Primate | Horror Thriller | Jan 23, 2026
Primate is an upcoming horror-thriller in English, set to release on January 23, 2026, in 2D.
With a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes and rated A, the film combines suspense, terror, and emotional tension in a tropical island setting. It tells a chilling story of trust, family, and survival when a beloved pet turns deadly.
A Deadly Homecoming
The story follows Lucy Pinborough, who returns to her tropical island home expecting a peaceful reunion with her family. However, her family’s pet chimpanzee, Ben, becomes rabid. With her father away and no outside help available, paradise quickly turns into a trap. Lucy and her friends must navigate the island carefully, confronting both fear and betrayal as they struggle to survive.
Cast That Brings Intensity
- Johnny Sequoyah stars as Lucy Pinborough, delivering a performance filled with courage and vulnerability.
- Jessica Alexander plays Hannah, Lucy’s close friend who provides emotional support and quick thinking.
- Troy Kotsur is Adam Pinborough, the father whose absence heightens the suspense.
- Victoria Wyant as Kate and Gia Hunter as Erin Pinborough add depth to the story.
- Benjamin Cheng portrays Nick, while Miguel Torres Umba brings Ben, the dangerous chimpanzee, to life.
The ensemble cast ensures a tense, immersive experience that keeps audiences on edge.
Direction, Writing, and Production
Directed by Johannes Roberts, who co-wrote the screenplay with Ernest Riera, Primate balances horror with character-driven tension. The film is produced by Walter Hamada, John Hodges, and Bradley Pilz under 18Hz Productions and distributed by Paramount Pictures.
Roberts’ direction emphasizes suspenseful pacing and realistic reactions, while the production design captures the beauty and danger of a tropical island. Consequently, the audience feels both the allure and the menace of the setting.
Why Primate Is Worth Watching
Unlike typical creature horrors, Primate focuses on emotional stakes and survival instincts. The chimpanzee, once a trusted companion, becomes a terrifying force, making the threat feel personal and immediate. The story examines how quickly safety can turn to peril and how courage can emerge in moments of extreme danger.
The film is ideal for horror and thriller fans who enjoy tension, unexpected twists, and a story that combines nature’s unpredictability with human drama.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, Primate is a suspenseful, chilling thriller that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. With a strong cast, intense storyline, and a uniquely terrifying premise, it is one of the must-watch horror releases of January 2026. The battle between trust and survival makes this film both frightening and emotionally gripping.
