The much-anticipated remake of King Kong is this year's most spectacular film. Part of the thrill-packed monster movie's appeal is its hidden surprise: a story that is heartbreakingly sweet.
The movie follows the adventures of a film crew, comprised of a reckless director (Jack Black), a talented playwright (Adrien Brody) and a vaudeville actress (Naomi Watts). They come across a host of prehistoric creatures while visiting the mysterious Skull Island.
There are gigantic dinosaurs, frightening islanders, oversized scorpions and man-eating bugs. But the most fascinating creature is King Kong, a roaring gigantic ape who kidnaps the actress and runs off into the jungle.
The frightening and thrilling jungle scenes are packed with energy and excitement. Director Peter Jackson (Lord of the Rings) presents a world that is wickedly scary and exceptionally sensational.
The movie grows increasingly romantic in the second half, in which the relationship between ape and actress evolves from that of predator and prey to mutual affection.
The scene in which Kong glides on a frozen lake in New York City's Central Park - accompanied by a smiling Watts - is presented with such grace and sweet innocence that it makes King Kong one of the most romantic Hollywood movie of the year.