Kong post mortem.

The industry guesses were "based on ignorance," he added, since there are few precedents for a film like "King Kong," which is neither part of a franchise nor based on a literary property.

One wonders if Marc Shmuger, Vice chairman of Universal, is even cognizant of what business he's working in. A remake, taking little creative effort, is par for the industry over the past few years. It's hard to imagine just what would qualify as a precedent if that doesn't. The budget isn't a consideration, with other bank busters abounding this year doing well.

What went wrong.

• As critics have noted, this is not a film for children. Word of mouth is good, word of mouth that says keep your kids away from this film is not.
• Too long. What were you guys thinking? Did the last 40 years of cinema teach you nothing?
• Special effects are no replacement for a good story.
• A high profile director, even a very talented one, is no replacement for a good story.
• There's no such thing as a sure bet, so stop being so liberal with budgets. This fiasco would hurt a heck of a lot less if studios showed some fiscal responsibility.
• Never, under any circumstances, believe your own hype.
• Don't remake a movie just because you can (that goes for you too, Steven.)
  

What went right.

• It'll probably break even with costs when it hits DVD.
• It's probably a good flick, just not stellar.

This blog didn't exist until right now, so I can't claim credit for calling this failure in advance. I did, but it's not here so it doesn't count. I'll check the slate of upcoming films and see where the industry is headed.