Review: For a murder mystery, ‘Bad Monkey’ sure knows how to have a good time

As a long-time fan of Carl Hiaasen’s quirky and humorous novels, I was eagerly anticipating “Bad Monkey,” and I must say, I wasn’t disappointed. The series captures the essence of South Florida’s sun-soaked landscapes, its eccentric characters, and the undercurrent of corruption that seems to be an integral part of the region.

In the recently released miniseries “Bad Monkey” on Apple TV+, which is adapted from Carl Hiaasen’s book of the same name, there’s a monkey character. However, contrary to its title, this monkey doesn’t exhibit any mischievous or harmful behavior beyond giving an affectionate nip to an ear and showing no interest in performing tricks. It might simply be incapable or could choose not to engage in such activities.

To put it another way, Driggs, this particular monkey, is quite charming indeed. However, one might argue that he’s not as endearing in written form. Nevertheless, the title “Bad Monkey” carries more impact than “Adorable Monkey,” and it aligns better with a narrative revolving around fraud, murder, and the tropical heat.

In the distinctive Florida settings penned by Carl Hiaasen, this story ventures to the Bahamas alongside its usual haunts, preserving the author’s cheerful demeanor while subtly altering and expanding upon the primary narrative. The tale incorporates new characters and injects a touch of magical realism to lighten some of its multiple interwoven storylines. Created by Bill Lawrence, who co-created “Ted Lasso” and was behind “Scrubs,” this production can be likened to combining three or four episodes from an episodic TV series into one, offering a delightful blend – more akin to fried shrimp and beer, rather than a traditional meat-and-potatoes production.

As someone who has spent a considerable amount of time immersed in the world of television and film, I find myself intrigued by the description of this series. The combination of a comedy with a folksy, tall-tale narration, reminiscent of old-time radio shows, seems like an interesting blend that could potentially appeal to a wide audience. The character of Andrew Yancy, played by Vince Vaughn, appears to be an intriguing protagonist with a unique backstory, which adds depth and complexity to the narrative.

Despite instances of vehicular assault, infidelity, and attempts to impede the sale of a large, peculiar yellow house near him, Yancy largely embodies goodness, maintaining integrity in crucial aspects of his life while persistently persevering in ways he cannot avoid – a character reminiscent of a hero who maintains composure in all situations. The presence of Vaughn, whose company is surprisingly calming, further highlights this. Yancy appreciates the natural beauty around him, particularly his ocean view and the wildlife visiting his property. He even takes notice to ensure streetlights are red so newly hatched turtles don’t mistake them for the moon and venture away from the sea instead of towards it. However, he expresses strong disdain for that large yellow house.

In the sun-kissed Bahamian island of Andros, I, Neville Stafford – a humble fisherman and proud caretaker of my namesake monkey – find myself entangled in a predicament that mirrors the turbulent waters I navigate daily. The tranquil shack passed down from my father, a sanctuary I hold dear, is under siege by the encroaching development of a resort.

A severed human arm, reeled in by a fishing tourist, comes into Yancy’s keeping when the local sheriff tasks him with transporting it to the Miami police in hopes that it will relieve him of that headache. This brings him into contact with medical examiner Rosa Campesino (Natalie Martinez, sparky, spunky), who, you know and I know, will end up in some sort of relationship with our hero. (They bond over mango popsicles.)

In a turn of events, Yancy starts suspecting that an apparent accident involving a shark or a propeller might instead be a murder case, following his encounter with Eve Stripling, the widow of the man whose severed arm was found. With no formal authority, he decides to probe into the matter, dragging Rosa along in the process, which causes worry and frustration for his friend and former partner Rogelio Burton, who Yancy often urges to open up more emotionally.

Yancy’s journey will take various unexpected paths, ultimately leading him to Andros. There, Eve is found alongside Christopher Grunion, the resort developer (portrayed by Rob Delaney). Additionally, Neville, spurred on by friends, seeks aid from a woman known as the Dragon Queen (played by Jodie Turner-Smith), who practices Obeah, to maintain his home through some enigmatic and commanding magic.

In comparison to the overall tone of the show, the Bahama scenes, particularly the enlarged tale of the Dragon Queen, stand out. They lean more towards straight-up drama, fueled and defined by Turner-Smith’s compelling performance. Interestingly, it’s the only narrative thread in the series that could be described as emotional; the rest are engaging, humorous, thrilling, or entertaining. As we approach a resolution, the wicked become more malevolent, the tension escalates due to desperation, and a hurricane is imminent. However, this show doesn’t typically end with evil going unpunished or inflicting senseless tragedy on the good. Instead, it advocates for joy.

Notable performances in the extensive and captivating ensemble feature Zach Braff portraying a Medicare fraudster unlike any other, Scott Glenn as Jim, Yancy’s spiritually minded father, Bob Clendenin bringing humor as a chatty, demanding pilot, and Gonzalo Menendez who deserves boos for his corrupt cop character. L. Scott Caldwell takes on the role of the Dragon Queen’s grandmother, Charlotte Lawrence plays Eve’s stepdaughter, a Christian hipster, Nina Grollman is Madeline, a young woman under Yancy’s protective gaze following her boyfriend’s murder, and Alex Moffat portrays the developer behind the big yellow house, disregarding the fate of baby turtles. Each actor makes the most of their on-screen moments.

In the smaller roles, numerous as they were, Lawrence seemed intent on providing ample significance, ensuring no performer was sidelined with insignificant parts.

What sets “Bad Monkey” apart is its lack of uniqueness, in a charmingly unconventional way. With a multitude of characters and intertwining plots, some of which may seem superfluous, it manages to deliver an engaging storyline in a vibrant, traditional manner. Unlike many modern streaming mysteries that prioritize style, depth, sociopolitical significance, and innovative form, “Bad Monkey” stands out for its straightforward conversations, where discussions might simply revolve around the series itself.

“Seen that show ‘Bad Monkey’?”

“Yeah, it’s good.”

“Cool.”

“Cool.”

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2024-08-14 21:31