Osgood Perkins creates stories that remind us how life does not care about human relationships. His characters often deal with suffering, whether it comes from supernatural forces, deep sorrow, or unfortunate events. They struggle to find happiness while misfortune surrounds them.
His new film, The Monkey, fully embraces this idea. It presents a world where pain and loss feel unavoidable, yet the film also finds humor in these dark moments. The movie balances horror with comedy and delivers an emotional core that makes it deeply engaging.
It is Perkins’ most entertaining work so far. He shows how hope can survive in a cruel world and does it in a way that feels both thrilling and meaningful. The ending of The Monkey perfectly represents this theme.
A Sinister Toy Brings Disaster Wherever It Goes
Hal and Bill are identical twins who have faced hardship since childhood. Their father abandoned them, and their mother, struggling with alcohol, constantly complains about life’s unfairness.
With such an unstable home, the brothers only have each other for support. However, their bond is far from perfect. Bill often bullies Hal, forcing him to submit to his will.
One day, the twins go through their father’s belongings and find a mechanical toy monkey. This toy has a deadly power—it causes horrifying deaths when someone turns its key. The monkey never physically harms anyone, but it influences reality to create gruesome accidents. For example, when a chef in a teppanyaki restaurant uses a knife, the monkey ensures that the blade slashes a diner’s throat.
Hal, fed up with Bill’s abuse, decides to use the monkey against him. However, instead of killing Bill, the monkey takes their mother’s life. This tragic event breaks their bond forever.
Hal, terrified of the monkey’s power, tries to destroy it, but the toy always returns in perfect condition. Desperate to get rid of it, the twins seal it in a box and throw it down a well. After that, they go their separate ways, leaving their childhood behind.
Hal Becomes a Broken Man Haunted by His Past
Years pass, and Hal becomes a lonely man, avoiding close relationships out of fear that the monkey might return. He works at a small convenience store, living a dull and isolated life. His relationship with his son, Petey, is falling apart. Hal’s ex-wife is now with a man named Ted, who pretends to be a self-improvement expert. If Hal does not change, he will lose his parental rights, making this his last chance to be a good father.
Hal struggles with an internal conflict. He does not want to abandon his son, yet he feels trapped in the same cycle as his father. He saw how desperate his dad was to escape the monkey, and now he is going through the same ordeal. Petey does not understand Hal’s fears.
He only sees a distant and unreliable father. The monkey serves as a metaphor for life’s cruelty, and Perkins continues his exploration of how parents, despite their best intentions, can still harm their children.
Meanwhile, a rebellious teenager named Thrasher stumbles upon the monkey at a garage sale. Without knowing its dark history, he turns the key. The toy immediately causes the brutal death of Hal’s aunt, Ida. The cycle of horror begins again, pulling Hal and Petey into its grip.
A Twisted Reunion Between the Estranged Twins
Hal receives an unexpected call from his long-lost brother, Bill. Bill tells Hal that the monkey has returned and urges him to find it before it causes more destruction.
Hal quickly believes him but questions why Bill cannot retrieve the toy himself. Before answering, Bill abruptly hangs up. His behavior seems suspicious, hinting at a hidden agenda.
As Hal investigates, the truth becomes clear—Bill is responsible for the monkey’s return. He never forgave Hal for their mother’s death and spent years living with anger and pain. In his twisted logic, he convinces himself that the monkey represents justice. He retrieves it from the well and sets it loose, hoping it will seek out Hal and punish him.
Bill’s obsession with revenge transforms him. He believes he can control the monkey and use it for his own benefit. When Hal and Petey track him down, they discover Bill’s growing belief that the monkey never harms the person who turns the key. This dangerous idea leads him to suggest an awful plan—he wants Petey to turn the key, believing it will ensure his safety.
Still from The Monkey (Credit: Neon)
Hal refuses, trying to talk sense into his brother. He urges Bill to let go of the past, but Bill is too consumed by his own hatred. For the first time, Bill hesitates, touched by Hal’s sincere plea. Just as they seem to reconcile, the monkey strikes. Bill’s elaborate security trap, designed to kill intruders, backfires. A cannonball smashes into Bill’s head, instantly killing him in a shocking and darkly humorous moment.
A Grim Yet Hopeful Ending
With Bill gone, Hal decides to take responsibility for the monkey. He understands that its power cannot be controlled, so he vows to keep it locked away forever. Shaken but emotionally reconnected, Hal and Petey leave, witnessing the aftermath of Bill’s reckless actions.
