| The original 1933 'King Kong' is by far one of the greatest and most important films in history. That none of the various remakes or sequels have been able to recapture the magic found here is a testament to Merian C. Cooper's vision and artistry.
The special effects work by Willis O'Brien that brought Kong to life are still as effective today as they were when the film debuted, despite the passage of years and the advances in technology.
While much of the cast acts a bit broadly (this film coming not long into the "talkie" era), two performances stand out. Robert Armstrong grabs the audience with gusto in the role of Carl Denham, adventurer and alter-ego of Cooper. And Fay Wray, in one of the most celebrated performances in the history of film, lights up the screen as Ann Darrow, would-be actress and the object of the big ape's affections.
But the film belongs to Kong, the first real "virtual" character, interacting believably with his environment and the actors in a way not previously thought possible. Everything that makes modern effects-laden films possible owes a debt to 'King Kong'. | 
