The 8th wonder of the world is back. Kong: Skull Island is primed to open a new world for the character. With all the hype surrounding the film, It’s time to look at this new film and how it stacks up to the other entries in the Kong movie series.
King Kong Lives
Looking back, this film really is the worse of them all. The movie has no real explanation for what the intent of bringing Kong back to life is other than he needs to be in the film. While the idea of Lady Kong was interesting enough it this film damaged the Kong’s film career for a long time. It would take almost two decades for another film to come out and it would be a remake of the original.
King Kong Escapes
No one gives this film the respect or admiration it deserves. King Kong Lives is remembered at least as being a bad sequel. It’s a shame too because this film featured a robotic version of the character which proceeded Godzilla fighting MechaGodzilla by seven years. Sadly, the other aspects around this film, like the strange group of bad guys didn’t exactly age well.
Son of Kong
Probably the most forgotten film on this list. Many forget there was a sequel to the original King Kong. It’s probably due to the decrease in quality and increase in humor in comparison to the first film. Still, despite being an inferior sequel, this film finds a way to beat out a few other entries on this list.
King Kong Vs. Godzilla
Even those who aren’t well versed in giant monster films know of this battle. The international meeting of two great film legends when King Kong fought Godzilla. Sadly the quality of the film isn’t as great as many remember but the sheer reputation and esteem this film garnishes is worthy of note. Let’s the next time the two meet, it will be even more memorable.
King Kong (1978)
The scale King Kong prop unveil in the movie may be underwhelming but this film still has a lot to offer. A modern update of the original movie, this version featured an oil company stumbling onto Kong instead of a production company, less dinosaurs (only one if you count a giant snake), and Kong climbing the World Trade Center in the climax. The appreciation for the film wasn’t helped by real world events which made everyone feel a bit uncomfortable watching the iconic structure being used.
Kong: Skull Island
This film finds a way to open up a whole new world for Kong and helps to give him some new adversaries to fight. It also firm puts him into the extended universe right next to Godzilla. From here on out, more films with this Kong will be a very welcomed sight.
Peter Jackson’s King Kong
Given far too much negative criticism for its length, this movie had a lot to offer any viewer. Director Peter Jackson created a labor of love to the original by updating the story for a new generation. The fight scene between Kong and the three Vastotosaurus Rex is a nail biting and intense thrill. The film also introduced the best female companion Kong has ever had.
King Kong
There is just no topping the original. The 1933 classic featured special effects which were groundbreaking at the time and told a captivating story which sticks with people decades later. The imagery in the film has become iconic and cemented Kong as being a modern day legend. If you haven’t taken the time to watch this film, you owe it to yourself to see the majesty which is this black and white icon.
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What is your favorite King Kong film? Leave a comment below and let us know.
