
The Monkey 2021
In this darkly whimsical animated drama from director Xosé Zapata, *The Monkey (2021)* weaves a surreal tale set in the turbulent year of 1588.
Director: Xosé Zapata
Cast





Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Monkey (2021)* about?
Set in 1588, the film follows a castaway from Spain's Armada who washes ashore in Ireland and is swiftly tried and sentenced to hang. The twist? The prisoner is a monkey, turning a routine wartime execution into a surreal examination of justice and absurdity under the laws of war.
Who directed *The Monkey*?
Xosé Zapata directed *The Monkey*, bringing his distinctive vision to this darkly humorous and thought-provoking animated short.
Who stars in *The Monkey*?
The film features Colm Meaney, Àlex Brendemühl, Eduardo Araujo de Barros, Dominic Abbott, Jim Trainor, and Monti Castiñeiras in key roles.
Is *The Monkey (2021)* worth watching?
*The Monkey* is a bold, unconventional short film that stands out for its unique premise and sharp thematic depth. While its runtime is brief, its message lingers, making it a compelling watch for fans of animated drama and historical satire.
How long is *The Monkey*?
The film has a runtime of 17 minutes.
About The Monkey (2021) — A Monkeys Trial in Ireland Uncovers War's Dark Comedy
In this darkly whimsical animated drama from director Xosé Zapata, *The Monkey (2021)* weaves a surreal tale set in the turbulent year of 1588. A castaway from Spain's doomed Armada—dispatched by Philip II in a bid to conquer England—washes ashore in Ireland, where he's swiftly captured and condemned to hang. But the twist? The prisoner isn't a man—it's a monkey. What follows is a biting satire of war, justice, and the absurdity of human conflict, framed through the lens of an unlikely protagonist trapped in a historical nightmare. With its stark visuals and thought-provoking narrative, the film explores the thin line between civilization and cruelty, all while leaving audiences questioning who's really on trial.
Crafted with haunting animation and sharp thematic depth, *The Monkey* defies easy categorization, blending historical drama with surreal allegory. The eerie atmosphere lingers long after the credits roll, challenging viewers to ponder the absurdity of power and prejudice. A bold, unconventional short film that lingers in the mind.