A massive improvement from 'Godzilla'

Rating: 8/10 (31 January 2018)

Most people probably went into 'Kong: Skull Island' excited about some King Kong action. I went in excited to see what this fantastic cast could come up with. Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson, John Goodman, Samuel L. Jackson and John C. Reilly. All incredible actors and yet all in some way underrated when it comes to their craft. So were they able to turn on the brilliance? Yes, indeed they were. The only one of the five who gave a weak effort in my opinion was John Goodman. His character seems like he's going to be the star early in the film, but then fades into oblivion as things go along. The rest all gave great performances but the best of the five for me was Reilly. He really turned the charm on and was given some great one-liners to work with. He was definitely my favourite part of the movie.
As for the movie itself I was a little skeptical going in. I hadn't really enjoyed 2014's 'Godzilla' at all, and knowing this was a follow on in the same universe had me apprehensive. Luckily though, this was a far superior film in almost every way. The first (actually technically second) time you see Kong in the film is quite a mind-blowing moment. The share size they decided to make him is quite overwhelming and impressive. All the creatures in this movie though are made absolutely terrifically and look great. The action sequences (particularly the one near the end) are filmed exquisitely and are absorbing to watch.
When the 'Godzilla vs. Kong' film is made they need to make sure they lean a lot heavier on Kong and less so on Godzilla. Kong is unquestionably a superior character and makes for far better films. He's relatable is why. People see themselves in him to an extent I believe. 'Kong: Skull Island' was a very good film that I would highly recommend.