Megacast for new Stephen King film adaptation: “Lord of the Rings” & Marvel stars in “The Monkey”

Nearly a year has passed since we first reported that none other than horror great James Wan (“Saw,” “Conjuring”) was working on a film adaptation of Stephen King’s short story “The Ape.” However, the project has been at a standstill since then. However, that does not mean that the project is a thing of the past. Quite the opposite.

As has now emerged, they have successfully worked to find the perfect cast for the film adaptation – which is now available exclusively through was revealed: alongside shooting star Theo James, who is currently on everyone’s lips thanks to the Netflix hit series “The Gentlemen”, expand with Elijah Wood, Tatyana Maslany And Sarah Levy several big names make up the cast list of “The Ape.”

Of course, Wood will forever be remembered by all Middle-earth fans as Frodo from “The Lord of the Rings”, but since the end of the fantasy saga he has also had a lot of fun in the horror genre (including “Alexandre Aja’s Maniac” ) – and therefore fits like a glove when it comes to filming a horror fairytale by the horror pope par excellence.

Many people will probably initially associate Maslany with the critically acclaimed science fiction thriller series ‘Orphan Black’. She also appeared in the drama ‘Stronger’ alongside ‘Road House’ star Jake Gyllenhaal. Marvel fanboys and fangirls know her as She-Hulk.

Sarah Levy’s resume is a little clearer, but as Twyla Sands she was at least part of the regular cast of one of the most popular series of recent times: ‘Schitt’s Creek’.

The one known for “Sweet Tooth” also passes by Christian Convery, Rohan Campbell (“The Hardy Boys”) and Colin O’Brien to the ensemble “The Monkey”, How reveals. The latter already starred in a King adaptation at the age of 14 (“Mr. Harrigan’s Phone”) and was last seen as the young Charlie from the chocolate factory in “Wonka”.

“The Monkey”: This is “The Monkey” by Stephen King

Two twin brothers Hal and Bill find a toy monkey in a mysterious chest, but instead of joy it brings great disaster. Because every time he hits his bells together, a fatal accident happens near the two siblings.

Sooner or later, Hal and Bill finally realize that all the terrible events must have something to do with their monkey. So they decide to throw it away as quickly as possible. Years later, however, the monkey crosses their path again and history threatens to repeat itself…

Theo James will take on a dual role, playing the two brothers. The director is “Gretel & Hänsel” creator Oz Perkins, who will give us “Longlegs” first. The horror thriller, starring Nicolas Cage and “It Follows” star Maika Monroe, is currently set to hit German cinemas on August 29, 2024. James Wan serves as producer.