The Evolution of Kong: From Ape to King

As a child, my love for King Kong was a cornerstone of my fascination with monsters. Growing up, I saw Kong not just as a creature from the movies but as a being with depth and history. This article explores why my admiration for Kong has only grown over the years and why he remains a significant figure in the world of kaiju cinema.

From Third Grade Godzilla to Fascinated Primates

I first encountered Godzilla as a child in third grade, during a game where my friends and I embodied kaiju. As Godzilla, Rodan, and Anguirus were vying for dominance, I ended up with Kong. My earliest fondness for Kong stemmed from the fact that I loved animals, and playing as a giant gorilla ‘zapping’ imaginary kaiju was a thrilling experience.

Another factor in my infatuation with Kong was my fascination with dinosaurs, a passion that led me to become a Godzilla fan. However, no film has ever surpassed Jurassic Park in terms of dinosaur depiction, and the original King Kong holds a special place for me. The original 1933 film, in my opinion, remains one of the greatest ever made, capable of providing endless delight in its incredible visuals and narrative. The 2005 remake also holds a special place as a labor of love from Toho and Legendary.

Anatomy of Gorillas and Primeval Appeal

Early on, I was both terrified and intrigued by gorillas. Movies like The Kong Kops didn't help alleviate my fears, but they sparked an interest that led to a fascination with primates in early grade school. A book about primates printed in 1970, now falling apart, was a constant source of fascination with its beautiful illustrations of various animals. The idea of a gorilla that can interact with dinosaurs, including my beloved Godzilla, is something I’ve always looked forward to.

Evolution of Kong: From Godzilla's Archenemy to Allies

My initial perceptions of Kong and his arch-rival, Godzilla, were influenced by the original 1933 film where Kong arguably defeated Godzilla. However, as I grew older and developed a deeper appreciation for Kong, I began to see these defeats as unbalanced and unjust. The 1978 film King Kong and subsequent films like Kong: Skull Island depict Kong as a dynamic and heroic figure, traits that I admire.

Even though I am fine with Kong losing in the new film, I would have liked to see a more challenging battle. The 2017 film Kong: Skull Island jumps ahead of the original storyline, retelling the tale with an updated and more chaotic narrative. The monster action, chaos, and ferocious battles are a testament to the maturation of the genre. However, the idea remains that there could have been different decisions that would have led to a more compelling outcome. Despite this, both Kingdom comebacks thrilled me. The significance of these films in the context of kaiju cinema is undeniable, often seen as a bridge between the old and the new, eventually concluding with a peaceful coexistence.

Conclusion: Appreciation for Both Giants

Ultimately, my love for both these kaiju giants has not diminished. The journey from childhood to adulthood has enriched my appreciation for how they were developed and portrayed. Whether it's Kong with his unmatched physical prowess or Godzilla, the king of monsters, they both hold a special place in my heart and the heart of fans everywhere. Here's to the next giant, and to the enduring kings of kaiju cinema.