Skull Island Review: Based on the Warner Bros.’ Monsterverse series, the show is written, created, directed and executive produced by Brian Duffield alongside Jacob Robinson, Brad Graeber, Jen Chambers and Thomas Tull. The Netflix Original series is co-produced by Legendary Television and Tractor Pants and is animated by Powerhouse Animation.
An ensemble of talented actors voices various characters, such as Nicolas Cantu as Charlie, Mae Whitman as Annie, Darren Barnett as Mike, Benjamin Bratt as Cap, Betty Gilpin as Irene, Phil LaMarr as Sam and Fryda Wolff as an island girl. Jason Lazarus and Joseph Trapanese give the music for the series. With a total of 8 episodes, the runtime will be approximately 20-25 minutes each.
-Skull Island Review Contains No Spoilers-
Expectations for this King Kong animated series were quite high, but does it meet them? The story starts as it usually does, with a crew of sailors suddenly getting attacked by a sea monster which leads them to a stranded island. After coming across various monsters constantly trying to devour them, they realise that it is indeed the infamous skull island. Right from the beginning, one can assume how the story will move forward.
There is little to no attempt to offer a different variation of the story or an unexpected twist. From overused tropes to backstories, the show is quite uninteresting. The relationship between the main protagonist Charlie and his father, Cap, is a tad bit complicated, yet it is nothing one has not seen before. However, Charlie and Mike’s friendship is endearing, and their silly arguments can be enjoyable at times. The writing remains weak, nevertheless, with unfinished subplots and negligible character growth.
Although many majestic and unique creatures are shown, there is very less screen time for Kong. The humungous ape only appears in the last few episodes to merely be used as a prop for the main storyline. In short flashback scenes, we are given a backstory for Annie and Kong, which provides the audience with some insight into their motives and intentions. Regardless, the repeated plotline is unable to pique our interest as the story follows a predictable path.
Additionally, the complex relations between the characters were not explored in the slightest. It is merely brushed over when opinions clash, or when they arrive at crossroads. When met with an argument, they are either interrupted by a dangerous animal or they quickly forget about the situation. The theories about the island and how it is established also offer no explanation, leaving behind multiple losses threads.
The series uses 2D animation, which is a lost art at current times since the takeover of CGI. However, visually the show does not offer anything extraordinary. The animation remains ordinary that will definitely take you back to the 2000s. The beauty of the majestic creatures could not come through due to the inadequacy of the animation department, which was highly disappointing. However, there were a few wide camera angles that enhanced the viewing experience.
The voice cast of the show did an adequate job of bringing life to the characters. It is safe to say that the best thing about the show are the actor’s portrayal of the characters and including their own personal touch to make them engaging and exciting. But even they could not salvage the subpar storyline and visuals.
Skull Island Review: Final Thoughts
The repeated storyline remained unexciting and downright boring. If you are familiar with the story of King Kong, you will remain unsurprised throughout at how the storyline moves forward. Apart from the monotonous plot, the animation is also upsetting as it remained unable to display the wonderful creatures in their full glory. Moreover, the unsatisfactory climatic fight between Kong and the sea monster will leave you frustrated.
Skull Island is now streaming on Netflix. Did you watch the series yet? Let us know in the comments below!