10 Sci-Fi Movies Critics Were Way Too Harsh On

King Kong is undoubtedly one of Hollywood's most timeless properties, and a lot of that has to do with the original 1933 classic. A groundbreaking monster movie in terms of special effects, it unwittingly launched a franchise that would consist of multiple remakes and spin-offs, ensuring that Kong is just as relevant almost 100 years later.

The first of those remakes, however, wasn't all that well-received. Released in 1976, it starred Jeff Bridges, Charles Grodin and introduced the world to the iconic Jessica Lange, but some critics didn't take too kindly to the more tongue-in-cheek campy tone while others weren't fussed about some of the changes it made to the story.

In retrospect, it feels like the hate directed at Kong '76 is more than a little unwarranted to be honest. Is it as timeless as the original? No, because it's very much a product of its time - but it's still a very entertaining one with a lot to love about it.

For starters, instead of just rehashing the same story, it was brave enough to try something different. It still paid tribute to the original while also updating it for a modern audience and, for the most part, it pulled it off. Moreover, the special effects were pretty cutting edge at the time and Rick Baker's incredible make-up just doesn't receive the attention it deserves. And the score (by the late, great John Barry) was absolutely stunning.