Primate Review: Killer Chimp Film Delivers Gory Fun

The horror film Primate opens in theaters on Friday, January 9. Directed by Johannes Roberts, the movie follows a domesticated chimpanzee named Ben who turns homicidal due to rabies. Set in a Hawaiian home, the story focuses on a family trying to survive the night.

The film is described as an 'inarguably silly movie' that leans into its concept for a 'goofy gory good time.' It is noted to be far more brutal and graphic than its trailers indicate. The production utilized an impressively complex animatronic suit created by Millennium FX rather than CGI to bring the chimp to life.

Primate takes place in a beautiful cliffside Hawaiian home. The story centers on a domesticated chimp named Ben living alongside popular author Adam, played by Troy Kotsur, and his daughters, Lucy and Erin. Lucy is returning home after a long absence following her mother's death.

The film begins with a flash-forward showing killer chimp violence. The actual story setup follows, though some viewers may find it a bit drawn out. The narrative eventually settles into a single long night where the family and their friends attempt to fend off Ben.

While the film touches on the dangers of domesticating wild animals, it does so only as background. The plot also includes a brewing competition between Lucy and her friend Hannah over a crush, but the movie quickly moves past these elements to focus on the action.

Director Johannes Roberts made a specific choice to avoid standard CGI for the titular character. Instead, Ben was brought to life using an impressively complex animatronic suit created by Millennium FX.

Actor and movement specialist Miguel Torres Umba wore the costume to play Ben. The partnership between the effects studio and the actor resulted in a character that looks great. The end result allows the audience to buy into Ben as a full-fledged and increasingly angry character.

Adrian Johnston provided the film's score. He delivered a 1980s-style synth score that adds a cool and creepy vibe to the production.

Johannes Roberts, known for The Strangers: Prey at Night and 47 Meters Down, directs the film. He mixes straightforward, visceral thrills with genuine moments of tension. The movie delivers on its promise of being a 'goofy gory good time,' offering a satisfyingly over-the-top experience.

The film acknowledges the deafness of both the actor Troy Kotsur and his character, Adam. It uses effective cinematic methods, including moments of full silence to cut to Adam's perspective.

Roberts appears to be in on the joke, particularly when two 'horny, drunken douchebag bros' appear on screen. The movie skips over specifics regarding how the rabies reached Hawaii, simply stating that a mongoose bit Ben.