Kong: Skull Island (2017)

Score: 7 / 10
Category: Movie
Platform: Apple TV (Purchase)

One-line verdict

A star-packed and visually impressive Monsterverse entry that gives Kong real presence, even if the continuity and some of the logic wobble.

Why I watched this

I watched this because I decided to go deeper into the Monsterverse after starting with Godzilla and wanting the full experience before moving into Monarch: Legacy of Monsters.

Also, Kong is the second key titan in this universe, so this felt like the obvious next step.

Story & Structure

The movie introduces Kong in a completely different way from the older versions. This isn’t the usual tragic giant ape story. Here, Kong feels more like the ruler and protector of his own place. He’s intimidating, yes, but not mindlessly destructive. Mostly, he wants to be left alone and defend his island.

That worked for me.

The setting in the 1970s also helps the movie stand out. It gives the whole thing a different flavor from the usual modern military monster movie, and visually it really works. Some of the background work and CG scenery are just too good to ignore.

The human side is loaded with recognizable names: John Goodman, Samuel L. Jackson, Brie Larson, and Tom Hiddleston. Acting is never the problem here. In fact, the cast helps carry the movie whenever Kong isn’t on screen.

What worked

• Kong’s design and scale are excellent. Much larger and more imposing than previous versions.
• The 70s setting gives the movie style and identity.
• The visuals are strong, especially the environments.
• The cast is packed with stars and generally delivers.
• Kong being portrayed more as a force of balance than a straight threat is refreshing.

What didn’t

Because this sits inside a shared universe, I watched closely for continuity.

One thing that felt off is how Monarch is presented. Here, Monarch feels more like a monster-hunting or monster-seeking operation, while in Godzilla it felt more like a research organization. That difference stood out.

I also find it hard to fully accept that Kong’s parents were killed by Skullcrawlers while Kong himself seems almost invulnerable. It makes the danger level feel uneven.

So while the movie is very enjoyable, it definitely has some logic and continuity gaps.

What others think

Critics were generally positive on this one. Rotten Tomatoes lists it at 75%, and Metacritic has it at 62/100. The usual praise is for the visuals, cast, and fast pace, while the common criticism is that the human story is thinner than the monster spectacle.

That feels fair to me. I’m probably a little more forgiving because I liked how different this version of Kong felt.

Final thoughts

Despite the plot holes and continuity questions, this is still a fun and memorable Monsterverse movie.

It gives Kong a proper introduction, makes him feel huge, and clearly sets up that this universe is going to get much bigger from here.

So this lands at 7 / 10 for me.

Big scale.
Strong cast.
A different and more interesting Kong.