Dev Patel Steps Behind The Camera in New ‘Monkey Man’ Featurette

Dev Patel’s directorial debut, ‘Monkey Man’, which brought vibrant Bollywood-style action to theatres earlier this year, is now available for purchase on DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K Ultra HD. To mark the release, Collider has an exclusive behind-the-scenes featurette that delves into Patel’s transition from acting to directing. Co-stars reflect on his passion and meticulous approach, praising how he created a comfortable environment on set.

Sikandar Kher commends Patel’s dedication, captured in behind-the-scenes footage where Patel directs with hands-on precision, drawing on his acting experience to guide his cast. Ashwini Kalsekar notes his particular vision and meticulous adjustments to achieve his exact vision. Patel’s commitment extended to personal sacrifices for the film’s intensity, despite his self-described perfectionism.

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In ‘Monkey Man’, which Patel also co-wrote, he stars as Kid, a young man scarred by childhood trauma and determined to confront corrupt leaders who have oppressed him and the powerless. Inspired by films like ‘The Raid’ and ‘John Wick’, ‘Monkey Man’ blends brutal action with a nod to Indian culture and history.

With a screenplay by Paul Angunawela and John Collee, and starring Sharlto Copley, Pitobash, Vipin Sharma, and Sobhita Dhulipala, ‘Monkey Man’ was initially slated for Netflix until producer Jordan Peele backed its theatrical release through Monkeypaw Productions. The film has garnered positive reviews and strong buzz, with an 88% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes and significant box office success.

Patel’s directorial debut has been praised for its impressive action sequences and homage to Indian cinema, though it has also faced critiques for pacing and narrative coherence. Despite mixed reviews, ‘Monkey Man’ has proven a commercial success, earning $34.6 million globally since its release.

–Farheen Ali