Kong: Skull Island

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Kong: Skull Island takes place in 1973. Two men working with a secret government program (played by John Goodman and Corey Hawkins) lead a mapping expedition to the mysterious Skull Island. Also joining them is a military unit led by Colonel Packard (played by Samuel L. Jackson), tracker James Conrad (played by Tom Hiddleston), and photojournalist Mason Weaver (played by Brie Larson). Upon arriving on the island, they run afoul of Kong and several other inventive monsters. The unlucky people meet a WWII soldier (played by John C. Reilly) who crashed on the island in 1944. The first thing I want to say about this movie is that, for the most part, the cast is really damn good. Tom Hiddleston, John Goodman, John C. Reilly, Brie Larson, and Samuel L. Jackson all bring their A-game to their performances. The only performer who really seemed a little rough to me was Toby Kebbell. He kind of slips in and out of pretty bad southern accent, something that was a little distracting. Character development did feel hit and miss. I feel like the main characters have pretty clear motivations. I understand why they are doing what they’re doing. Other characters feel closer to red shirts than actual characters. They’re kind of just there to die. The action sequences are a lot of fun to watch. One of the best is when Kong attacks the helicopters. The soundtrack is incredible. Each song used perfectly encapsulates its accompanying scene. Among the artists included are Credence Clearwater Revival and Black Sabbath. I love the way this film is directed too. Jordan Vogt-Roberts clearly respects the source material he has been given. He spreads and smatters Kong throughout until the climax. This works because it makes Kong’s appearances meaningful. Several shots and lines are references to other movies. They feel like homages and work within the movie’s context. Overall, Kong: Skull Island proves to be a fun monster movie, despite a couple of rough patches that it must overcome.

8 / 10