Spanking the Monkey

Synopsis

Spanking the Monkey is a dark comedy-drama film that follows a young man named Raymond Aibelli who is forced to cancel his summer internship due to his mother's accident. In the absence of his father, Raymond becomes the primary caregiver for his mother, leading to a strained and uncomfortable relationship. As the summer progresses, the boundaries between mother and son blur, leading to a disturbing and complex exploration of identity, desire, and power dynamics. The film delves into themes of family dysfunction, mental health, and the complexities of human relationships. With nuanced performances and a provocative storyline, Spanking the Monkey challenges societal taboos and offers a raw and unflinching look at the intricacies of familial bonds.

Cast

• 

  Jeremy Davies

  Ray Aibelli

• 

  Alberta Watson

  Susan Aibelli

• 

  Benjamin Hendrickson

  Tom Aibelli

• 

  Carla Gallo

  Toni Peck

• Matthew Puckett

  Nicky

• Judette Jones

  Aunt Helen

Reviews

Spanking the Monkey has received a mix of critical acclaim and controversy since its release in 1994. Rotten Tomatoes awarded the film an impressive 92% rating, praising its bold storytelling and authentic performances. The site's consensus reads, 'Spanking the Monkey is a dark exploration of family dynamics that captivates with its unapologetic approach.' IMDb users have rated the film 6.3/10, with many viewers lauding the film's emotional depth and thought-provoking narrative. Metacritic gave the movie a score of 66/100, highlighting its daring themes and Jeremy Davies' standout performance. However, some critics criticized the film's subject matter as too taboo and unsettling for mainstream audiences. Overall, Spanking the Monkey is a polarizing film that leaves a lasting impact on those willing to engage with its challenging content.