The Lost Spider Pit Sequence
The Lost Spider Pit Sequence

Movie spotlight

The Lost Spider Pit Sequence

2005
Movie
6 min
English

What the "spider-pit" sequence from the original King Kong (1933) probably looked like (the original sequence was cut out of the original movie because it was deemed "too gruesome" and was subsequently lost).

Insights

IMDb7.5/10
Director: Unknown (related to the original King Kong)Genres: Documentary, Short

Plot Summary

This short documentary explores the unearthed "Spider Pit Sequence" from the original 1933 film "King Kong." It features interviews with special effects artist Rick Baker and stop-motion legend Ray Harryhausen, discussing the significance and artistry of the deleted scene. The sequence itself, which showed Kong's victims being tormented and killed by giant spiders, was deemed too terrifying for audiences at the time and was ultimately cut.

Critical Reception

As a supplemental feature to a classic film, "The Lost Spider Pit Sequence" is highly regarded by film historians and fans for its insight into the filmmaking process and the lost cinematic artistry of early Hollywood. It offers a rare glimpse into a controversial and terrifying segment that was never intended to be seen.

What Reviewers Say

  • Offers a fascinating look at a lost piece of cinematic history.

  • Provides valuable context and commentary from special effects legends.

  • Highlights the bravery and terror of early filmmaking.

Google audience: Audience reception is generally very positive among those who have seen it, appreciating its historical value and the insights into the original "King Kong" production.

Awards & Accolades

None notable (primarily released as a bonus feature)

Fun Fact

The "Spider Pit Sequence" was cut from the original 1933 release of "King Kong" because it was considered too frightening for audiences, and the footage was thought lost for decades until its rediscovery.

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