Apple TV+ ‘Bad Monkey’ Episode 8 Review - The Russian Mob Stirs the Pot in Key West

Episode 8 of Bad Monkey, titled The Russian Mob Is Very Active in Key West, takes the series' chaotic yet darkly comedic energy up a notch. After the high-stakes ending of Episode 7, the show wastes no time in drawing us back into the heat of Yancy’s bizarre world. As the protagonist faces the added threat of the Russian mob, the stakes grow higher, with plenty of mystery and a sprinkle of absurdity keeping the momentum going.

Vince Vaughn continues to embrace the ridiculousness of his character, Andrew Yancy, an ex-cop who finds himself embroiled in an ever-deepening mess. This time, Yancy isn’t just dealing with a severed arm and Key West corruption—he’s navigating the murky waters of the Russian mob. While the mob involvement could easily veer into more serious, thriller territory, Bad Monkey smartly sticks to its tone, balancing humor and crime, with Yancy’s new plan to outwit Nick and Eve serving as a focal point.

What works especially well in this episode is the continuing development of Yancy’s relationships. The witty banter and chemistry between Yancy and Dr. Rosa Campesino provide some of the lighter, more enjoyable moments. Rosa’s sharp, no-nonsense approach complements Yancy’s chaotic energy perfectly, and their dynamic gives the show some much-needed warmth amidst the escalating tension. Meanwhile, Yancy’s old flame, Bonnie Witt, makes an appearance, complicating things just enough without overwhelming the primary narrative. The personal relationships here aren’t just side distractions but pivotal to the emotional core of the show.

In terms of plot, this episode leans heavily into the mob angle without losing the essence of what makes Bad Monkey stand out—its absurdity. The Russian mob's involvement seems like a natural escalation after all the weirdness Key West has already thrown at Yancy. However, the mobsters aren't your typical grim-faced villains. The episode keeps them humorous and slightly unhinged, in line with the tone of the show. But it does pose a legitimate threat to Yancy's goal of cleaning up his corner of paradise, making the stakes feel real without sacrificing the show's breezy appeal.

From a technical standpoint, the episode shines visually. The Florida Keys remain a beautiful backdrop, contrasting with the underlying tension and crime of the plot. The vibrant colors, the sun-soaked scenery, and the occasional glimpse of tropical wildlife ground the show in a location that feels more like a character than just a setting. The production quality is strong, as we’ve come to expect from Apple TV+, and it continues to bolster the immersive experience.

But not everything is perfect in Episode 8. At times, the show’s pacing stumbles. While the episodes are longer than you’d expect, which allows for a deeper exploration of the characters and plot, this one occasionally meanders. The mob’s introduction feels a little late in the season, and the episode struggles to fully integrate them into the broader story. This slow build-up can be frustrating for viewers eager for more plot movement as the season nears its end. While the mob storyline is interesting, it doesn’t feel as fully fleshed out as it could have been.

Additionally, some of the humor, while in line with the show’s tone, occasionally lands awkwardly. Vaughn’s offbeat performance generally works, but the balance between comedy and drama isn't always smooth. The shift between light-hearted banter and serious threats sometimes feels jarring, leaving the viewer wondering if they’re supposed to laugh or worry about the situation unfolding.

That being said, the performances continue to elevate the material. Vaughn, as always, carries Yancy’s lovable rogue persona with ease, managing to make even the most ludicrous situations feel grounded in his own quirky reality. Rosa played with subtle brilliance, is an effective counterbalance, and the supporting cast brings their A-game, even when the plot wavers.

Overall, Episode 8 is a strong addition to the season, despite its few hiccups. It captures the absurdity, charm, and danger that defines Bad Monkey, while pushing the story forward in meaningful, albeit slower, ways. With only two episodes left, the show leaves us wondering how Yancy will manage to escape the tightening web of crime, romance, and his own questionable decisions. The Russian mob might be active, but it’s Yancy’s unpredictable path that keeps us hooked. If you’re a fan of darkly humorous crime shows with a quirky protagonist, Bad Monkey continues to deliver what you’ve come to love, even if it stumbles here and there.

Final Score - [7/10]