KING KONG
His very name inspires awe, horror, and, for some of the greatest masters of contemporary science fiction, a strong affection. Find out why in this special collector’s edition of the original 1932 novelization of Wallace and Cooper’s movie.
This Special Collector’s Edition of King Kong includes commentary by masters of science fiction Ray Bradbury, Ray Harryhausen, Orson Scott Card, Harlan Ellison, Larry Niven, Catherine Asaro, Jack Williamson, and Marc Zicree.
King Kong, taller than a five story building, capable of crushing airplanes with his bare hands, ruler of a lost empire of prehistoric monsters.
“Let’s go, Ann!” Denham commanded. “When I start to crank, look up slowly. Camera! Look up! Slowly, slowly. You are calm, you see nothing yet. Look higher. Higher. There! Now you see it. You are amazed. You can’t believe your own senses. Your eyes open wider. Wider. It’s horrible. But you are fascinated You can’t look away. You can’t move. What is it? You’re helpless, Ann! But you can’t scream! There’s your one hope. If you can scream! But you can’t. Your throat is paralyzed! Try to scream, Ann…if you didn’t see you could do it. Throw your arm across your eyes, Ann. And scream! Scream, Ann, for your life!”—from the book
Stefan Rudnicki treats this pulpy novelization of the original Kong film with respect, allowing listeners to appreciate on its own terms the familiar story of the giant ape found on a lost island and brought to its doom in New York City. Rudnicki's deep, craggy voice (a bit like Leonard Nimoy's, but deeper) and seriousness help one past the campy or dated parts. His voice doesn't vary much, but the differing characters come through clearly enough. The fifth disc contains commentaries by science fiction writers, movie people, and those who straddle both worlds. The best inform or enhance one's enjoyment, such as those by Ray Harryhausen and Harlan Ellison. W.M. 2006 Audie Award Finalist (c) AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine
