Primate

Johannes Roberts' 2026 offering, *Primate*, swings into theaters with a premise that’s as old as the jungle itself: pet turns predator. At a concise 89 minutes, this suspense-terror flick aims for a quick, visceral punch, but ultimately lands more like a glancing blow. The central hook – a college student, Lucy (Johnny Sequoyah), returning home only to find her beloved chimpanzee, Ben, succumb to rabies during a pool party – certainly promises a descent into primal fear.

Roberts, known for his horror sensibilities, crafts a narrative that initially builds tension effectively. The early scenes establishing Lucy’s bond with Ben, and the idyllic family setting, are crucial for the later unraveling. The ensemble cast, including Jessica Alexander and Oscar winner Troy Kotsur, delivers performances that, for the most part, ground this increasingly outlandish scenario. Kotsur, in particular, brings a quiet gravitas to his role that hints at deeper family dynamics at play, even if the script doesn’t fully explore them. Johnny Sequoyah embodies Lucy’s escalating terror with conviction, making her a relatable anchor in the chaos.

However, *Primate* struggles with its narrative structure. While the rapid onset of Ben’s rabies is necessary for the plot, the transition from family pet to rabid menace feels rushed, sacrificing some much-needed psychological dread for immediate shock value. The film leans heavily on jump scares and the inherent terror of an intelligent animal gone feral, which, while effective in spurts, becomes predictable. The artistic merit here lies in its commitment to practical effects for Ben’s transformation, a refreshing departure from over-reliance on CGI. Yet, the film's overall aesthetic, though competent, doesn't break new ground in the terror genre.

Ultimately, *Primate* is a film that knows what it wants to be – a creature feature with a bite – but doesn't quite elevate beyond its B-movie roots. Its 6.6/10 rating feels appropriate; it’s a watchable, if somewhat forgettable, entry into the suspense-terror canon. If you’re looking for a quick thrill and don’t mind a straightforward, no-frills horror experience, *Primate* might just scratch that itch. But don't expect it to linger in your mind long after the credits roll.