Failed attempt by Universal and director Peter Jackson to remake the 1933 classic. This version, unlike the realized 1976 remake, would have remained faithful to the original source. It was to be shot in New Zealand (much like Jackson’s later LORD OF THE RINGS trilogy). However, Universal cancelled the project due to perceived pressure of competing with GODZILLA and MIGHTY JOE YOUNG remakes from other companies.

After Jackson's success with the LORD OF THE RINGS, he returned to the idea of making a KONG film, and a new project was launched. The revised film opened December 16, 2005.