‘Primate’ Review: Intense Showdown with Rabid Chimp Sets Tropical Paradise in Upstate New York on Edge
Abhira 
Johannes Roberts brings a fresh twist to the slasher genre with ‘Primate,’ a nerve-shredding creature feature set against the backdrop of an isolated tropical retreat. The film follows a group of college friends, played by Johnny Sequoyah and Troy Kotsur, who find themselves fighting for survival when a rabid pet chimpanzee unleashes chaos during what was meant to be a peaceful vacation.
Set in a lush, secluded tropical location in Upstate New York, ‘Primate’ expertly balances moments of intense suspense with an undercurrent of silliness that keeps the film engaging and entertaining. The use of practical effects, combined with a convincing man-in-a-monkey-suit performance, adds a nostalgic homage to classic creature features while elevating the horror elements.
Johnny Sequoyah delivers a compelling performance as one of the students trapped in this terrifying situation, bringing emotional depth and resilience to her character. Troy Kotsur’s role adds both heart and grittiness, enhancing the group dynamics as tensions escalate.
The tropical setting contrasts beautifully with the grim and bloody events on screen, making the environment as much a character in the story as the people struggling to survive. Director Johannes Roberts masterfully builds suspense through tight pacing and clever cinematography, which heighten the audience’s sense of dread.
While the premise of fighting off a rabid pet chimp may sound far-fetched, the film embraces its campy elements with confidence, making it all the more enjoyable. The mix of horror and subtle humor allows viewers to experience the thrills without losing sight of entertainment.
Key highlights of ‘Primate’ include:
- Unique setting: A tropical paradise located in an unexpected Upstate New York locale
- Strong performances by Johnny Sequoyah and Troy Kotsur
- Engaging balance of suspense and humor
- Impressive practical effects and creature suit design
- Masterful direction and cinematography that build tension
Overall, ‘Primate’ stands out in the slasher genre by combining classic horror tropes with a unique story centered on human-animal conflict, making it a must-watch for fans of creature features and suspenseful thrillers alike.
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