Son of Kong (1933)

Director: Ernest B Schoedsack
Starring: Robert Armstrong, Helen Mack, Frank Reicher

Synopsis:
Destitute and facing indictment, Carl Denham takes to the seas and returns to Kong Island, where he finds the son of King Kong.

Impressions:
This lighter and softer sequel to the original King Kong can't compare to its predecessor, naturally, but I don't blame the filmmakers all that much, seeing as how they had a much smaller budget and a shorter window to get it shot and out in theaters. It feels rushed and underdeveloped because it was. At very least, they brought back Robert Armstrong, Frank Reicher, Victor Wong, and Noble Johnson (and Fay Wray's scream) for continuity's sake. Neither the Denham character nor the new female lead are as compelling as the leads from the original and due to people annoying Willis O'Brien, the effects aren't as good either. Little Kong is a lot goofier than his old man, which may or may not be a bad thing in your view. It's not great, but clocking in at a mere 70 minutes, it's over quickly if you're curious.

Rating:
50/50