This Modern Library edition of a true colossus among adventure stories
is reprinted from the original 1932 novelization of the movie script,
and includes a Preface by Mark Cotta Vaz, the preeminent biographer of
Merian C. Cooper, producer of the original 1933 classic film.
Introduction by Greg Bear
Preface by Mark Cotta Vaz
The giant prehistoric gorilla King Kong is one of the most recognized
images in our culture. So great is the mighty Kong's hold on the popular
imagination that his story-a gripping yarn of man versus nature, coupled
with a fantastical update of the Beauty and the Beast legend-has been
thrice made into a motion picture (most recently in 2005) and referenced
endlessly in every medium, from books to prime-time sitcoms.
Beneath King Kong's cultural significance, however, is a tense and
surprisingly tender story. One cannot help but be frightened by Kong's
uncontrollable fury, be saddened over the giant's capture, mistreatment,
and exploitation by venal showmen, or sympathize with the beast's
ill-fated affection for the down-on-her-luck starlet Ann Darrow.
This Modern Library edition of a true colossus among adventure stories
is reprinted from the original 1932 novelization of the movie script,
and includes a Preface by Mark Cotta Vaz, the preeminent biographer of
Merian C. Cooper, producer of the original 1933 classic film.
