With uncertainty looming large over the theatrical release of Dev Patel’s Monkey Man in India, users are flocking to illegal pirated sites to watch the action thriller that has been leaked online following its digital release in the US, according to reports.

Produced by Jordan Peele, Monkey Man has swiftly transitioned to video-on-demand platforms in the US after a brief stint in cinemas lasting just over two weeks. The film, which marks Patel’s directorial debut, is now available for digital purchase or rental on Amazon Prime, Google Play, Apple TV and Vudu, with pricing contingent upon the chosen platform.

Written by Patel in collaboration with Paul Angunawela and John Collee, Monkey Man featuring Patel in a leading role amassed a commendable USD 28.5 million in global box office revenue during its theatrical run.

Monkey Man was initially supposed to be released in theatres in India on April 5. However, it was postponed indefinitely. This uncertainty has led many film enthusiasts to opt for the pirated version. Piracy, however, constitutes a criminal offence under the Copyright Act of 1957 in India and is subject to legal repercussions.

Monkey Man narrates the story of a man's quest for revenge following his mother's death at the hands of corrupt politicians. Patel portrays the titular character who frequents an underground boxing circuit in Mumbai, donning a distinctive monkey mask. Initially coerced into losing matches for money, the Monkey Man's life takes a perilous turn when adversaries attempt to eliminate him, prompting him to fight not just for victory but for survival.

Alongside Patel, Monkey Man boasts an ensemble cast including Sharlto Copley, Sobhita Dhulipala, Sikandar Kher, Makarand Deshpande and Ashwini Kalsekar.