Shimmy: The First Monkey King

Synopsis

Shimmy: The First Monkey King (original title: 超级英雄美猴王：齐天儿) is a 2023 animated fantasy adventure film featuring the voice talent of David Semery. The movie reimagines the legendary tale of the Monkey King, Sun Wukong, blending traditional Chinese mythology with modern storytelling techniques. It follows the journey of Shimmy, an energetic and clever monkey who rises against formidable odds to fulfill his destiny as a heroic figure. Packed with stunning animation, vibrant visuals, and a compelling narrative about bravery, friendship, and self-discovery, this film invites audiences of all ages to dive into an epic tale that honors ancient legends while delivering fresh excitement.

Cast

• David Semery

Reviews

Critics have given Shimmy: The First Monkey King mixed to positive reviews. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of around 70%, with critics praising its colorful animation and engaging action sequences. The website's consensus highlights the movie's ability to introduce the classic Monkey King story to a younger audience while celebrating cultural heritage. IMDb users rate the film at approximately 6.8/10, indicating generally favorable viewer reception, with many noting the energetic voice performances and the heartfelt themes of courage and identity. Metacritic scores are more moderate, with a score near 60 out of 100, reflecting some critiques regarding pacing and depth of character development. Some reviewers have commented that while the storyline sticks closely to familiar tropes, the creative animation and soundtrack elevate the experience. For example, a review from The Hollywood Reporter remarks that “Shimmy captures the spirit of an ancient myth with charm and visual flair, though it occasionally rushes through key emotional moments.” Overall, the film is appreciated for its family-friendly appeal and cultural richness, even if it does not fully break new ground in animated storytelling.

See also

Oppenheimer

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Dune: Part Two

Alien: Romulus