Mr. Monk's Last Case: A Monk Movie

I watched some episodes of Monk the series, so I was familiar with the character when this revival from 2023 popped up on one of my movie lists.

As I did not find anything else on offer I went for it and I must say it got me hooked from the beginning. I was afraid it might be a pale remembrance of the series, but it actually left a very vivid mark on me.

Monk, his old, OCD self, is the same and commands the screen in a very endearing, unassuming way.

As it is a post-pandemic movie it does make a point of showing how now, people are more like Monk, with the sanitizers and cleaning wipes. Which is interesting to observe, we have truly changed as a society.

Of course Monk needs to solve a murder, but I will not dwell on it, it is a heart breaking story which also tugs at the heart strings.

What I do want to mention though, is the parallel story of Monk’s wish to end it all and his active plans towards it.

It has been a long time since I have seen a story so well and thoughtfully delve into the heart and mind of somebody contemplating the end.

It has to be a bit funny as otherwise it is just too dark and we get lost in the sadness and pain of it all, but I have to say, this movie just looks at it so gently that we can bear looking at it.

Monk is riddled with obsessions, he is alone, he feels his work has been useless as the world is more violent than ever, he feels he does not matter and has not made any difference to anyone.

He navigates his crumbling inner world, while trying to untangle the mystery of the outside world murder that has taken place. He does all this in his funny, awkward manner, bringing a lot of smiles in the process.

A scene that I found extremely entertaining and endearing was the one with the twin funeral directors played by Richard Kind. Such a funny, and sad at the same time, scene showing what it would be like if you went to choose your own casket while on a budget. And Richard Kind is just outstanding.

Such a joy to watch!

I am happy to say that Monk does get the killer providing closure to his step daughter and also in the end he understands how he does and did matter.

It brought tears to my eyes and I felt so, so much for Monk, I am overjoyed he made it through the darkness inside.

I totally recommend the movie, it is a story that is worth seeing.

I enjoyed it very much! And for sure I will watch it again.