Summary
Apple’s new crime dramedy seriesBad Monkeystarring Vince Vaughn takes place in Florida and the Bahamas. Vince Vaughn leads thecast ofBad Monkeyas a former Miami detective trying to get his job back after being demoted to a health inspector.Bad Monkeyis one of the many shows created by prolific television producer Bill Lawrence, whose other works includeTed Lasso(2020-2023),Shrinking(2023- ),Cougar Town(2009-2015), andScrubs(2001-2010).Bad Monkeyfollows Vaughn’s Andrew Yancy who comes across a severed human arm and believes it’s his way back to the police force after being demoted to a restaurant inspector in the Florida Keys.
Bad Monkeyis an adaptation of the 2013 novel of the same name written by Carl Hiaasen, who has written several other comedic crime thrillers set in Florida.Bad Monkeyhas received great reviewsupon its release, receiving a strongRotten Tomatoes critic score of 91%as of the time of writing.Bad Monkeymarks the first television series Vaughn has starred in sinceTrue Detectiveseason 2 which was released back in 2015, although he did guest star in several episodes ofCurb Your Enthusiasmseasons 10-12.Bad Monkeyseason 1, episode 2ends with the interconnection of separate series protagonists, Andrew and Neville.
Key West, Florida
A good part of the filming done in Bad Monkey actually took place in the primary setting of the series, which is the Florida Keys. It’s next to impossible to fake the iconic location of the Florida Keys, which is why the production for Bad Monkey took place there, especially considering how much of the series is wrapped around the culture there. Of course,shooting on location in the Florida Keys does present many challenges, particularly with the weather and the high levels of humidity.
The beautiful beaches and tropical scenery of Key West addeda unique and enjoyable “trouble in paradise” vibe toBad Monkey, which oozes into every plot point and visual frame of the series. Several aerial shots of Key West were shown to provide a fully immersive perspective of the location, full of palm trees and lush ocean waters. It makes for a perfect mix of crime and comedy elements in a highly desirable area that often leans into its beach vacation atmosphere.
Miami, Florida
The other prime filming location inBad Monkeyis Miami, Florida, which was used for the scenes in both Miami and the island of Andros in the Bahamas where Neville lives. Andros is also where Christopher and Ever are planning to build their new beachfront property. Key West is approximately 160 miles south of Miami, making a drive of about 4 hours one way. Miami is known for its party atmosphere and bustling nightlife scene, while the Bahamas is a beloved destination for vacationing. Not many television shows are shot entirely in southern Florida, makingBad Monkeya truly authentic viewing experience.
Bad Monkey
Cast
A former Miami detective turned health inspector, Andrew Yancy, discovers a severed arm while working in the Florida Keys. Determined to solve the mystery and reclaim his former position, he navigates through a web of quirky locals and corruption, all while dealing with a troublesome monkey.
