Monkey Trouble

Monkey Trouble is an engaging family comedy that was released in the year 1994, featuring popular stars of that era such as Thora Birch, Harvey Keitel and a naughty little capuchin monkey named Finster.

Directed by Franco Amurri, Monkey Trouble presents a heartwarming narrative that revolves around the nine-year-old lead character, Eva Gregory. Portrayed by the gifted actress Thora Birch, Eva Gregory is a bubbly and spirited young girl who desires nothing more than to have a pet of her own. However, her dreams seem to be continuously thwarted by her overly strict and single mom (played by Mimi Rogers), who imposes her pet dander allergy as a reason for Eva's pet-free existence.

Life takes an interesting turn for the otherwise ordinary girl when she stumbles upon a mischievous, yet adorable trained capuchin monkey who is on the run from his old master. Using her quick wits and her instinctive love for tiny creatures, Eva manages to catch the monkey. She names the monkey, Fingers (later changed to Dodger) owing to his impressive thieving abilities. With Dodger in her life, Eva’s rather monotonous existence suddenly becomes much more lively and interesting.

However, Dodger isn’t just any ordinary monkey, but one that has been expertly trained in pickpocketing and thievery by his previous owner. Harvey Keitel plays the villainous character of Azro, Dodger's old master, who is a notorious gypsy thief with a cruel nature. Azro's one aim is to find Dodger and bring him back for his malicious deeds. This is where the tour de force of Monkey Trouble commences, as Eva has to protect Dodger from the cunning grasp of Azro while maintaining him as a secret at her home.

Unbeknownst to her mother and younger brother, Eva takes on the task of hiding Dodger at home and the school. The endearing relationship developed between Dodger, Eva, and her younger brother Jack is filled with delightful humor and insightful instances that brilliantly unfold the essence of childhood innocence and adventure.

While on the surface, Monkey Trouble might seem like a lighthearted comedy-drama, it delicately integrates several deeper themes into its narrative. For instance, it opens up conversations about the challenges and rewards of pet ownership, conflict between child and parental will, and the value of honesty and responsibility. All of these messages are neatly wrapped in gentle humor and adventure that doesn't take itself too seriously.

The performance of Thora Birch as Eva is exceptionally praise-worthy. She wonderfully brings out the innocence, determination, and wit of her character, immediately establishing a deep connection with the audience. Then there's Harvey Keitel, who convincingly portrays the ominous Gypsy, evoking fear and anger in equal measures.

We shouldn't forget the real star of the show - the capuchin monkey, Finster, who takes on the role of Dodger. Dodger's character encapsulates the audience with its naughty antics, acrobatic skills and his evident emotional connection with his human co-actors. His intelligent portrayal adds significant charm and hilarity to the entire film.

Monkey Trouble, in its duration of 96 minutes, brings forth a heartening story that masterfully blends elements of adventure, comedy, and emotion. It certainly transcends the boundaries of a typical children's movie, offering entertainment and important life lessons for all age-groups. It's a movie that compels you to laugh, fret, feel and think, all packed into its energetic, funny, and intriguing narrative. A movie that would be impossible to forget, Monkey Trouble of 1994 is an absolute must-watch.