The Last Line of Iconic Films: Unveiling the Myth and Truth Behind 'Beauty Killed the Beast'

Did 'Beauty' really kill the 'Beast'? This question has long been debated among movie enthusiasts, particularly in relation to the masterpiece King Kong (1933) and its famous final line. While many continue to believe that Beauty was the cause of Kong's demise, the truth is far more fascinating and grounded in reality.

The Origin of the Myth - 'Beauty Killed the Beast'

The iconic line from King Kong that has become a hallmark of movie-memorabilia is, 'Oh no, it wasn’t the airplanes. It was Beauty that killed the beast.' This phrase encapsulates the film's tragic and poignant resolution, as the giant ape meets his end atop the Empire State Building. However, this famous line has often been misinterpreted, leading to the myth that beauty was responsible for Kong's downfall.

Unraveling the Truth - The Role of Airplanes

According to Terry Pratchett, in his novel Moving Pictures, the true cause of Kong's demise was far more straightforward. Pratchett suggested that the line, 'No - it wasn’t. It was splatting into the ground like that,' reflects the reality of Kong's fate. This physical reality is tragically forgotten in the theatrical masterpiece's final moments, where the airplanes' attacks are attributed to a symbolic representation of beauty's destructive power.

Classic Moments in Film - King Kong: The 30 Best Closing Lines

The memorable last line from King Kong is just one example of great film endings that have transfixed audiences for decades. In fact, King Kong, widely considered one of the greatest films ever made, is often cited as one of the best films for its closing line. Here are a few more renowned film endings, with a focus on those that echo 'Beauty killed the beast':

Rosebud: In Orson Welles' Citizen Kane (1941), the now iconic scene where Charles Foster Kane’s last word is "Rosebud," which is then set alight, creates a powerful impact on the viewer. Charles Foster Kane: This powerful line from the same movie, 'Rosebud,' symbolizes a man's ultimate moments of introspection and regret. Brando's Last Whisper: Marlon Brando's famous final line in The Godfather (1972), 'I'm beginning to believe I'll never get out of here alive,' encapsulates the gravity of the film's final moments.

These lines, among others, stand as testament to how much a great closing line can impact the overall narrative and lasting impression of a film. 'Beauty killed the beast' in King Kong is a prime example of the film's enduring legacy and its ability to provoke deep reflections on beauty, tragedy, and the human condition.

Comparative Analysis - 2005's King Kong

The 2005 remake of King Kong featured a similar last line, this time delivered by Jack Black's character to his 1933 counterpart. While the 1933 original emphasized the dramatic contrast between beauty and destruction, the 2005 version's line retains the same emotional impact but in a modern context. Both versions highlight the enduring fascination with what truly caused Kong's fall and death, inviting viewers to contemplate the true nature of beauty and its ultimate consequences.

In conclusion, the myth of 'Beauty killed the beast' in King Kong obscures the reality of Kong's fate, which was most likely brought to an end by the relentless attacks of air forces. This understanding not only clarifies the film's events but also provides a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the narrative. Whether you are a fan of classic cinema or a budding historian of film endings, delving into the nuances of these memorable lines can enrich your cinematic experience and appreciation.