Movie Review: “Kong” by Stephen Signor

“Kong”

Run Time: 2 hours

By Stephen Signor

I have seen countless films since my first one some 45 years ago. In my life, I have never been so moved, thrilled and captivated by a motion picture than I was with this one. From the moment “Kong” makes his first appearance less than two minutes into the film, to the ending two hours later, I could do nothing but sit in awe at what was happening before me.

Based on the appearance of his 1933 counterpart, this Kong is the tallest incarnation in an American film, standing approximately 104 feet tall. Compare this to Peter Jackson’s Kong released in 2005, who was only 25 feet tall, and what you get is a larger-than-life beast that fills the screen. 

Set in 1973, a diverse team of scientists, soldiers and adventurers unite to explore a mythical, uncharted island in the Pacific - as dangerous as it is beautiful. Both aspects were impressively accomplished with the aid of superb visual effects from Industrial Light & Magic that includes numerous thought provoking slow motion sequences.  Worth mentioning, is a 70’s soundtrack that adds a perfect, “Apocalypse Now” feel to the mood of changing situational environments.  

With a mission of discovery that becomes one of survival, the team must fight to escape a primal Eden in which humanity does not belong. With a plot that thickens and then seamlessly gels, Director, Jordan Vogt-Roberts (2013s “Kings of Summer”) left absolutely nothing to the imagination. Ulterior mission objectives eventually collide, causing raised stakes for survival from each other, as well as the presence of unknown primal creatures that inhabit the island. 

While there are seasoned actors immersed in endless action, there are no lead roles to speak of. Every character has a purpose other than providing dialog. For this reason, they have been omitted. This is enforced and made evident through the additional cast of island natives whose intricately placed tribal paint speaks volumes. An injection of humor, while at times seems a bit corny, actually works taking the edge off stressful situations.

In conclusion, this film works on every level. As for a potential sequel - judge that for yourself. Do not leave the theater until the credits have completed rolling. The film continues with a one minute scene that takes place in an interrogation room with actors Brie Larson (Mason Weaver), Tom Hiddleston (James Conrad) and Mills (Jason Mitchell).