Kong: Skull Island

"Kong: Skull Island" serves as a reboot and part of the larger MonsterVerse franchise and explores the origins of the iconic giant ape, King Kong.

In 1973, amidst the backdrop of the Vietnam War, an eccentric government agent named Bill Randa (John Goodman) leads an expedition to the mysterious Skull Island, an uncharted island shrouded in secrecy and surrounded by perpetual storms. Accompanying him are a team of scientists, including geologist Houston Brooks (Corey Hawkins) and biologist San Lin (Jing Tian), as well as a group of military personnel led by Lieutenant Colonel Preston Packard (Samuel L. Jackson).

As they arrive on Skull Island, they encounter an enormous ape known as Kong, who fiercely defends the island from intruders. Oher monstrous creatures - such as giant spiders, vicious pterosaurs, and colossal water buffalo - also get in the way and destroy the team's helicopters. Separated and facing imminent danger, they must find a way to survive and reunite to escape.

Amidst the chaos and battles for survival, "Kong: Sull Island" also explores the complex dynamics between the characters. Lieutenant Colonel Packard becomes consumed with vengeance against Kong, seeing him as the embodiment of the enemy he fought in Vietnam. Meanwhile, oher characters, such as photojournalist Mason Weaver (Brie Larson) and former British Special Air Service Captain James Conrad (Tom Hiddleston), develop an odd understanding and empathy towards the monster.

Release: 2017

Stars: Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson, Brie Larson

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 75%