King Kong (2005)
Starring Naomi Watts, Jack Black, Adrien Brody, Colin Hanks
Written by Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, and Peter Jackson
Directed by Peter Jackson


King Kong is long. At three hours and eight minutes, I don’t care if you are King Kong or not -- that is a long running time for any film. Fortunately for the audience, Peter Jackson’s King Kong happens to be a very well-crafted and entertaining piece of work.

King Kong is long, yes, but it is also a lot of fun to watch. Peter Jackson, the man behind the Lord of the Rings trilogy, knows a thing or two about making long epics, but thank heavens he knows how to make them fun as well. It is obvious that Peter Jackson is a big fan of the original 1933 King Kong starring Fay Wray because he directs the updated version with lots of hugs & kisses. He respects the content. He respects the story. He respects King Kong. What that produces is an emotionally fulfilling and thrilling spectacle. Utilizing a talented cast consisting of Oscar winner, Adrien Brody, the always fun, Jack Black, and the beautiful Naomi Watts -- Jackson essentially breaks the film into three parts. First we get to know the “humans” living in depression era New York, then we head to Skull Island, the home of Kong, and then everybody comes back to New York for a giant party, so-to-speak.

The first part of the film is like a good drama, full of dilemmas and personal conflicts. The second part is like Jurassic Park, filled with crazy tribes people and rompin’ stompin’ dinosaurs. The third part is like a disaster flick, filled with cars being flipped and buildings being smashed. What a great deal; three great films for the price of one.

King Kong is good old fashioned popcorn munching, pop slurping, “this is why we go to the movies” fun! Good storytelling laced with great special effects. A spectacle in the truest sense. So escape and check out King Kong -- it will be one of the best three hours and eight minutes of your life.


THE RUNDOWN:

The Good: A good old fashioned popcorn movie. Loads of fun.

The Bad: Jack Black can’t help but be funny, even when he is trying to be serious.

The Law: King Kong is awesome.