Twenty years ago today, King Kong (2005) roared to life at its world premiere in New York City, marking a major cinematic moment for fans and filmmakers alike. The red-carpet event gathered director Peter Jackson, the principal cast, and key crew members who helped bring the legendary giant ape back to the big screen with groundbreaking visual effects. One of the highlights of the night was the display of a full life-sized Kong prop created for the film, giving attendees an up-close look at the immense detail behind the production.
Adding to the excitement, the original King Kong himself—represented through an iconic prop suit preserved by historian and collector Bob Burns—made a special appearance. This nod to the 1933 classic connected the past and present, honoring the enduring legacy of cinema’s most famous movie monster. The premiere celebrated not just a film, but a timeless character reborn for a new generation.
