Experience Terror in a Sacred Setting: Neon’s Unconventional Marketing for “The Monkey”

In just a week, Osgood Perkins’ highly anticipated horror film, The Monkey, will finally hit theaters, bringing with it a wave of suspense and gore. While most viewers will catch it on the big screen or via streaming platforms, a select few may have the unique opportunity to watch it in a more unconventional setting – their local church.

To make this possible, Neon is inviting audiences to sign up their place of worship to screen the film, allowing viewers to experience the horror movie in a hallowed and eerie environment. Interested parties need only fill out a simple form, answering three questions: why their church should be chosen to screen The Monkey (in 100 words or less), whether salvation comes through faith or film, and identifying the “greatest sin of all” (hint: it’s using your phone in a movie theater). Note that only authorized religious institutions are eligible, so attempting to declare a private residence a church won’t suffice.

This unorthodox marketing approach is reminiscent of Neon’s previous campaigns, such as the cryptic trailers and interactive phone number for Longlegs, which featured pre-recorded messages from Nicolas Cage. Similarly, the studio’s other major 2024 horror release, Immaculate, was promoted using negative reviews from devout Christians, with one review even being printed on a t-shirt (although it’s not available for purchase).

The Monkey is set to hit theaters on Friday, so those interested in making a memorable experience out of the film can apply to host a screening at their church by visiting the official website.

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