W2TCH

Kong: Skull Island (2017)

2017 • 1h 58m • Adventure, Fantasy • PG-13
On October 4, 2026
#1499▼ 49
1499th by Pulse movie online
7.0PULSEPulse MeterOur daily Pulse Meter measures public activity and popularity signals across the web.How it works →

All reviews

Reno on Kong: Skull Island

6/10 · Nov 4, 2017

It feels like I’m among the few who didn't realize this wasn't connected to the 2005 movie. Kong’s size was noticeably different, standing over one hundred feet tall compared to twenty-five a decade earlier. As someone who appreciates Peter Jackson’s work and that original film, I initially disliked the concept—a completely new cast and crew seemed unnecessary. My expectations were low, and it wasn't until I started watching that I understood it was a fresh take on the story. It has a different feel than any King Kong movie I’ve seen before, with updated visuals, actors, a timeline shift, and an entirely unique tone. The filmmakers prioritized action over a meaningful plot. That doesn't mean I enjoyed it; it felt pretty average. The action-adventure sequences were the only parts that stood out to me, but the overall presentation seemed geared toward commercial appeal. I even questioned whether I was watching a Hollywood production or something from Rajamouli, given their signature stunt work. The most predictable aspect of the film involved the familiar trope of people entering a dangerous area and only some surviving. A group of scientists, accompanied by military personnel, are taken to a hidden island in the South Pacific for research. They quickly discover they’re in a perilous place populated by giant creatures, leading to a survival situation after several soldiers are lost. The general's focus on revenge drives much of the narrative. The rest unfolds as a series of battles. Essentially, this film appears designed to combine the 'Godzilla' franchise with this one. A post-credit scene offers some insight into future installments, but it reminded me too much of the comedy ‘Journey 2: The Mysterious Island.’ Usually, spoofs are made of successful movies, but here, it seems like the opposite has happened. Despite having a capable cast and solid direction, visuals, music, and sound effects, the film is ultimately enjoyable yet forgettable. There were several things I didn’t care for. The Peter Jackson movie felt artistic; each shot resembled a classic painting. Seeing Kong standing upright and walking like a person was off-putting—he didn't act like an ape should. Many scenes seemed borrowed from other films, simply substituting different creatures and placing them in a new setting. It's a decent way to spend a weekend, especially if you appreciate impressive graphics. _5.5/10_

Source on TMDB