The movie is set in the early 1970s, during the final days of the Vietnam War. A group of scientists and military personnel, led by Bill Randa (John Goodman) and Captain James Conrad (Tom Hiddleston), embark on an expedition to the uncharted Skull Island.
Upon arriving on the island, the team begins dropping seismic charges to map the terrain. However, this action awakens Kong, a gigantic ape who is the last of his kind and serves as the island’s protector. Kong attacks the helicopters, resulting in chaos and casualties.
The survivors are split into two groups. One group, led by Conrad and photojournalist Mason Weaver (Brie Larson), aims to reunite with the rest of the team, while the other group, including Randa and Colonel Preston Packard (Samuel L. Jackson), seeks revenge against Kong.
As the two groups navigate the dangers of Skull Island, they encounter various colossal creatures, known as Skullcrawlers, that pose a threat to both humans and Kong. The true nature of the island is revealed, including the existence of an ancient civilization that worshiped Kong as a god.
In the climactic battle, Kong faces off against the largest Skullcrawler, known as the Skull Devil. The fight is intense, with Kong displaying his strength and agility to protect both the humans and his territory. The humans, realizing Kong’s role in maintaining the balance, support him in the battle against the Skull Devil.
Ultimately, Kong defeats the Skull Devil but sustains severe injuries. In a moment of empathy, Weaver and Conrad witness Kong’s vulnerability and decide not to interfere with his territory any further.
The film concludes with the survivors rescued from the island. During the end credits, it is hinted that Kong is not the only giant creature in the world, setting the stage for future installments in the shared MonsterVerse.
“Kong: Skull Island” was praised for its action sequences, visual effects, and the introduction of Kong in a new cinematic universe that would later include Godzilla in “Godzilla: King of the Monsters” and the upcoming “Godzilla vs. Kong.”