Son of Kong

About Son of Kong

"Son of Kong" is an American pre-Code adventure monster film that serves as the sequel to the previous year's blockbuster "King Kong." This film tells the story of Robert Driscoll, which continues a month after the events of the original film. Director Carl Denham, guilt-ridden and bankrupt, embarks on another voyage to Skull Island, where he encounters Kong's offspring, a juvenile giant gorilla named Kiko.

Making / Production

The production of "Son of Kong" was a rush job, put into production soon after the success of "King Kong." Willis O'Brien, the pioneer stop-motion animator, was largely responsible for the creature effects, although due to budget constraints, his work here wasn't as extensive or ambitious as the original film.

Actors

• Robert Armstrong as Carl Denham - Armstrong reprises his role from the original, giving a performance full of regret and, ultimately, redemption.
• Helen Mack as Hilda - She played her role well, drawing the audience into her character's struggle and life.
• Frank Reicher as Capt. Englehorn - Reicher adds depth to his portrayal of the Sea Captain.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• "Son of Kong" was released just nine months after the original "King Kong."
• The film only features one monster, Kiko, in contrast to the original's multiple creatures.
• Willis O'Brien was credited for the special effects of the film although his participation was minimum due to budget constraints.

Awards

The film, although a commercial success, did not win or was not nominated for any known awards in its time.

Quotes

• "Well, Denham, the airplanes got him." - from 'King Kong' (1933)
• "It wasn't the airplanes. It was Beauty killed the Beast." - from 'King Kong' (1933)
• "Kong, the eighth wonder of the world!" - from 'King Kong' (1933)

Music, Soundtrack

• The score composed by Max Steiner was extremely well-suited to the film, adding to the mood and tension throughout the movie.
• The film's music was mono-tracked, a common technique for the time.