Spanking the Monkey (1994)" is an award-winning dark comedy and psychological drama directed by David O. Russell. This bold and controversial indie film explores themes of family dysfunction, personal struggle, and psychological conflict with humor and emotional depth. A standout of 1990s indie cinema, "Spanking the Monkey" is both a coming-of-age story and a poignant commentary on family dynamics. Winner of the Sundance Film Festival Audience Award, this cult classic showcases David O. Russell’s early brilliance and remains a must-watch for fans of provocative and thought-provoking cinema.