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Peter Jackson's 'King Kong' leaps off the screen
by Bob Longino

Peter Jackson loves the original 1933 "King Kong." It shows in every way in his own "King Kong," a big, bold, gigantor of an action movie that's part head-knocking smackdown, part intimate beauty and the beast and thoroughly entertaining a lot of the time. At three hours and seven minutes, the new "Kong" is way longer than it needs to be. It also pushes its lady and the ape relationship over the edge of "An Affair to Remember" treacly. Despite its thin story, the special effects are out-of-this-world terrific. And you can take this to the bank: The Skull Island sequences, with their raging dinosaurs, icky-goo bugs and seemingly endless chase scenes, equal the best amusement ride you've ever been on. Read the full review

TO SUM UP
A 1930s filmmaker sails to a remote island to film his latest epic with leading lady Ann Darrow. Natives kidnap Ann to use as a sacrifice to "Kong," but instead of devouring Ann, the giant ape saves her — and falls in love with her. The beauty soothes the beast long enough for him to be captured, and they meet their fate in New York City.

FILM FACTS ...

Universal Pictures

'King Kong'

Director: Peter Jackson
Starring: Naomi Watts, Jack Black, Adrien Brody, Andy Serkis, Thomas Kretschmann
Run time: 187 minutes
Release date: Dec. 14, 2005
Rating: PG-13 for frightening adventure violence and some disturbing images.
See showtimes

On the set
See finished frames and the work in progress in this "King Kong" slideshow.

On the web
Official movie site
View the trailer
Trailers require Quicktime

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READ THE REVIEW

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution: B+
"This 'Kong' is Jackson's playground, and if he goes a bit overboard here and there, well, he deserves to."

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Austin American-Statesman: 4 of 5 stars
"Kong makes a swell if touchy lover. He feels profoundly, displaying a range of moods and personality through the sensitive detail of Serkis' performance. Watch Kong's eyes. With delicate poignancy, they say everything."

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Dayton Daily News: A-
"King Kong cements Jackson's reputation as today's top spectacle master, as he expertly balances realistic storytelling with fantastic special effects."

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Middletown Journal: A+
"... carried me to a place from which I did not want to leave — and to which I am anxious to return."

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The Palm Beach Post: A
"Seat belt use should be mandatory for all showings of Peter Jackson's King Kong, the most jolt-riddled movie ride in memory."