King Kong Movies: A Complete Watch Order Guide
Hey Kong fans! Ever wondered about the correct order to watch the King Kong movies? With so many versions, remakes, and reboots, it’s easy to get lost in the jungle of giant ape cinema. Don't worry, guys, I've got you covered! This guide will walk you through all the King Kong movies in chronological order, so you can experience the full Kong saga without missing a beat. From the groundbreaking original to the modern MonsterVerse, we'll explore the epic journey of cinema’s most iconic ape. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready for a wild ride through the world of King Kong!
The Original Classic: King Kong (1933)
Let's kick things off with the granddaddy of all ape movies: the original King Kong from 1933. This movie is a true classic and a landmark in cinematic history. Directed by Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Schoedsack, this black-and-white masterpiece introduced the world to the iconic giant ape from Skull Island. The story follows a film crew, led by the ambitious director Carl Denham (played by Robert Armstrong), as they venture to the mysterious Skull Island to shoot a movie. Little do they know, the island is home to prehistoric creatures and a colossal ape worshipped by the native inhabitants. When they encounter Kong, they're immediately captivated by his immense size and power. The crew eventually captures Kong and brings him back to New York City to be showcased as the "Eighth Wonder of the World."
However, things quickly go awry when Kong escapes, leading to the unforgettable climax atop the Empire State Building. The groundbreaking stop-motion animation by Willis O'Brien brought Kong to life in a way that had never been seen before. Despite its age, the 1933 King Kong still holds up remarkably well, thanks to its compelling story, memorable characters, and groundbreaking special effects. It's a must-watch for any fan of monster movies or classic cinema. The film explores themes of man versus nature, exploitation, and the tragic consequences of ambition. Kong's capture and subsequent destruction in New York serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of tampering with the unknown and the ethical implications of exploiting wild creatures for entertainment. The original King Kong set the standard for all giant monster movies that followed and remains a significant cultural touchstone. It is the foundation upon which the entire King Kong franchise is built.
Son of Kong (1933)
Following the immense success of the original, Son of Kong was released just months later in 1933. This sequel, also directed by Ernest B. Schoedsack, is a lighter, more comedic adventure that revisits Skull Island. Carl Denham, haunted by the events of the first film, returns to the island in an attempt to redeem himself and find new opportunities. This time, he discovers a smaller, albino ape who is, as the title suggests, the son of Kong. Son of Kong is a departure from the darker tone of its predecessor, offering a more family-friendly adventure. While it may not reach the same heights as the original, it's still a fun and entertaining watch for fans of the franchise. The special effects are less impressive than those in the original, but the film's charm and lightheartedness make up for it. The plot revolves around Denham's efforts to help Little Kong, as the albino ape is affectionately called, and his encounters with various creatures on the island. This film expands on the lore of Skull Island, introducing new creatures and exploring the island's unique ecosystem. Son of Kong provides a different perspective on the King Kong story, focusing on themes of redemption and the bond between humans and animals. It's a worthwhile addition to the franchise, offering a lighter, more optimistic take on the King Kong mythos.
King Kong vs. Godzilla (1962)
In 1962, King Kong faced off against another giant monster in King Kong vs. Godzilla. This Japanese film, produced by Toho Company, is a classic monster mashup that pits two of cinema's most iconic creatures against each other. The story involves a pharmaceutical company seeking a monster to boost their television ratings. They discover Kong on a remote island and decide to bring him back to Japan. Meanwhile, Godzilla is awakened by an underwater volcano and begins wreaking havoc across the country. Naturally, the two monsters eventually clash in a series of epic battles. King Kong vs. Godzilla is a fun and campy film that showcases the sheer spectacle of two giant monsters duking it out. The special effects, while dated by today's standards, are impressive for their time. The film was a massive success in Japan and helped to revitalize both the King Kong and Godzilla franchises. It's a must-see for fans of kaiju movies and anyone who enjoys seeing giant monsters destroy cities. The film is notable for its lighthearted tone and over-the-top action sequences. It was the first time King Kong was presented in color and in widescreen, adding to the visual spectacle. The film's success demonstrated the enduring appeal of monster crossovers and paved the way for future monster battles in both the King Kong and Godzilla franchises. King Kong vs. Godzilla remains a beloved classic and a testament to the enduring popularity of giant monster movies.