The destruction is horrifying—burning baby carriages, impaled victims, and shattered lives. Bill, obsessed with using the monkey against Hal, unknowingly causes massive devastation. His selfishness destroyed innocent lives, highlighting how unchecked anger and revenge led to ruin.
As Hal and Petey drive away, they see a mysterious old woman in dark, tattered clothes riding a horse. This vision has haunted Hal throughout the film. It remains unclear whether she is real or a supernatural trick played by the monkey. The eerie moment leaves the audience unsettled, reinforcing the idea that life’s mysteries are often beyond human understanding.
Despite the horror they have witnessed, Hal and Petey share a small but significant moment of connection. Hal suggests visiting a public attraction, and to his surprise, Petey agrees. This simple decision symbolizes a step toward healing. As they drive off, chaos continues—a bus full of cheerleaders is hit by a truck, creating another gruesome disaster.
The film ends on this note, reinforcing its central message. The monkey represents life itself—cruel, random, and without explanation. Yet, even in the darkest times, there is still a reason to move forward.
For years, Hanlim Arts School has been a launchpad for K-Pop’s brightest talents, and 2025 is no exception. This year, several rising stars have officially graduated, marking a major milestone in their journey to stardom. From powerhouse groups like EVNNE, TWS, and BOYNEXTDOOR to emerging artists in ALL(H)OURS and SAY MY NAME, let’s take a look at the idols who tossed their caps this year!
1. EVNNE’s Park Ji Hoo
Born on July 14, 2006, Park Ji Hoo is now officially a high school graduate at 18!
EVNNE members cheering on Park Ji Hoo’s graduation day!
His fellow EVNNE members joined in the celebrations, making the moment even more special. With his growing popularity, fans can’t wait to see what’s next for him.
2. TWS’s Jihoo
TWS’s talented Jihoon, born on March 28, 2006, has successfully completed his time at Hanlim at the age of 18. With his charm and skills, he’s already making waves in the K-Pop world, and this milestone only adds to his promising career.
3. BOYNEXTDOOR’s Woonhak
BOYNEXTDOOR’s Woonhak after gaining recognition through the show has now graduated at 18.
Woonhak, born on November 29, 2006, has graduated at 18 years old. As BOYNEXTDOOR continues to gain recognition, his journey from high school to full-time idol life is just getting started!
4. tripleS’s Park Si On & Lynn
This year saw two members from tripleS—Park Si On and Lynn—proudly receive their diplomas. Both born in 2006, the duo has balanced school and idol life impressively, and fans are eager to see their next moves.
5. SAY MY NAME’s Soha
SAY MY NAME’s Soha got officially graduated at 18
Soha, born on July 26, 2006, has officially graduated at 18. With his smooth vocals and stage presence, SAY MY NAME fans are looking forward to his future projects as he takes on new challenges beyond high school.
6. NCHIVE’s N
Born on November 2, 2006, N has wrapped up his high school days at 18 years old. With a bright career ahead in NCHIVE, this graduation marks the start of an exciting chapter for him.
7. ALL(H)OURS’s ON:N
ON:N, born on December 8, 2006, has also earned his diploma this year. As a rising name in ALL(H)OURS, his talent and hard work continue to pay off, setting the stage for an even bigger future.
8. TRENDZ’s Yechan
The eldest among this year’s graduates, Yechan (born October 27, 2005), completed high school at 19. As TRENDZ gains more attention, Yechan’s graduation signifies his full commitment to his music career.
Graduation is a huge achievement for these young idols, who have managed to balance rigorous training, performances, and schoolwork. With their diplomas in hand, they’re now ready to take on the industry full-time. The future of K-Pop looks brighter than ever with these fresh graduates leading the way!
After the intense events of the previous episode, Fire Country slows things down with a heartfelt story about family and connection. This week, Eve (Jules Latimer) and Gabs (Stephanie Arcila) take the lead on a special event at the fire station.
They organize a family reunification day, where the children of Three Rock inmates visit their fathers at the station. The event allows the kids to spend time with their dads, take part in craft activities, and see the important work the men do as part of their rehabilitation.
While the event brings joy, it also has some difficulties. One inmate gets the chance to reconnect with his estranged son, and their emotional journey becomes a central part of the episode. This visit gives them a rare moment of understanding and healing.
A Day of Reflection for Audrey and Walter
Audrey (Levin Rambin) plans to stay away from the family event. She hopes to use her time to catch up on laundry. However, when her apartment’s washing machine stops working and the station’s machines are busy, Sharon (Diane Farr) sends her to Vince’s (Billy Burke) house to do her laundry. While there, she spends time with Vince’s father, Walter (Jeff Fahey).
