King Kong and the Chrysler Building: The Untold Story of a Misplaced Titan

King Kong is an iconic and timeless character, frequently associated with legendary buildings like the Empire State Building and the World Trade Center. However, in the 2005 remake of the 1976 King Kong, this colossal beast was originally destined to climb a different towering structure. The original plan was for King Kong to ascend the Chrysler Building—a feat that would have been equally monumental and less photographed than his climb on the Empire State Building or the World Trade Center.

Origins of the Change

In 1933 and 2005, King Kong’s climb was associated with the Empire State Building and the World Trade Center, respectively. But in the 1976 remake, the beast’s planned destination was a different architectural icon: the Chrysler Building. This decision was based on a series of unfortunate events that altered the plans during the construction process.

The Chrysler Building: A Close Call

The idea of King Kong climbing the Chrysler Building would have been a compelling choice, especially considering the building's unique architectural features. Originally slated to become the tallest building in the world, the Chrysler Building's plans were to rise above the Empire State Building. However, this was not meant to be. During construction, the Empire State Building () added two floors and a spire, making it the tallest structure in the world at the time, and relegating the Chrysler Building to second place.

The Final Script Alteration

Rather than witnessing King Kong’s perilous ascent, the final script called for a different end to the story. The last scene featured a dramatic and intimate view of King Kong at the top of the Chrysler Building, where he was struck by lightning, a fate that took the colossal beast’s life. This version would have showcased a unique and less well-known aspect of New York City’s architecture, highlighting the Chrysler Building's design and majesty.

Post-Empire State Building Openings

Unfortunately, when they were writing the script for the 1976 King Kong remake, there was a delay in the Empire State Building's opening. This delay disrupted their plans, and before they could fully integrate the Empire State Building into their storyline, the script had already been largely completed. Thus, the original ending of King Kong's climb on the Chrysler Building was lost, and the final scene featured the lighting strike instead.

Conclusion

While the 2005 King Kong inherited the Empire State Building as the setting, the original plan for the 1976 remake involved a different architectural marvel, the Chrysler Building. Had the Empire State Building not reached its final elevations, King Kong’s story might have taken on a unique spin, promoting the Chrysler Building as a symbol of architectural prowess and the stuff of legend alongside its more famous sibling.

Understanding the historical context of film production and the interconnectedness of cinema and New York City architecture can provide a richer appreciation of the 1976 and 2005 King Kong releases. The Chrysler Building, much like the Empire State Building, remains a testament to architectural innovation and the enduring appeal of stories told against its backdrop.