2026’s Terrifying Killer Ape Movie Gets 92% RT Score

A new horror movie revolving around a killer ape, Primate, has received an impressive score on Rotten Tomatoes. The film has also garnered positive reviews from critics, who have praised the film’s performances, visuals, and style. Helmed by Johannes Roberts, best known for directing movies like Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City, The Strangers: Prey at Night, and 47 Meters Down, the film premiered at Fantastic Fest on September 18, 2025. Notably, the film marks Walter Hamada’s return to production following the end of his tenure as Warner Bros.’ DC Films president.

Primate reviews lead to excellent Rotten Tomatoes score

Primate has received a strong critical score three days ahead of its scheduled theatrical release in the United States on January 9, 2026. As of writing, it boasts a 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes‘ Tomatometer.

The ape horror movie has also received positive reception from critics. YouTuber Perri Nemiroff gave the film a 4/5 and noted that it had the “finest practical creature work” and “some top-tier gore.” She further praised the film by calling it a “hugely successful swing-for-the-fences wild time” and “an excellent start for the horror genre in 2026.”

Meanwhile, FandomWire‘s Sean Boelman said that the film would be “a blast from start to finish” for viewers. He added that the film is exactly what fans are expecting it to be: “lean, gnarly, and mindless.”

Dexerto‘s Chris Tilly labeled the film “a fun-filled horror flick that pits chimp against annoying teens.” He added that the film has “superb practical effects work” and delivers on the premise it promised viewers.

Matt Donato of Daily Dead wrote in his review, “Primate is a mean and merciless ‘When Animals Attack’ flick that runs on pure popcorn entertainment goodness, because sometimes all you need is a furry antagonist and spectacular death scenes.”

Primate follows Lucy, a young girl who returns home from college and reunites with her family, which includes their pet chimpanzee, Ben. While enjoying a tropical vacation with Lucy and her friends, Ben is bitten by a rabid animal and contracts rabies, becoming aggressive as a result. Subsequently, Lucy and her friends barricade themselves in a pool for protection and also try to figure out how to survive Ben’s violence.

In addition to directing Primate, Johannes Roberts co-wrote the screenplay with Ernest Riera. Meanwhile, Walter Hamada co-produced the film with Bradley Pilz and John Hodges.

Source: Comingsoon.net