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Monkeybone

Name: Monkeybone
Director: Henry Selick
Released: 2001
Duration: 93 min

Representation Score

3.3/10

Limited

2001

PG-13

Director

Henry Selick

Runtime

93 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Monkeybone is a visually stunning fantasy that emphasizes surreal visuals and subconscious themes over social or multi-layered issues. The narrative leans on conventional formulas rather than intentional efforts to challenge societal norms. The film primarily functions as a genre-driven adventure. It lacks the depth needed to offer meaningful or nuanced portrayals of underrepresented groups, focusing instead on the line between dreams and reality.

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Category Breakdown

Does Monkeybone have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include LGBTQ+ identities or relationships that go beyond the assumption that everyone is straight. The romantic storyline focuses on the protagonist and a female love interest.

How does Monkeybone portray gender?

Limited

Female characters such as Josephine mainly serve as emotional support for the protagonist. The story follows a conventional path without challenging traditional gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Monkeybone?

Limited

The main cast lacks diverse racial or ethnic backgrounds. While the dream world features surreal beings, they act more as visual elements rather than deep metaphors.

How does Monkeybone represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story exists in a surreal space without engaging with religious or cultural structures. It neither reinforces nor deconstructs traditional Western cultural norms.

Does Monkeybone include disability representation?

Limited

A medical coma is used as a plot device to create a fantasy setting. The film does not delve into the experiences of those with disabilities or neurodivergence.

Present on Screen

The film showcases a sophisticated use of visual metaphor and unconventional narrative structures through its surrealist animation.

Limited or Absent

The story lacks meaningful representation of diverse racial, ethnic, or LGBTQ+ identities.
Women's roles and the depiction of disability are used as plot devices rather than nuanced explorations of identity.

Official Synopsis

After a car crash sends repressed cartoonist Stu into a coma, he and the mischievous Monkeybone, his hilarious alter-ego, wake up in a wacked-out waystation for lost souls. When Monkeybone takes over Stu's body and escapes to wreak havoc on the real world, Stu has to find a way to stop him before his sister pulls the plug on reality forever!

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