A young teenage girl, Katie, can not snap out of her depression after losing her mother. Katie has lost interest in school, her friends, and gymnastics. All that changes in the summer when she is asked to monkeysit Gibby, her science teacher's Capuchin monkey. Taking care of the monkey changes her life in a big way. Gibby's happy-go-lucky personality renews Katie's zest for life. Gibby helps her with gymnastics, renewing friendships (including finding a potential boyfriend) and overcoming her nemesis, a mean girl who is out to beat Katie at everything.
Acting
Crystal the Monkey out-acts everyone; no notes, Oscar-worthy primate.
Practical Effects
Real monkey stunts beat CGI every time—chaotic, authentic, occasionally concerning.
Director
Phil Gorn
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Crystal the Monkey was already a Hollywood veteran, having appeared in 'The Hangover Part II,' 'Night at the Museum,' and multiple 'Pirates of the Caribbean' films before headlining this indie.
The film's entire marketing hinged on Shannon Elizabeth's brief appearance despite her having maybe ten minutes of screen time—peak 2016 direct-to-streaming bait-and-switch.
US
