If fans had trouble with the Japanese versions, they likely swore the series off completely after this. You'll find few people who will argue for this camp classic, a direct sequel to the 1976 remake. Kong has survived his less than graceful fall from the World Trade Center 10 years ago, and is now in a deep coma. An artificial heart is created to revive Kong, and at the same time, a female specimen is discovered by an explorer. Though separated by over a mile, the revived Kong picks up the female's scent and escapes into the forest with her.
The new couple romps around the forest in a flirting sequence, until the female is re-captured. Kong, now seeking revenge, begins destroying troops until he finds his mate, who we learn is now pregnant. The battle between Kong and the military rages as the female provides a baby for Kong to see in his final moments.
No one is sure why this film was green lighted. The hype from the '76 had subsided, and there was little need for a sequel. Possible reasons include a new Godzilla film appearing a year before, rather successfully as well. John Guillermin returns as the director, though the cast and special effects crew are all new. Its ties to the first film are meager at best.
Mighty Joe Young (1998)
This $49 million remake resurrects the story of Jill Young (Charlize Theron) and her giant gorilla. The set up remains mostly the same, save for a rather brutal killing of baby Joe's parents in the opening act. The action is friendly, tame, and heart warming. Joe still goes on the expected rampage, but does so with charm that's appropriate for the family. Both Ray Harryhausen and Terry Moore are awarded cameos.
That would remain the final piece of the Kong puzzle. Peter Jackson's upcoming period remake for 2005 is generating press, and there's still hope. The big ape may have fallen (multiple times), but he keeps getting up to entertain audiences.