including movies and additional tales that delve into its cursed nature.
We Got A Monkey’s Paw Short Film Plot
Author W.W. Jacobs penned the original story in 1902 as part of a collection of stories called The Lady of the Barge.
In detail, the original story was a somber and creepy affair. It was filled with the sad tale of a man who simply wished for enough money to pay off his mortgage. Instead, the monkey’s paw punished him for tampering with fate. His one and only son is killed in a workplace accident and the sum he received as payment was exactly what he needed to pay off his home. At the bequest of his wife, the man wishes his son were still alive. But when he hears someone knocking in the middle of the night, he changes his mind and makes one last wish. The knocking stops.
Watch the Monkey Paw Movie Trailer
- The Alter Channel: More info about the Alter channel
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- Best Indie Movies About Life: Older
Horror-Comedy Short Film 2018 – Watch it on the Alter Channel
Billed as a horror-comedy the story follows Zack and Jakki who have filled their house with all types of cursed and haunted horror memorabilia. They’ve got demon boxes and dead-y bears, ghost brides, and of course, a monkey paw. While Jakki is busy studying, Zack tries to interest her in something a little more fun. She’s not interested, but of course, true to the tradition of the monkey’s paw, while holding it he wishes that Jakki would join him in trying it out.
The production is well-executed, fun, and modern. It’s a tight script for such a fast-paced story, but the narrative flows well. Performances are as charismatic as the storyline itself. For a tale that’s been told countless times over, it certainly isn’t lacking in enthusiasm or energy.
Similar to watching two people fend off disasters in “Jumanji”, the pair are transported, attacked, frazzled, and turned into zombies while trying to outrun the wishes they make. We Got A Monkey Paw movie runs for 8 minutes so there’s no point ruining the ending and telling you if the effervescent duo manages to make it back to normality. You’ll just have to watch it for yourself from September 18th.
I give “We Got A Monkey’s Paw”
3.5 Don’t mess with monkey’s paws out of 5
