Why new Stephen King movie trailer is ‘too violent for TV’ as four networks reject graphic clip

There’s always a buzz when a Stephen King adaptation is about to make its big debut. Known for his spine-chilling tales, King never shies away from exploring the darker, more gruesome aspects of storytelling. His latest movie, “The Monkey,” stays true to this tradition, capturing the eerie essence fans expect. But, it seems this time, the trailer has struck a chord that even seasoned horror lovers may find a bit too graphic.

Why “The Monkey” Trailer Didn’t Make It to TV

The upcoming film “The Monkey,” directed by Osgood Perkins, is facing hurdles before its release. Based on a short story from King’s collection “Skeleton Crew,” it delves into the chilling events following twin brothers who find a mysterious monkey toy in their attic. What unfolds next is a series of gruesome incidents — dark and terrifying enough that major TV networks have decided against airing its trailer.

The networks cited “excessive violence” as their primary concern, stating the trailer wouldn’t fit into any regular programming slot. Comments from executives indicated that every scene from the preview had elements they deemed inappropriate for their audiences. It’s not the kind of feedback filmmakers hope for, but for horror enthusiasts, it adds an intriguing layer of interest.

Stirring Curiosity and Excitement

While the refusal to air the trailer on television might seem like a setback, it has unexpectedly heightened curiosity among potential viewers. Word of mouth and speculation about what makes the trailer so shocking has stirred excitement and interest in “The Monkey.” After all, what better publicity is there than something being labeled too intense?

The cast for “The Monkey” promises a strong performance, with notable names such as Theo James, Elijah Wood, and Tatiana Maslany stepping into roles that will bring King’s vision to chilling life. Enthusiasts of the genre are eager to see how these actors translate this frightening tale from page to screen.

Anticipation Builds Despite TV Rejections

Despite the rejection from TV networks, many avid fans and curious onlookers have taken to social media platforms, like X, expressing their desire to see the full trailer and, more importantly, the movie itself. This buzz is a testament to Stephen King’s enduring appeal and the public’s appetite for well-crafted horror.

Stephen King has a knack for creating stories that stay with you long after you’ve finished them, and “The Monkey” seems poised to join that rank. The anticipation surrounding the film proves once more that King’s storytelling can indeed stir both fascination and fear.

The film is set to hit theaters on February 21, inviting audiences to discover just what makes “The Monkey” a thrilling watch that couldn’t be contained in a mere TV preview.