What's Happening?
The film 'Primate,' directed by Johannes Roberts, is set to release on January 9, 2026, under the Paramount banner. The movie, which is a horror thriller, revolves around a chimpanzee named Ben who becomes a killer after contracting rabies. The plot follows college student Lucy, played by Johnny Sequoyah, who returns home to Hawaii with her friend Hannah, portrayed by Jessica Alexander. They reunite with Lucy's father, Adam, played by Troy Kotsur, who is grieving the loss of his wife. The film takes a turn when the family pet chimpanzee, Ben, becomes rabid and starts attacking the group of teenagers. The movie is noted for its slasher elements, with Ben meticulously stalking and attacking the teens. The film is produced by Walter Hamada, John Hodges,
and Bradley Pilz, and features a cast that includes Victoria Wyant, Gia Hunter, and Benjamin Cheng.
Why It's Important?
The release of 'Primate' marks an important moment for Paramount as it is the first film released under the full control of Skydance, a major player in Hollywood. The film's unique premise of a killer chimpanzee adds a novel twist to the horror genre, which could attract audiences looking for fresh takes on classic horror tropes. The involvement of Oscar-winning actor Troy Kotsur adds a layer of prestige to the film, potentially drawing in viewers interested in his performance. Additionally, the film's practical effects, as opposed to CGI, may appeal to horror enthusiasts who appreciate traditional filmmaking techniques. The movie's success or failure could influence future projects and the direction of horror films produced by Paramount and Skydance.
What's Next?
Following its release, 'Primate' will likely be evaluated based on its box office performance and critical reception. If successful, it could pave the way for more horror films with unconventional plots from Paramount and Skydance. The film's reception might also impact the careers of its cast and crew, particularly director Johannes Roberts, who is known for his work in the horror genre. The film's unique premise could inspire similar projects, potentially leading to a trend of animal-centric horror films. Additionally, the film's performance could influence Paramount's future production decisions, especially regarding the balance between practical effects and CGI in horror films.
Beyond the Headlines
The film 'Primate' touches on deeper themes such as the human-animal connection and the consequences of domestication, as seen through the character of Adam, who worked to connect humans and chimpanzees. The film also explores the impact of grief and loss on a family, adding emotional depth to the horror narrative. The choice to use a chimpanzee as the antagonist raises ethical questions about the portrayal of animals in media and the potential for reinforcing negative stereotypes about certain species. The film's setting in Hawaii, albeit filmed in the UK, may also spark discussions about the representation of locations in cinema and the authenticity of filming locations.
