The ape's face expresses emotions more deep and real than that of most of the actors, and when he took his inevitable fall at the end of the film, tears filled my eyes.

Despite it's numerous qualities, this movie did have flaws. I felt it was too long. A good editor could have cut the story down to about two and half hours, and maintained its emotional power without stretching overlong. Additionally, some of the acting was flawed. Jack Black played the character he always played, and his over-the-top antics didn't fit the role. Adrian Brody and Naomi Watts shone, but the bit players were nothing special.

In terms of film as art, this may not be the best movie of the year. And yet, it is the most entertaining movie I've seen in the past five. Peter Jackson has again captured the magic of movies, creating a movie that is pure, entertaining fun.

Article by
Stephanie Beaudoin - Seattle, Washington, USA

Going into the theater to see Peter Jackson's King Kong, I was full of uncertainty. Not only was it a remake of what seemed to be a very cheesy movie, it was a remake that was over three hours long! Within the first few minutes, however, my fears were allayed.

Peter Jackson has captured more than just a movie; he has captured an era. His 1930's world is presented with astounding completeness and beauty, thanks to his vision and his fabulous special effects team. The island home of King Kong, as well, is lush and vibrant, with numerous creatures that defy belief. The special effects make everything seem real, and the story makes it all feel plausible.

The great ape himself, however, is what steals the show. The animation for King Kong was motion captured by the same actor who played Gollum in Jackson's Lord of the Rings series, and his emotions are even more powerful in this role.