In "Laugh Now," Banksy uses apes as symbols of oppression, drawing on the primal fear associated with our evolutionary origins. Apes, despite being our ancestors, are often subjected to degrading treatment as zoo exhibits and subjects of experiments. The reference to "Planet of the Apes" adds another layer to the artwork, evoking cultural significance for Banksy's generation.

This iconic piece originated as a commissioned mural featuring ten monkey reproductions at the Ocean Rooms club in Brighton, UK. In 2003, it was also released as a limited-edition print, with only 150 signed and 600 unsigned copies available. In 2008, the painting fetched a record-breaking price of half a million dollars.