KING KONG LIVES

Cinemavixion Review

John Guillermin and Charles McCracken's "King Kong Lives" attempts to revive the iconic ape for a new generation, albeit with a narrative that stretches credulity. The film picks up with Kong surviving his fall from the World Trade Center, necessitating an artificial heart. The plot takes a predictable turn when a female Kong is introduced, leading to an inevitable escape and rampage. While the premise offers a unique twist on the classic tale, the execution falters, reflected in its critical reception and box office performance. Linda Hamilton's presence offers a glimmer of familiar star power, but the film ultimately struggles to recapture the magic or thematic depth of its predecessors. Despite its shortcomings, it remains a curious footnote in the King Kong legacy, offering a late-80s take on the giant ape phenomenon.