King Kong Arrives To China

Director Peter Jackson's 145-million-dollar remake of King Kong is expected to debut in mainland cinemas today. The third version stays true to the original plot while adding in many special effects. Our reporter Shanshan takes a detailed look at the film.

A film director and his crew on a visit to a mysterious island discover the existence of a legendary giant gorilla named Kong. Troubles come when the island natives capture the crew's leading lady as a sacrifice to the monster.

But it is the attention of the beautiful woman that soothes Kong long enough for him to be subdued by the explorers and brought back to New York, where his bleak future involves being put on display for humans' entertainment.

The film boasts an all-star cast including Adrien Brody, Jack Black and Naomi Watts and earns the New-Zealand director a bumper 20-million dollar paycheck. But money isn't the only thing that drew actor Jack Black to the film. The tale of the giant monkey King Kong has a special place in his heart.

"To me it's about what a nine-year-old boy imagines magic could be…"

In a departure from his usual roles, funny man Jack Black plays the over-zealous filmmaker who captures King Kong.

"I remember thinking to myself while I was watching 'Lord of the Rings'…And then I got the call from King Kong…"

Australian star Naomi Watts is lead actress, and did her ample share of screaming as did the heroines in the previous two versions.

"I did a lot of screaming in King Kong. I think I screamed a lot…"

King Kong has already grabbed more than $200 million in North America, and in Hong Kong it's also been the box office ruler for quite some time.

On the mainland, the film debuts in mid January, when many domestic films also rush to capture the Spring Festival film market. But given the attraction of the storyline and dazzling special effects, insiders are still confident the film's box office earnings in China are expected to surpass 100 million yuan.