Kong: Skull Island REVIEW

There is a rumble in the jungle far far away. That rumble is huge, hairy, and has a howl that sounds like two freight trains are roaring 6 inches from your ears. Yep, I am talking about King Kong. He's back and he is more fun than the Kongs before him.

"Kong: Skull Island" is the latest and greatest version of the mythical monster to turn up on movie screens since the last remake of the remake. That is to say there

have been many. This is one of the best. With more stars than hairs on Kong's face, "Kong: Skull Island" delivers. Brie Larson, Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson and John Goodman all add this flick to their resumes.

Photo Courtesy: Warner Bros. Pictures

We all know the story. There's a beastly creature who isn't exactly as fond of us homo sapiens. Based on his cranky demeanor it would be safe to assume that Kong would rather get his chest hairs plucked one by one rather than deal with us pesky humans. Yet, we insist on putting ourselves right in his path.

In this latest story we find a group of scientists with a theory about an island so secret that it has yet to be explored. It's the early 70's and this group of smarty smarts needs an escort to said island. This is where the government kindly offers up the military and in particular a team lead by Packer (Samuel L. Jackson). A quick stop to pick up a tracker (Tom Hiddelston) and top it off with a photojournalist to document the entire expedition and we are off!

The group is barely within aerial view before they are picked off one by one by an Empire State sized, ticked off, brute of an animal. Soon the audience is transported to Skull Island and the best news is that you don't even need a passport. What follows are the best explosions and effects that CG can buy. Those eager to see what "Kong: Skull Island" has to offer will not be disappointed. It's exactly what you would expect.

Photo Courtesy: Warner Bros. Pictures

Yes, the story is thin and the characters are one dimensional. But folks who buy a ticket for this film aren't going for the Oscar caliber screenplay or acting. Instead, they are going for action - and they will get it. It's exciting and made this crusty critic excited for those who are excited for the movie. It will exceed their expectations. Go for the fun of it!

Movie lovers will bask in shots that are perfectly positioned on the screen. Iconic and statuesque shots where you know talent and creators were hard at work staging the perfect frame.

Photo Courtesy: Warner Bros. Pictures

Overall, "Kong: Skull Island" is a much needed break from heavy narrative films. It's a throwback to one of the reasons why movies exist - to be entertained. You will laugh out loud, you will clap, and you might even shed a tear. The couple just above me did. Do not miss the scene after the credits. There is a teaser there that is even bigger than Kong and opens up an entirely new Warner World.

7/10