In the MonsterVerse films, Kong’s increased popularity over Godzilla can be attributed to a combination of factors related to storytelling, character development, and audience preferences, especially in the context of Kong: Skull Island (2017) and Godzilla vs. Kong (2021). Here are some key reasons for Kong’s rise in popularity:
- Emotional Connection and Character Development
Kong’s Human-Like Qualities: In Kong: Skull Island, Kong is depicted as a more emotionally complex character compared to Godzilla. While Godzilla is often portrayed as a force of nature or a more ambiguous character, Kong is given a backstory, personality, and emotional depth that allow audiences to connect with him. His relationship with the humans in Skull Island, particularly with characters like Brie Larson’s and Tom Hiddleston’s, builds empathy, and his fight against the skull crawlers presents him as a more relatable figure.
Kong’s Tragic Backstory: The MonsterVerse gives Kong a tragic backstory, with Kong being one of the last of his kind and the protector of Skull Island. This vulnerability makes him a sympathetic character, further engaging the audience. In contrast, Godzilla, while sometimes depicted as a protector, is often shown as a more detached, god-like figure whose motivations are not as fleshed out emotionally. - The Appeal of the Underdog
In Godzilla vs. Kong (2021), Kong is portrayed as the underdog, especially when compared to Godzilla, who is much larger and more powerful. People tend to root for the underdog, which helps Kong gain more favor, as audiences sympathize with him facing seemingly insurmountable odds. His struggle for survival, particularly against Godzilla, adds a layer of drama to the story. - Action and Visual Appeal
Kong’s Agile Fighting Style: Unlike Godzilla, whose fighting style is more brute force and atomic-powered, Kong’s agility and use of tools, like the axe in Godzilla vs. Kong, make him more dynamic in combat. His ability to physically engage with his opponents gives the action scenes a different kind of intensity and excitement, which many viewers found compelling.
More Screen Time in Recent Films: Kong has appeared more prominently in recent MonsterVerse films. While Godzilla’s screen time is primarily focused on his destructive nature, Kong’s films allow for a deeper exploration of his character and more personal moments. - Kong’s Connection to Human Characters
Kong’s relationship with human characters, especially in Kong: Skull Island and Godzilla vs. Kong, creates a more relatable narrative for the audience. His interactions with characters like Samuel L. Jackson’s Lieutenant Colonel Packard and Brie Larson’s Mason Weaver are pivotal in making Kong more relatable. In contrast, Godzilla is often depicted as an almost untouchable force of nature, and human interaction with him is limited or secondary. - Nostalgia and Cultural Impact
Kong has been an iconic character since his first appearance in 1933, and while Godzilla has also had a long legacy, Kong’s appeal has always been deeply embedded in popular culture, particularly in the West. Kong has often been portrayed as a misunderstood creature, and this theme resonates with audiences seeking emotional narratives. Godzilla, on the other hand, is more rooted in Japanese culture, and while incredibly popular, his presence is more associated with destruction and less with the personal, empathetic storylines that drive Kong’s character. - Storytelling in the Monsterverse
The MonsterVerse films have given Kong more of a story arc. From Kong: Skull Island, where he is portrayed as the king and protector of his island, to his role in Godzilla vs. Kong, where he is more directly involved in human affairs and has a specific purpose in the narrative, Kong’s journey is given more substance.
Godzilla vs. Kong provided a story where both monsters were given ample opportunity to shine, but Kong’s journey—from being a “king” of his island to fighting for survival against Godzilla and later teaming up to take down Mechagodzilla—offered audiences a more compelling character arc.
Conclusion:
Kong’s popularity in the MonsterVerse films can be seen as a combination of deeper character development, emotional connection with audiences, and his status as the underdog. While Godzilla remains a formidable figure, Kong’s relatability and dynamic action sequences have helped him gain favor in this specific cinematic universe. Both characters remain beloved in their own right, but Kong’s more humanized portrayal in recent films has contributed to his prominence in the MonsterVerse.