Pop Culture Thoughts

Rating: 8/10 (1 December 2018)

Like many major monster movies, "Kong: Skull Island" has underdeveloped characters, A-list actors not doing much acting, and a script that leaves a lot to be desired. Now, with that out of the way, this "King Kong" remake is one hell of a good time. With countless references to "Apocalypse Now," the movie has an operatic, larger-than-life atmosphere that manages to effectively mirror the over-the-top story, and is remarkably well-shot. But the special effects are the real star of the show, with striking details and awe-inspiring battle scenes. This isn't great cinema but it's pretty much the best case scenario for a major monster movie.