Walter, who struggles with memory loss, mistakes Audrey for Vince’s late daughter, Riley. The moment is heartbreaking, especially when Vince overhears it. Audrey, however, does not correct Walter. Instead, she listens patiently, allowing him to share his thoughts and memories.
Walter appreciates her kindness and takes her through the Leone family’s history. He shows her old photographs and tells stories about the people in them.
Through this experience, Audrey learns more about Bode (Max Thieriot) and his family. When Sharon returns home, she finds Audrey and Walter laughing and playing poker like old friends.
Later, the whole family gathers at Smokey’s, where Audrey sings a song, bringing warmth to the night. It is a rare, happy moment for the Leone family—except for Bode, who faces his own struggles.
Tension and Growth at the Fire Station
At the station, the family event goes well for most of the Three Rock inmates. Cole (Tye White) enjoys spending time with his daughters and teenage son, Logan. However, Logan does not feel the same excitement.
He struggles with the reality of his father’s situation and acts out. He inflates a rescue boat inside the station’s storage room and even attempts to take one of the fire trucks for a ride.
Eve steps in and confronts Logan about his attitude. She reminds him that another child on the trip did not get the chance to see his father, and Logan is being unfair by ruining the day for everyone. She pushes him to open up about what is really bothering him.
Logan finally reveals that he has been anxious about telling his father that he is gay. Eve offers him support and encourages him to have a conversation. When Logan finally talks to Cole, his father responds with love and acceptance. Cole not only reassures his son but also gives him advice on confidence and flirting.
The moment is powerful, proving that despite his mistakes, Cole is a father who loves and supports his children.
The success of this event shows Eve’s growth as a leader. She has truly embraced her role as captain of Three Rock. Sharon notices her efforts and sees the potential for this event to become a regular program.
Bode and Jake’s Unexpected Mission
Meanwhile, Bode and Jake (Jordan Calloway) set out on what should be a simple work trip. They travel to Trinity National Forest to tag fire-risk trees that need to be cut down. As they work, Jake teases Bode about his relationship with Audrey, while Bode questions when Jake will start dating again. Jake is still not ready to move on from his past heartbreak.
The task seems easy at first, but their trip takes a dramatic turn when they spot an unattended campfire. They put it out quickly, but then they hear the sound of a rockslide in the distance. They rush to investigate and find a camper trapped under the rubble.
The man, Rafael, is a pediatrician from Argentina. He had been camping alone to process the recent loss of one of his young patients. Trapped under heavy rocks, Rafael cannot move. Bode and Jake work together to try and free him. As they move rocks, Rafael starts talking about life, loss, and the afterlife.
A Race Against Time Ends in Heartbreak
Just when it seems like they are making progress, a second rockslide injures Bode’s leg. He can no longer move quickly, so Jake makes the eight-mile journey back to get help. Bode stays with Rafael, keeping him company and trying to lift his spirits.
Rafael, however, knows that his injuries are too severe. He realizes that he is not going to survive. His final request is for Bode to sit with him and watch the stars. He wants to admire the beauty of the universe one last time. Bode grants his wish, staying by his side until Rafael takes his last breath.
Still from Fire Country (Credit: CBS)
By the time Jake returns with the rescue team, Rafael has already passed away. The loss weighs heavily on both firefighters. They carry Rafael’s body out of the forest and prepare to make the heartbreaking call to his fiancée. Jake takes on the painful responsibility of delivering Rafael’s final message.
At Smokey’s, Bode quietly drinks a beer, lost in thought. His parents watch from a distance, debating whether they should push him to talk about what happened. The experience brings back painful memories of his sister, Riley, and he is clearly struggling.
Unspoken Pain and Unfinished Healing
Bode is not the only one affected by Rafael’s death. Jake also carries a deep sadness. Earlier in the season, he lost his fiancée when he was unable to reach her in time during a rescue. Rafael’s situation reminds him of that loss, making it even harder for him to move forward.
While everyone focuses on Bode’s grief, Jake’s pain goes unnoticed. If Vince and Sharon truly see him as part of their family, they need to acknowledge what he is going through as well. Both men had a difficult day, and the emotional weight of their experiences will take time to process.
Fire Country continues to show the struggles, growth, and resilience of its characters. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how Bode and Jake deal with their grief and whether the Leone family can support them through it.
Fire Country Season 3 continues on Fridays at 9 PM on CBS. Viewers can also stream episodes the next day on Paramount+.
