User Reviews

Monk goes undercover in this episode, to investigate a cult leader (Howie Mandel) accused of murdering a former cult member. Less than five minutes with the cult, and the easily persuaded Monk is lost to the real world. He has to be "kidnaped" by the gang and deprogrammed. But who indeed is the killer? Monk has a lot more work to do to solve the mystery in this one. In the episode's funniest bit, the cult leader convinces Monk that dirt is not his enemy and is actually good for him. This is one of those episodes where you think you've figured it out, but the real answer will sneak up on you and hit you right between the eyes. A fun episode from beginning to end.

'Monk' has always been one of my most watched shows when needing comfort, to relax after a hard day, a good laugh or a way to spend a lazy weekend.

Despite some of the mystery being not too hard to figure out (not blatantly obvious but not a genuine brain-teaser like the previous two episodes), one does find themselves solving some aspects before Monk does, "Mr Monk Joins a Cult" is one of Season 6's better and most entertaining episodes. It is still an engaging mystery and the cult elements were very intriguingly portrayed. Further advantaged by Howie Mandell giving a surprisingly great performance in a role that one is not sure whether it would suit him, bringing warmth and creepiness.

The episode is even more successful in the character moments, with some of the season's funniest moments being here. Highlights include Disher and Monk singing, Disher's interrogation scene, Natalie, Disher, Stottlemeyer and Kroger trying in turns to get Monk out of the brainwashed state he's in, Monk and Natalie's first scene, Monk's list of fears. The characters are not out of character, with Monk being the funniest he's been of the season up to this point. Disher is an idiot here albeit a funny one.

One of the best things about 'Monk' has always been the acting of Tony Shalhoub in the title role. It was essential for him to work and be the glue of the show, and Shalhoub not only is that but also at his very best he IS the show. Have always loved the balance of the humour, which is often hilarious, and pathos, which is sincere and touching. Everybody else supports him very well.

Writing is tight and thought-provoking with some knowing humour and poignancy. Monk's situation is done in a sympathetic albeit suspenseful way, and doesn't feel overdone or trivialised.

The music is both understated and quirky. While there is a preference for the theme music for Season 1, Randy Newman's "It's a Jungle Out There" has grown on me overtime, found it annoying at first but appreciate its meaning and what it's trying to say much more now. The episode as always look slick and stylish.

Overall, great. 9/10 Bethany Cox

This is yet again another example of the main mystery having nothing to do with the title plot. This is a gimmick episode, that has one good moment that should have been utilized more. The good scene being, the cult leader Howie Mendel plays, as he does try to help Monk conquer one of his fears, in a very effective way, that describes what severe OCD is ultimately like for those with the condition. It's well acted, well written. I just wish it wasn't all for not by the end of the episode. But once again, the mystery has nothing to do with the main plot. The stuff with Monk joining the cult are gimmicky and unfunny, and it doesn't dive into the dangers of joining cults.

I really wish the scene where Monk conquers one of his fears, was utilized better.