Kong: Skull Island (2017) is a thrilling reboot of the legendary King Kong saga and the second chapter in Legendary’s MonsterVerse, directed by Jordan Vogt-Roberts. Set against the backdrop of the post-Vietnam War era in 1973, the film assembles a diverse team of scientists, battle-hardened soldiers, and a daring photojournalist who venture into the enigmatic and perilous Skull Island.

Their mission quickly turns perilous as they encounter Kong, an enormous and awe-inspiring ape who reigns supreme over the island’s wild inhabitants. The island teems with monstrous creatures, and the team must navigate a landscape fraught with danger to survive. With standout performances from Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson, John Goodman, and Brie Larson, the film delivers heart-pounding action, spectacular visual effects, and a fresh take on the King Kong mythos, revitalizing the iconic creature for a new audience.

The film was initially unveiled at San Diego Comic-Con in July 2014, with Jordan Vogt-Roberts officially announced as the director two months later. Originally envisioned as a standalone origin story by Universal Pictures, the project was later transitioned to Warner Bros. to be part of a broader cinematic universe, connecting Godzilla and Kong. Principal photography began in October 2015, taking the cast and crew through the breathtaking landscapes of Hawaii and Vietnam, and concluded in March 2016. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for the iconic monster, paving the way for the expansive MonsterVerse crossover.

Kong: Skull Island premiered on March 10, 2017, receiving widespread praise for its stunning visual effects, gripping action sequences, and notable performances, especially by Samuel L. Jackson and John C. Reilly. The film proved to be a commercial success, grossing $566 million worldwide. Its remarkable technical feats earned it an Academy Award nomination for Best Visual Effects at the 90th Oscars. The success of Kong: Skull Island set the stage for the eagerly awaited sequel, Godzilla vs. Kong, which premiered on March 24, 2021.