King Kong Escapes (1967)
King Kong Escapes, released in 1967, is another Japanese film featuring King Kong, this time loosely based on the Rankin/Bass animated series The King Kong Show. In this movie, Dr. Who (no relation to the Time Lord) creates a mechanical King Kong called Mechani-Kong to dig for Element X, a highly radioactive substance. When Mechani-Kong proves to be ineffective, Dr. Who sets his sights on capturing the real King Kong to complete his mission. The film follows Kong's adventures as he battles Mechani-Kong and thwarts Dr. Who's evil plans. King Kong Escapes is a campy and colorful adventure that leans heavily into the science fiction elements. The special effects are typical of the era, with miniature sets and rubber monster suits. While it may not be considered a masterpiece, it's still an enjoyable and entertaining film for fans of the King Kong franchise. The film's plot is outlandish and over-the-top, but it adds to the overall charm of the movie. The introduction of Mechani-Kong provides a unique twist on the King Kong mythos, creating a memorable and formidable opponent for the giant ape. King Kong Escapes is a fun and lighthearted addition to the franchise, offering a different perspective on the King Kong story. It's a must-see for fans of Japanese monster movies and anyone who enjoys a bit of campy sci-fi action.
King Kong (1976)
The 1976 remake of King Kong brought the giant ape to a new generation. Produced by Dino De Laurentiis and directed by John Guillermin, this version stars Jeff Bridges, Charles Grodin, and Jessica Lange. The story follows a petroleum exploration expedition that stumbles upon Skull Island, where they encounter Kong. This time, instead of a film crew, it's an oil company looking to exploit the island's resources. The remake features updated special effects, including a life-size Kong robot, though it wasn't entirely successful. Jessica Lange's performance as Dwan, the damsel in distress, helped launch her career. While the 1976 King Kong has its detractors, it's still a significant entry in the franchise. It offers a modern (for the time) take on the classic story, with updated themes and visuals. The film explores the conflict between corporate greed and the natural world, adding a contemporary edge to the King Kong mythos. While it may not capture the magic of the original, the 1976 remake is a worthwhile watch for fans of the franchise. The film's visual effects were ambitious for their time, though they don't always hold up by today's standards. The film's climax, set at the World Trade Center in New York City, is a memorable and iconic scene. The 1976 King Kong is a product of its time, reflecting the sensibilities and concerns of the 1970s. It remains a significant and controversial entry in the King Kong canon.
King Kong Lives (1986)
A decade after the remake, King Kong Lives (1986) attempted to continue the story. This sequel, directed by John Guillermin, picks up after the events of the 1976 film. Kong is still alive, albeit in a coma, and scientists work to save him by giving him an artificial heart. They also discover a female Kong, dubbed Lady Kong, and the two apes form a bond. King Kong Lives is generally considered to be one of the weakest entries in the franchise. The plot is convoluted, the special effects are underwhelming, and the acting is subpar. However, it does offer a unique take on the King Kong story, exploring themes of love and family within the context of giant monsters. Despite its flaws, King Kong Lives has a certain campy charm that some fans may appreciate. The film's plot is outlandish and illogical, but it adds to the overall entertainment value. The introduction of Lady Kong provides a new dynamic to the King Kong mythos, exploring the potential for romance and family among giant apes. While King Kong Lives may not be a critical success, it's a memorable and unique entry in the franchise. The film's low budget and questionable special effects contribute to its campy appeal. Despite its flaws, King Kong Lives remains a significant part of the King Kong legacy, showcasing the enduring appeal of the giant ape and the willingness of filmmakers to explore new and unusual directions with the character.
