Spanking the Monkey Movie Review 1994

"What'd ya do on your summer vacation?" Ray Aibelli (Davies) has an interesting answer in this dark comedy about family dysfunction, sexual politics, incest and masturbation, topics which guarantee it a special place on the video shelf. Returning from his freshman year at M.I.T., Ray learns he must give up a prestigious internship to care for his bedridden mother (Watson) while Dad goes on an extended "business" trip. Much sexual and emotional confusion follows. Mom, it seems, is rather attractive, controlling, and in need of hands-on assistance. Black comedy is understated and sensitive, focusing attention on the story and characters rather than the delicate subject matter, but you'll be aware of the delicate subject matter, nonetheless. Sharp directorial debut by Russell features fine performances by mostly unknown cast, elevating low-budget feel. See it with a relative.

Distribution

Image Entertainment, 20525 Nordhoff St., Ste 200, Chatsworth, CA 91311, Phone: (818)407-9100, Email: inquiries@image-entertainment.com, URL: http://www.image-entertainment.com

Available on VHS
Running time 99 minutes.

Cast and Crew

Genres

Black Comedy, Monster Moms, Coming of Age, Incest

Screenplay

David O. Russell

Cast

Jeremy Davies, Alberta Watson, Benjamin Hendrickson, Carla Gallo, Matthew Puckett

Cinematography

Mike Mayers

Director

David O. Russell

Producer

Dean Silvers, Stanley F. Buchtal, Fine Line Features

Awards

Ind. Spirit 1995: First Feature, First Screenplay; Sundance 1994: Aud. Award.