Where to watch Monkey Beach in Australia
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About Monkey Beach
Five hundred miles north of Vancouver is Kitamaat, an Indian reservation in the homeland of the Haisla people. Growing up a tough, wild tomboy, swimming, fighting, and fishing in a remote village where the land slips into the green ocean on the edge of the world, Lisamarie has always been different. Visited by ghosts and shapeshifters, tormented by premonitions, she can't escape the sense that something terrible is waiting for her. She recounts her enchanted yet scarred life as she journeys in her speedboat up the frigid waters of the Douglas Channel. She is searching for her brother, dead by drowning, and in her own way running as fast as she can toward danger. Circling her brother's tragic death are the remarkable characters that make up her family: Lisamarie's parents, struggling to join their Haisla heritage with Western ways; Uncle Mick, a Native rights activist and devoted Elvis fan; and the headstrong Ma-ma-oo (Haisla for "grandmother"), a guardian of tradition.
- Year
- 2020
- Genres
- Mystery, Thriller
- Runtime
- 105mins
- Director
- Loretta Todd
What our critics think
Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.
Review Team
★★★★★4/5
Monkey Beach, directed by Loretta Todd, is a poignant exploration of identity, grief, and cultural heritage, set against the stunning backdrop of the Haisla Nation. The film follows Lisamarie, a spirited young woman who embarks on a quest to find her drowned brother while grappling with her past and the spirits that haunt her. The narrative is rich with Haisla mythology, and Todd's direction beautifully captures the emotional weight of Lisamarie's journey. The performances are heartfelt, with the lead actress delivering a powerful portrayal of resilience and vulnerability. The cinematography is striking, showcasing the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest while enhancing the film's mystical elements. However, the pacing may feel slow to some viewers, and the supernatural aspects might not resonate with everyone. Overall, Monkey Beach is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that provides a unique glimpse into Indigenous culture, making it a worthwhile watch for those seeking depth in storytelling.
Editor Team
★★★★★3/5
Monkey Beach is a film that tries to do a lot, and while it has its moments, it sometimes feels like it doesn't quite hit the mark. The story of Lisamarie searching for her brother is captivating, but the pacing drags at times, leaving the audience yearning for more momentum. The performances are commendable, particularly from the lead, who brings a raw authenticity to her role. However, the supernatural elements, while intriguing, can feel disjointed from the main narrative, leaving some viewers confused rather than enchanted. The film's visuals are beautiful, showcasing the lush landscapes of the Haisla homeland, yet I found myself wishing for a stronger connection between the characters and their cultural context. In the end, Monkey Beach offers a thoughtful exploration of grief and identity, but it may not satisfy everyone’s expectations for a cohesive story.
How viewers describe this
- haunting
- emotional
- culturally rich
- poignant
- visually stunning
- slow-paced
- authentic
- mystical
- thought-provoking
- disjointed
- heartfelt
- engaging
Streaming Charts
The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.
| Rank | Title | Highest Rank | Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | 05 | ||
| 02 | 14 | ||
| 03 | 24 | ||
| 04 | 30 | ||
| 05 | 31 | ||
| 06 | 32 | ||
| 07 | 37 | ||
| 08 | 39 | ||
| 09 | 40 | ||
| 10 | 41 |
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Got a question about Monkey Beach?
Is Monkey Beach worth watching?
Yes, Monkey Beach is worth watching for its unique blend of supernatural elements and cultural storytelling. The film offers a compelling narrative that explores themes of grief, identity, and the connection to nature, all while showcasing the rich traditions of the Haisla people. The performances are heartfelt, particularly that of the lead character Lisamarie, making it an engaging watch.
What is Monkey Beach really about?
Monkey Beach is about Lisamarie, a young Haisla woman, who navigates her troubled past while searching for her brother who drowned. The story intertwines her personal journey with elements of Haisla mythology, featuring encounters with ghosts and premonitions that highlight her struggles with identity and loss, set against the backdrop of her community.
Is Monkey Beach suitable for children?
Monkey Beach is not particularly suitable for children due to its mature themes, including grief, death, and supernatural elements. The film deals with complex emotional issues and contains scenes that may be unsettling for younger audiences. Parental discretion is advised.
Is there a sequel to Monkey Beach?
As of now, there is no sequel to Monkey Beach. The film, directed by Loretta Todd, is a standalone adaptation of Eden Robinson's novel of the same name, and it encompasses a complete narrative arc within its runtime.
What films are similar to Monkey Beach?
Films similar to Monkey Beach include 'Smoke Signals', which also explores Indigenous themes and identity, and 'The Body Remembers When the World Broke Open', focusing on personal trauma and cultural context. Other comparable films may include 'The Fast Runner' and 'Rhymes for Young Ghouls', which incorporate Indigenous perspectives and storytelling.
What happens at the end of Monkey Beach?
At the end of Monkey Beach, Lisamarie comes to terms with her brother's death and the traumas of her past. The film culminates in a powerful moment of acceptance and understanding, as she embraces her cultural heritage and the spirits that have guided her throughout her journey. This resolution highlights the importance of community and connection.
Is Monkey Beach scary?
Monkey Beach contains supernatural elements that may be unsettling for some viewers, but it is not a traditional horror film. The tension arises more from emotional and psychological themes rather than jump scares or overt horror. It explores fear in the context of loss and the unknown.
What is the critical reception of Monkey Beach?
Monkey Beach has received positive reviews for its authentic representation of Haisla culture and its emotional depth. Critics have praised the performances, especially of the lead actress, and the film's ability to weave together personal and cultural narratives. It has been noted for its visual storytelling and strong direction by Loretta Todd.