Review of King Kong (1933) by Jacob E — 25 May 2013

THIS, is one of the most important films in history. Where do I begin with this one? The innovative uses of stop-motion animation? The breakthroughs in compositing elements of film? Or the fact that this film was one of the few films to feature a major score? I could go on for a long LONG time about how much power and influence this film holds over not only filmmakers, but hundreds of films, TV episodes, and so much more.

This film has defined filmmaking ever since it came out. The effects are (naturally) dated and a lot of the acting is quite bland by today's standards, but no one watches this for the story or acting, it's all about the fact that while stop-motion had been used before (most notably in "The Lost World", released in 1925), this film took it to the next level.

Willis O'Brien is the man who created these effects and would eventually be succeeded by Ray Harryhausen, arguably the most prolific special effects artist of all time (who was inspired by this film, just one of many countless people to do so, including Frank Darabont, Peter Jackson, and Rick Baker).

In total, you have to watch this. And if you don't enjoy, you have to appreciate its impact.