Disneynature’s Monkey Kingdom is wild, literally. This documentary, which opens in theaters April 17, was shot in the jungles of South Asia. It follows Maya the monkey and her adorable son, Kip. As a viewer watching these fascinating primates, you become immersed in their lush world and their intense struggle for survival. It’s nearly impossible to not feel a bond with these creatures and to recognize so many human traits from the complexities of social structures, to the joys of play, to the deep love of a mother. When observing a monkey – on screen or off – we are all struck by the deep down similarities they have to mankind. This is one of the reasons why we, as a fellow animal, are drawn to their stories and characterizations.
In honor of Monkey Kingdom and primates everywhere, here are 10 of the most iconic movie monkeys and apes. Which one is right for your family?
Most Musical Ape
King Louie in Jungle Book
Rated G
“I wanna be a man, Man-Cub! And stroll right into town. And be just like the other men; I'm tired of monkeying around!” King Louie, voiced by legendary singer Louis Prima, was a very special animal indeed, this royal orangutan could really belt out a tune. But in the Jungle Book, King Louie yearns for man’s power, he’s not content with just being an ape. His musical number is one of the most cherished moments for many from the film, albeit fleeting. This ape, and the epic story, is good for any age.
Most Intelligent Apes
Zira and Cornelius from Planet of the Apes (1968)
Rated G
In this 1968 blockbuster, the apes are the ones who are the dominant species, while we humans are enslaved and far from the rulers of the land. These highly functioning primates reside on a planet in the far off distant future. This film is best for older kids who enjoy a bit of camp and early sci-fi.
Most Violent Ape
General Thade in Planet of the Apes (2001)
Rated PG-13
This version of is a far cry from the 1968 version and contains far more violence, peril and has a stylized look (courtesy of Tim Burton). This darker take on the tale follows Captain Leo Davidson (Mark Wahlberg) as he partners with chimpanzee activist named Ari (Helena Bonham Carter) to fend off the gorilla army lead by the brutal General Thade. Take the PG-13 rating to heart since this is a pretty violent movie.
Most Iconic Ape
King Kong (1933)
Rated G
King Kong, when it originally came out in 1933, wasn’t just a movie, it was a phenomenon. While today’s kids may be unimpressed by the special affects and the simplicity of the filmmaking, the movie is an important part of film history. There are other versions of the film from 1976 and 2005 (a more mature take by Peter Jackson of the Lord of the Rings fame). The film is a bit violent, so I wouldn't show it to a child unless he or she was at least 9 or 10. As far as monkey and ape films, King Kong reigns supreme.
Scariest Monkeys
The Flying Monkeys in The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Rated G
While the monkeys in the Wizard of Oz may not be on screen as much as Dorothy, Gilda or the Wicked Witch of the West, they certainly make an impact. These winged creatures have filled children with fright for generations. Thankfully, they are only in the film for a few minutes. The flying monkeys also make an even scarier appearance in Sam Raimi’s Oz the Great and Powerful (2013) with vicious teeth and heartless eyes, while Finley (the bellhop uniform wearing flying monkey voiced by Zach Braff) adds cuteness and comic relief.
Most Mischievous Monkey
Abu in Aladdin (1992)
Rated G
Abu, he loves to steal (he even stole our hearts in this 1992 Disney classic). Aladdin’s best pal may be mischievous but he is fiercely loyal and has a big heart. This monkey is appropriate for all ages.
Most Martial Arts Skilled Monkey
Kung Fu Panda (2008)
Rated PG
Master Monkey, one of the furious five in the Kung Fu Panda franchise, is voiced by none-other than martial arts superstar Jackie Chan. This particular primate is a master of a kung fu discipline called Monkey Style. For kids learning martial arts – from karate to hopkido – this is the monkey for them.
Most Out of This World Chimps
Space Chimps (2008)
Rated G
In Space Chimps, a trio of chimp astronauts blast into outer space and are given the task to rid a far off planet of their evil leader. Of course, high jinks ensues. It’s a cute film that’s suitable for any age, but really is for the young (ages 4 to 8) set.
Most Menacing Monkey
Dexter in Night at the Museum franchise
Rated PG
Dexter is a small Capuchin Monkey who is on display in the Hall of African Mammals in the Night at the Museum movies. At night he comes to life to torture and to be a menace to night watchman Larry Daley (Ben Stiller). Even though this particular monkey is obnoxious, it’s hard not to be amused by him.
Most Seafaring Monkey
Pirates of the Caribbean franchise
Rating PG-13
Captain Barbossa’s pet monkey Jack isn’t just any old pirate’s monkey. He, along with the rest of the crew of the Black Pearl, is cursed. This capuchin was named after Jack Sparrow, apparently in a not-so-veiled insult by Captain Barbossa to his nemesis. All the Pirates of the Caribbean films are for older kids, tweens and teens and are generally too intense for little ones.
Sunny Chanel is a regular contributor to Fandango Family, Babble.com, Mom.me, Disney Imagicademy and Mommy Nearest as well as her own whimsical site Wonder and Company. When she isn't writing, watching movies or doing crafts, she is playing dress up with her eight-year-old daughter.
