TV Series Review: The New Legends of Monkey (2018)
The New Legends of Monkey is a family-friendly fantasy and adventure series from Australia and New Zealand, available on Netflix. This show is a reboot and continuation of a Japanese cult classic series, Monkey, which was particularly popular in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK during the ’70s and ’80s. I haven’t seen the original series, so I can’t say how well this new version follows the original’s tone and feel.
This fresh take on the series is entertaining, with a fun mix of humor, well-executed action scenes, and a classic quest storyline that appeals to a broad audience. It reminded me of ’90s series like Young Hercules, Xena: Princess Warrior, Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, or Relic Hunter. It’s the kind of show where the cast has fun and doesn’t take themselves too seriously.
The New Legends of Monkey tells the story of a young human monk, played by Luciane Buchanan, who is on a mission to save an ancient and magical world overrun by evil demons. She’s helped by three gods: Monkey (Chai Hansen), Pigsy (Josh Thomson), and Sandy (Emilie Cocquerel).
In this world, gods are either dead, captured, or in hiding, while demons rule. But there’s hope. A scholar familiar with ancient texts plans to challenge the demons by freeing the imprisoned Monkey King and gathering the Heavenly scrolls. These scrolls, which Monkey had stolen 500 years earlier and hidden around the globe, are the key to defeating the demons—a move that had angered other immortals, leading to Monkey’s imprisonment.
The scholar’s plan falters, however, when he and his followers are killed by demons. Only his adoptive daughter survives, and with his dying breath, he entrusts her with the mission. She must free the Monkey King, gather the scrolls, and banish the demons. To do this, she disguises herself as a male monk named Tripitaka, shaves her head, and sets out on her journey.
Along the way, she finds allies, including the Monkey King, who struggles not only with the demons but also with his diminished powers after years of imprisonment. A lot has changed in the 500 years since he stole the scrolls, including the rise of the demonic power he now has to help defeat. But Monkey’s ego makes it hard for him to admit his mistakes or limitations.
The New Legends of Monkey is simply good, clean fun. It’s packed with action and moves at a good pace. The characters are likable, and the chemistry among the main cast is clearly evident. While the storyline uses familiar tropes, it does so effectively and entertainingly.
Both kids and adults will find plenty of humor, especially from Monkey and Pigsy. Despite some cheesy moments, the show’s charm shines through. If you’re after a series that the whole family can enjoy, give The New Legends of Monkey a try. With just ten episodes, you might find yourself wishing for more seasons.
Content Note: Rated TV-PG. It includes some tense situations and choreographed violence but has no offensive language, gore, or adult content.
Where to Watch: Netflix.
