The latest horror film based on a novel by the renowned author Stephen King has shattered box office records. King, a famous figure in the horror genre, has written over 60 books, 5 nonfiction works, around 200 short stories, screenplays, columns, and more since his debut novel “Carrie” in 1974. Many of his works have been successfully adapted into films, with hits like “Misery” in 1990 winning awards.
Among the most commercially successful adaptations is the 2017 film “It,” which grossed $704.2 million worldwide against its $40 million budget. Other King adaptations that have grossed over $100 million include “It: Chapter Two,” “The Green Mile,” “1408,” “The Dark Tower,” and “Pet Sematary,” collectively earning over $2.9 billion.
The box office success continues with Osgood Perkins’ adaptation of King’s “The Monkey,” which has earned over $38 million globally, making it the highest-grossing horror film of the year. Starring Theo James and a talented ensemble cast, the film tells the chilling story of twins haunted by a malevolent toy monkey.
Perkins previously directed the successful thriller “Longlegs,” and “The Monkey” solidifies his position as a respected horror director. The positive reception of the film bodes well for the horror genre in 2025, with a lineup of anticipated releases and original stories expected to follow suit.
Overall, 2025 promises a diverse array of horror offerings, from franchise returns to fresh takes on the genre. With the success of “The Monkey” and other films, it’s evident that horror fans have much to look forward to in the coming year. Perkins, in particular, is establishing himself as a director to watch, with his upcoming film “Keeper” generating anticipation and excitement in the industry.
The horror genre’s resurgence in 2025 reflects a growing interest in low-budget films that deliver compelling storytelling and thrills. As audiences continue to support quality horror cinema, the future looks bright for filmmakers like Perkins and the exciting projects they bring to the big screen.