Movie · 2014
Is The Monkey King based on a book?
Quick answer
Yes. The Monkey King is based on the book Journey to the West by Wu Cheng'en and Li Chunfang (1592).
The movie was released in 2014.
The book behind The Monkey King
Journey to the West
by Wu Cheng'en and Li Chunfang · first published 1592 · fantasy, gods and demons fiction, adventure fiction
One of China's Four Great Classical Novels.
Other adaptations of Journey to the West
- The Forbidden Kingdom (film, 2008)
- A Korean Odyssey (TV, 2017)
- Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons (film, 2013)
- Princess Iron Fan (film, 1941)
- Doraemon: The Record of Nobita's Parallel Visit to the West (film, 1988)
- Havoc in Heaven (film, 1961)
Common questions
Is The Monkey King based on a book?
Yes. The Monkey King is based on the book Journey to the West by Wu Cheng'en and Li Chunfang (1592).
Who wrote the book The Monkey King is based on?
Journey to the West was written by Wu Cheng'en and Li Chunfang and first published in 1592.
Should I read the book before watching?
If you like knowing the full story and characters first, read Journey to the West before you watch. Adaptations often change or cut plotlines, so the book is a different experience even if you've seen the movie.
More screen adaptations of Wu Cheng'en's books
- The Monkey King 2 (film, 2016)
- A Chinese Odyssey (film, 1995)
- Journey to the West (TV, 1986)