Review: King Kong (B+)

King Kong (2006)
Directed by Peter Jackson
Starring Naomi Watts, Adrien Brody, Jack Black and Andy Serkis
MPAA: B+

Review by Scott Standish

King Kong is a thrill ride. Perhaps one that goes on a bit too long, but it is indeed thrilling.

Peter Jackson (Lord of the Rings) directs an all-star cast in King Kong, an updated version of the classic that we all grew up with. The film stays true to the original, and Peter Jackson artfully blends action, horror, fantasy and romance. It goes without saying that the visual effects are stunning and the art direction is incredible. The action scenes, specifically where Kong fights with various dinosaurs are truly amazing. King Kong is a wonder to behold.

The acting in King Kong is decent, although not spectacular. Naomi Watts (The Ring, Mulholland Drive delivers a fine performance but Jack Black (School of Rock, Melvin Goes To Dinner) is not at his best here. Adrien Brody (The Pianist) does a passable job as Watt's suitor but let's face it - the star of the show is Kong.

King Kong is a brilliant, amazing, mind blowing thrill ride. The problem is that it goes on way too long. Apocalypse Now can go on for three hours (it has to!), but how in the world did they allow a remake of King Kong to go past three hours? Sure, the Lord of the Rings had to be three hours (and three films) but I am baffled as to why no one told Peter Jackson to cut at least a half hour from this film. Don't get me wrong - I loved Kong but c'mon guys, three hours?

Anyway, Kong is a great film and it deserves to be in any collection, simply for the effects alone. It is truly incredible. King Kong is fun, gorgeous to look at, and at times, the film is very touching. Highly recommended.

Buy King Kong On DVD From DVD Empire