“King Kong” has become an icon of cinema and pop culture. The character and films have inspired countless rip-off movies, theme park rides and the videogame character Donkey Kong (Universal even sued Nintendo at one point). The character has even had cameo appearances in other movies such as “Ready Player One” and “Space Jam: A New Legacy”. Here’s my personal ranking of the all the “King Kong” films.
- King Kong vs. Godzilla
The original showdown between cinema’s greatest giant monsters. While the end battle is a cheesy fun (it’s hilarious when Kong shoves a tree in Godzilla’s mouth), a lot of the movie is pretty boring. The Kong costume also looks horrendous.
- King Kong Escapes
Another Japanese “King Kong” movie. This one sees King Kong fight the robot MechaKong. It’s pretty much the same as “King Kong vs. Godzilla” but it’s a little more exciting.
- King Kong Lives
King Kong is out for a mate in “King Kong Lives”, the sequel to the 1976 remake. While this one has a few decent moments, a lot of it is pretty underwhelming. The movie also stars Linda Hamilton shortly after she had her big role as Sarah Connor in “The Terminator”.
- King Kong (1976)
While it doesn’t really add anything of value, I still have a soft spot for the 1976 remake. The movie stars Jeff Bridges (“Tron”, “The Big Lebowski”). It’s also notable for switch the Empire State Buildings for the World Trade Centre.
- Son Of Kong
Often forgotten, this was one of the first big movie sequels. While it never matches the first movie, it is still worth checking out for fans. One of the shots featuring pterodactyls flying was even used in the magnificent “Citizen Kane”.
- Godzilla vs. Kong
The 2021 rematch was a big improvement over the 1960s original. Better special effects allow for a far more impressive showdown. It was really satisfying to see these two finally battle again after all these years.
- King Kong (2005)
The Peter Jackson (“Lord of the Rings: Return of the King”) remake got some criticism for being a little too long. While it certainly takes its time, the middle section of the movie is just terrific. Kong looks fantastic and the sense of adventure is just great. The film also has an all-star cast with Naomi Watts (“The Ring”), Jack Black (“Nacho Libre”) and Adrien Brody (“The Pianist”). It’s very faithful to the original and feels like a more justified update than the 1976 version.
- Kong: Skull Island
“Kong: Skull Island” blends monster action with a Vietnam War aesthetic. With some truly amazing action sequences, I was very impressed with how this one did something different with Kong as we already had the great Peter Jackson remake. Samuel L. Jackson (“Pulp Fiction”), John Goodman (“The Flintstones”) and Tom Hiddleston (“Thor”) all appear with Jackson probably being my favourite.
- King Kong
The original classic from 1933 still stands as the best of the bunch. Despite the dated effects, there is something still remarkable about it. Unlike the 2005 remake, this one doesn’t waste any time and gets us to the island much faster. For a film so old, it’s incredible how it still sucks you into the brilliant adventure in a strange land.