THE MONKEY KING (2023) (film review by Mark R. Leeper and Evelyn C. Leeper)

[Philip De Parto]

The following review is reprinted with permission from

THE MT VOID

01/12/24 -- Vol. 42, No. 28, Whole Number 2310

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THE MONKEY KING (2023)

(film review by Mark R. Leeper and
Evelyn C. Leeper)

THE MONKEY KING is an animated film in the
style of Pixar rather than Disney.  That is, the dialogue is in the
sarcastic style of "Shrek" rather than the somewhat less snarky
style of "Frozen".  It is also a prequel to the classic "Monkey
King" legend, "Journey to the West", or perhaps more accurately, a
secret history.  The Monkey King is as well-known and recognized in
China as Mickey Mouse is here.  Because the film is a prequel, it
requires no prior knowledge of the Monkey King in viewers, though
the final scene assumes some recognition.

(For older audiences, there is definitely an homage to THE COURT
JESTER in the rhyme about which tree is poisoned.)  [-ecl]

Released theatrically 11 August 2023.  Rating: +2 (-4 to +4), or
7/10.

Film Credits: <https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8637498/reference>

What others are saying:
<https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_monkey_king_2023>