Monkey Shines 1988

In a shocking twist of fate, law student and athlete Allan Mann finds his life irrevocably altered when a truck accident leaves him quadriplegic, thrusting him into a world where he must adjust to life in an SNP-equipped wheelchair. Struggling to adapt to his new existence, Allan faces challenges not only from his well-meaning but overbearing mother but also from an indifferent nurse. The situation takes a turn for the better when his friend Geoffrey Fisher proposes an unconventional yet uplifting solution: introducing a Capuchin monkey as a service animal to assist Allan and brighten his spirits. Unbeknownst to Allan, Geoffrey has been experimenting with the monkey, administering a serum to enhance its intelligence.

Geoffrey recruits Melanie Parker, an expert in training helper monkeys, as they introduce Ella into Allan’s life. Initially, Ella is a remarkable asset, providing companionship and assistance, making Allan’s adjustment easier. As time goes on, Allan and Melanie grow closer, forming a strong bond alongside Ella.

However, as Allan’s frustrations mount and resentment toward those who have wronged him — including his ex-girlfriend who is now dating his inept original surgeon — begins to bubble to the surface, issues arise. Ella starts displaying aggressive behavior, seemingly reacting to Allan’s inner turmoil. Tortured by dreams of running freely, Allan begins to suspect a telepathic connection with Ella.

As Geoffrey watches Ella’s growth in intelligence, he opts to hide evidence of her capabilities from both Allan and Melanie. A turning point comes when Allan’s nurse’s pet bird becomes a source of irritation; in a moment of frustration, Allan wishes harm upon it. That night, Ella takes shocking action by killing the bird and depositing it in the nurse’s slipper, leading to her swift resignation.

As Allan navigates the reality of his paralysis, he receives a second opinion from a doctor suggesting his condition may not be permanently irreversible. Although this news brings a glimmer of hope, it simultaneously fuels Allan’s rage against his original surgeon, who is now romantically linked to his former girlfriend. Consumed by vengeful thoughts, Allan envisions punishing them for the perceived injustices.

In a horrifying twist, Ella takes drastic action, killing both the surgeon and his girlfriend by setting their cabin on fire using stolen matches. This horrifying reality sinks in for Allan when he sees the aftermath through a vision that later confirms his fears from his mother. He comes to the dreadful realization that Ella has been acting out his darkest impulses, and her aggressive traits seem to mirror his own turmoil.

Overwhelmed with fear, Allan demands that Geoffrey remove Ella from his life. After Ella’s departure, Allan feels a sense of relief, enjoying a weekend at Melanie’s house where they finally embrace their feelings and share an intimate night together. However, his complicated relationship with Ella looms over him like a dark cloud.

Returning home, Allan faces the challenge of reconciling with his mother, only to find his attempts thwarted by her dismissive attitude towards Melanie. The burden of Ella’s presence weighs heavily, leading Allan to a stark realization — Ella must be close. Unbeknownst to his mother, who relaxes in a bath, Ella lurks and delivers a fatal electrocution while holding a hairdryer.

Amidst the chaos, Allan’s attempts to warn his mother go unheard as he is forced to witness her tragic demise. Just then, Melanie’s urgent call breaks the silence, prompting Allan to leave a brief message before Ella disables the phone. Sensing danger, Melanie rushes to Allan, who is caught in a tangled web of violence and betrayal.

With Geoffrey bringing shocking revelations about Ella’s experimental origins, Allan’s ire grows as he grapples with the threat to his safety. Confronting Ella, Geoffrey attempts to neutralize her with sedatives, but she retaliates, injecting him with a lethal dose. His silence becomes permanent, leaving Allan consumed with despair and self-hatred as he contemplates Ella’s actions.

Ella then reveals her true nature — not just an extension of Allan’s desires, but a possessive and twisted partner. Following a moment of calm with the soothing background music revitalizing his spirit, Allan seizes the opportunity to confront Ella. In a shocking act, he embraces her and deals a fatal blow, leading to her lifeless body crumpling against his tape deck.

In the aftermath of these tumultuous events, Allan undergoes successful spinal surgery, opening the door to freedom. As he prepares to leave the hospital, a victorious and wheelchair-free Allan is greeted by Melanie, and the two share a heartfelt moment as they drive away together, ready to face a new beginning.