There is no fact when it comes to films; it’s all down to opinion. There is no single greatest movie ever made, nor worst, and even though we clench our fists when we hear people say they don’t like Back to the Future, we have to respect their opinion. But there is one thing that the world seems to agree on: Remakes aren’t really that good.
[Editorial note: Keep an eye out for Cookie ‘N’ Screen’s top 5 remakes, coming tomorrow (4/4/13) - Will]
The film tells the tale of an overly ambitious film maker (Jack Black), who hoards his cast and crew to Skull Island. There, they discover the beast that is King Kong (Andy Serkis), a 25ft Ape who frequently fights off dinosaurs and develops affections for Ann Darrow (Naomi Watts), one of the cast, who shows affection back to the misunderstood animal. Unfortunately, Kong is captured and taken back to New York, and... well, I’m sure you know the rest…
Whilst they may be overshadowed by the giant ape, the rest of the cast deliver great performances. Jack Black, who I understand is not a favourite of everyone (I don’t mind him), gives one of his very rare serious performances, and whilst it’s not the best transition from comedy to drama it’s still pretty good, though I’m sure there are actors who could’ve played the role better. Naomi Watts was also very good. Can’t say I’m a huge fan, having only seen her in this, but her recent Oscar nomination proves she may actually be quite good. Now, having not seen the 1933 original, I can’t compare her to the late Fay Wray, the original Ann Darrow (Trivia: Peter Jackson wanted Fay to make a cameo and say the last line of the film, however she died during pre-production). Adrien Brody also stars as Jack Driscoll, a script writer who falls in love with Ann and joins the expedition by accident after failing to get off the ship in time. I have never been a fan of Brody, probably never will, and this film changes nothing. I think he’s boring, even more so as Jack, and just not a screen presence I enjoy. Luckily, his dullness doesn’t affect the quality of the film.
So don’t let the length put you off, it’s all worth it in the end, with stunning visuals, great cast and a legendary story!
King Kong airs Friday 5th April at 22:35 on ITV1 (UK only). Let us know what you think down in the comments!