Buy me a coffee“Son of Kong (1933): A Charming Sequel or a Quick Cash Grab? You Decide!”
What does he look like? Can he love? How does he feel toward the men who captured his father, Mighty King Kong?
(Print Ad- Greensburg Daily Tribune, ((Greensburg, Penna.)) 5 April 1934)
“Son of Kong (1933)” is a captivating sequel that explores the aftermath of King Kong’s rampage, introducing us to his endearing offspring and taking us on a new adventure filled with charm, pragmatism, and a touch of the unexpected.
The 1933 film “Son of Kong” is a sequel that was released in the same year as its predecessor, the iconic “King Kong”. This film, directed by Ernest B. Schoedsack, was produced and released in a remarkably short span of just 290 days. This quick turnaround, while impressive, has led to some criticism regarding the film’s quality and depth.
The Plot
The story picks up a few months after the events of the first movie, with filmmaker Carl Denham (Robert Armstrong) facing numerous lawsuits due to the havoc caused by King Kong in New York. In an attempt to escape his legal troubles, Denham embarks on a new adventure with Captain Englehorn (Frank Reicher), this time leading them back to Kong’s island.
The Characters
The film introduces a new character, Hilda Peterson (Helen Mack), a singer who Denham meets and is charmed by. The character of Nils Helstrom (John Marston), a Norwegian captain who initially provided Denham with the map to Kong’s island, also plays a significant role in the plot.
The Critique
While “Son of Kong” does not match the inventiveness, creativity, and overall horror of “King Kong”, it has its own charm. The film explores the real-world implications of the events of the first movie, offering a pragmatic perspective on the aftermath of Kong’s rampage.
However, the film’s rushed production is evident in its wavering tone and lack of special effects. The plot mechanics and character growth leave much to be desired, and the ending can be seen as nonsensical. Despite these shortcomings, “Son of Kong” is not without its merits. The titular Son of Kong is endearing, and the film’s shift towards a more Todd Browning direction for the sequel makes for an interesting, albeit unimpressive, result.
The Verdict
In conclusion, “Son of Kong” is a film that may not live up to the high standards set by its predecessor, but it is a fine film in its own right. It offers a unique perspective on the aftermath of the events of “King Kong”, and while it may lack the same level of horror and thrill, it makes up for it with its charm and pragmatism. Whether you view it as a charming sequel or a quick cash grab, “Son of Kong” is a film that is worth watching for its place in cinematic history.
The poster art copyright is believed to belong to the distributor of the film, RKO Radio Pictures, the publisher of the film or the graphic artist.
Cast
The cast of “Son of Kong (1933)” includes:
- Robert Armstrong as Carl Denham
- Helen Mack as Hilda Peterson
- Frank Reicher as Captain Englehorn
- John Marston as Captain Nils Helstrom
- Victor Wong as Charlie – Chinese Cook
- Ed Brady as Red
- Cy Clegg as Sailor (uncredited)
- Steve Clemente as Native Witch King (uncredited)
- Harry Cornbleth as Sailor (uncredited)
- Nathan Curry as Native (uncredited)