Kong: Skull Island is pretty standard blockbuster fare. Lots of explosions, pretty good visuals, and simple plotline to follow. As is standard for post-Avengers blockbuster movies, this film is the second in a planned connected universe of “kaiju” (Japanese for strange beast, or monster) which will eventually see King Kong square off with Godzilla.
One standout element of the film we were treated to though was a faceoff scene involving Samuel L. Jackson and John Goodman. Jackson’s long career as one of the top actors of his generation is well established but Goodman’s talent hasn’t seemed to ever get its full due compared to its stature IMO. Just a half hour into the movie, we get to see the two banter against each other as they fully come to grips with what they will be hunting in the jungles of Skull Island. While it was somewhat entertaining to watch, I got the same sense that I had watching Tilda Swinton, Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Mads Mikkelson all brought together on screen for Doctor Strange; these great actors finally get to work with each other and its with this material? It’s a bittersweet moment; such a collection of talent but not in a film with the gravitas to bring out their best and treat us to a truly great performance or moment.
In sum, Kong: Skull Island isn’t a bad film, it’s just standard. It’s not a movie I’d necessarily feel inclined to rush to the theater see but, due to the visual effects being the biggest draw, you kind of have to see it in a theater to experience the movie at its best. This isn’t an in-home viewing experience. So if you’re interested in the movie, go to the theater. Otherwise, what’s the point?
Image: Warner Bros.
