'Kong: Skull Island' A Review

Kong: Skull Island is a monster movie set in the waning days of the Vietnam War. An expedition of surveyors, scientists, military, a photographer, and a jungle expert set off for the uncharted/unexplored Skull Island which is surrounded by a ceaseless storm. When they arrive they begin dropping seismic charges which wakes Kong. He makes quick work of the helicopters and the survivors split into two factions, one lead by Col Packard(Sam Jackson) bent on revenge the other lead by James Conrad(Tom Hiddelston) and Mason Weaver(Brie Larson) more open to the wonders of the island and primarily concerned with survival.

The performances are all fun and almost unilaterally over-the-top, fitting for the tone and style of the film. Jackson, great as always, plays his wild-eyed Colonel with relish. John C. Riley gives a good turn and one of the only balanced performances in the film, providing heart and humor. The other notable turn is from Shea Whigham who's able to balance the stylized tone with some authenticity. Larson and Goodman are both serviceable but aren't given a lot to work with however it works and its clear they're having fun which is probably more important than depth in a film like this. Hiddelston is fine but seems mostly awkward and out of place. For all his fame and praise there are only a few films where his casting is appropriate and his performance functional(I'm thinking Loki in the Marvel movies and Adam in Only Lovers Left Alive). He doesn't read capable action star, he has yet to prove his range.

The real star of the film is Kong himself, the island, and all the creatures that inhabit it. The production design is all vibrant and immaculate with colorful scenery and interesting monsters. It is, for lack of a better descriptor, cool. The score is also a series of classic rock hits, some diegetic and non-diegetic. And it works.

A fun, slick, simple, popcorn movie.

Rent It.