Joe Swanberg’s Twisted Horror ‘Monkey’s Magic Merry Go Round’ Set to Shock Fans

Monkey’s Magic Merry Go Round, the latest entry into the growing roster of dark and daring horror films, is heading to the American Film Market (AFM) thanks to Great Escape. Produced by renowned filmmaker Joe Swanberg and Yale Productions, this twisted sci-fi horror marks the feature debut of Aidan Leary and promises to deliver a mind-bending ride for audiences.

In what can only be described as an unsettling combination of Late Night with the Devil and Blue’s Clues, the film revolves around James Jensen, the host of a children’s show called Monkey’s Magic Merry Go Round. However, beneath the playful songs and cheerful puppets, James begins to experience horrifying flashbacks to his repressed childhood memories. As the façade of his seemingly innocent TV show crumbles, James must confront his trauma while questioning whether his puppet co-stars are hiding far more sinister secrets. What’s more, there’s an enigmatic figure known as “The Freak” lurking in the shadows, and the mysterious Post Lady may hold the key to unlocking the truth.

The film stars Michael Gilio (Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves), who takes on the weighty role of Jensen. His performance is lauded by producers Jordan Yale Levine and Jordan Beckerman of Yale Productions, who note, “So much of the film rests on his shoulders, as he’s essentially the only flesh-and-blood performer on screen.” The puppets, on the other hand, have also garnered significant praise for their chillingly lifelike appearances and performances, contributing to the eerie atmosphere.

Co-written by Leary and C.R. Thompson, who also handled the editing, Monkey’s Magic Merry Go Round stands out not only for its striking visuals and intense psychological elements but also for its bold approach to existential horror. The film will premiere at the Leeds International Film Festival in the UK before making its way to AFM, where it will be shopped to international buyers.

Joe Swanberg, a filmmaker best known for indie hits such as Drinking Buddies and Happy Christmas, as well as his collaboration with Dave Franco on The Rental, continues to push the boundaries of the horror genre with this production. Monkey’s Magic Merry Go Round is the first in a series of genre films under Swanberg’s Terror Town slate, which includes upcoming titles like Kenneled by Jay Burleson and a feature from Jae Matthews, co-writer of the Sundance 2023 pic My Animal.

This twisted children’s show concept is expected to captivate horror fans and cinephiles with its psychological depth, blending nostalgia with existential dread. As Great Escape’s Nicholas Donnermeyer aptly puts it, “This film is a trip. I can’t wait to see this with an audience.”