King Kong (2005)
Peter Jackson, fresh off the success of The Lord of the Rings trilogy, directed a new version of King Kong in 2005. This epic remake stars Naomi Watts, Jack Black, and Adrien Brody and is a lavish and visually stunning retelling of the classic story. The film follows a film crew that travels to Skull Island to shoot a movie, where they encounter Kong and other prehistoric creatures. Jackson's King Kong is a love letter to the original film, with meticulous attention to detail and a grand sense of scale. The special effects are state-of-the-art, bringing Kong to life in a way that had never been seen before. The film is longer and more expansive than previous versions, delving deeper into the characters and the world of Skull Island. While some critics found the film to be overlong, it was a commercial success and received positive reviews for its visual effects and performances. Jackson's King Kong is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant take on the classic story. The film's special effects are groundbreaking, bringing Kong and the creatures of Skull Island to life with incredible detail. The performances of the cast are also noteworthy, with Naomi Watts delivering a particularly strong performance as Ann Darrow. The film explores themes of beauty and the beast, the power of nature, and the dangers of human ambition. Jackson's King Kong is a modern masterpiece and a must-see for fans of the franchise. The film's extended runtime allows for a deeper exploration of the characters and the world of Skull Island, creating a more immersive and engaging experience. Despite its length, Jackson's King Kong remains a captivating and entertaining film, showcasing the enduring appeal of the giant ape and the power of cinematic storytelling.
Kong: Skull Island (2017)
Kong: Skull Island, released in 2017, is a reboot of the franchise and a part of the MonsterVerse, which also includes Godzilla and other iconic monsters. Directed by Jordan Vogt-Roberts, this film stars Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson, Brie Larson, and John Goodman. The story is set in 1973 and follows a team of scientists and soldiers who venture to Skull Island to map its uncharted territory. They soon discover that the island is home to Kong and a host of other dangerous creatures. Kong: Skull Island is an action-packed adventure that delivers thrilling monster battles and stunning visuals. The film establishes Kong as a protector of the island, battling against the Skullcrawlers, the creatures responsible for the extinction of his species. The film sets the stage for future MonsterVerse crossovers, hinting at the larger world of monsters that exists beyond Skull Island. Kong: Skull Island is a visually stunning and action-packed addition to the King Kong franchise. The film's special effects are top-notch, bringing Kong and the creatures of Skull Island to life with incredible detail. The performances of the cast are also noteworthy, with Samuel L. Jackson delivering a particularly memorable performance as the vengeful Colonel Packard. The film explores themes of man versus nature, the consequences of war, and the importance of protecting the environment. Kong: Skull Island is a modern blockbuster and a must-see for fans of the King Kong franchise and the MonsterVerse.
Godzilla vs. Kong (2021)
The latest installment in the MonsterVerse, Godzilla vs. Kong (2021), brings the two titans together for another epic showdown. Directed by Adam Wingard, this film stars Alexander Skarsgård, Millie Bobby Brown, Rebecca Hall, and Brian Tyree Henry. The story follows Kong as he is transported from Skull Island to the Hollow Earth, a subterranean world that is the source of the titans' power. Meanwhile, Godzilla is mysteriously attacking cities around the world, and humanity looks to Kong to stop him. The two monsters eventually clash in a series of spectacular battles, culminating in an alliance against a common enemy: Mechagodzilla. Godzilla vs. Kong is a visually stunning and action-packed film that delivers everything fans could want from a monster movie. The special effects are incredible, bringing Godzilla and Kong to life with unprecedented detail. The film explores themes of balance, cooperation, and the importance of understanding the natural world. Godzilla vs. Kong is a modern blockbuster and a must-see for fans of the King Kong and Godzilla franchises and the MonsterVerse. The film's success has paved the way for future MonsterVerse installments, ensuring that the giant monsters will continue to thrill audiences for years to come. The battles between Godzilla and Kong are epic and unforgettable, showcasing the immense power and scale of these iconic creatures. Godzilla vs. Kong is a celebration of monster movies and a testament to the enduring appeal of these larger-than-life characters. So, there you have it, guys, the complete order to watch the King Kong movies! Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the franchise, there's something for everyone in this epic saga of the giant ape. Happy watching!
