The horror landscape of 2026 is kicking off with a brutal edge. Just weeks after another chilling release, a new terror is emerging, and its name is Ben. He’s not a human villain, but a chimpanzee, and something has fundamentally broken within him.
Primateunfolds on the beautiful, yet isolated, shores of Hawaii. Lucy, a college student returning home after a personal loss, seeks reconnection with her family – her younger sister, her deaf and celebrated author father, and Ben, the chimpanzee raised as part of their unique family. Ben was taught to communicate through sign language and technology, a testament to his mother’s scientific dedication.
A planned family reunion is disrupted by a book tour, leaving the sisters to their own devices. A seemingly harmless party atmosphere quickly descends into dread as Ben begins to exhibit disturbing behavior. A recent mongoose bite seems innocuous at first, but soon reveals a horrifying truth: Ben is transforming into something monstrous, driven by a single, violent purpose.
Director Johannes Roberts, known for the intense animal horror of the47 Meters Downfilms, delivers a different kind of terror withPrimate. He trades expansive settings for a claustrophobic, practically-driven experience, focusing on raw, visceral fear within a contained environment.
The film doesn’t ease you in. Within the first two minutes, a shocking act of violence unfolds, reportedly causing some viewers to leave the theater. This immediate brutality establishes a relentless sense of dread, leaving the audience bracing for the inevitable onslaught of primate fury.
Despite some archetypal characterizations, the young cast breathes life into their roles, making the unfolding chaos genuinely impactful. You find yourself invested in their fate, a crucial element often missing in B-movie horror.
The film’s setting amplifies the terror. The action is largely confined to a remote, luxurious house perched on a Hawaiian cliffside. Its modern amenities become tragically useless against the primal force of a rabid chimpanzee, highlighting the characters’ vulnerability and isolation.
A particularly harrowing sequence traps the characters in a pool, stalked by Ben, who is unable to enter the water. This simple setup generates a chilling sense of helplessness, amplified by the knowledge of Ben’s terrifying capabilities. It’s a masterclass in building tension with limited resources.
Primateembraces a refreshingly old-school approach, reminiscent of 80s horror classics like those directed by John Carpenter. This is reflected not only in the practical effects but also in the synth-driven score, creating a nostalgic yet terrifying atmosphere.
Ben himself is poised to become a modern horror icon. The filmmakers opted for a “guy in a suit” approach, prioritizing tactile realism over CGI. The result is a remarkably expressive and menacing creature, brought to life with impressive puppetry and a touch of old Hollywood magic.
The film doesn’t shy away from graphic violence. Face-ripping, blood-soaked carnage is delivered with gleeful abandon, eliciting visceral reactions from audiences. The filmmakers consistently choose practical effects over CGI, resulting in a grittier, more impactful visual experience.
Primateis a thrilling, unapologetically violent horror experience that honors the genre’s roots. It’s a film that revels in both the anticipation of terror and the explosive release of gore, creating a genuinely squirm-inducing and unforgettable cinematic ride. Ben the chimp is a force to be reckoned with, and this film marks his terrifying arrival.
Primatedelivers a cult classic in the making – a grisly, thrilling, and darkly humorous introduction to a new horror icon.
