Many years after Caesar’s reign, a young ape goes on a journey that will lead him to question everything he’s been taught about the past and make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike.
I thought the story of the Planet of the Apes had reached its epic conclusion with “War for the Planet of the Apes.” But director Wes Ball, known for his work on “The Maze Runner” trilogy, has taken the reins and breathed new life into the franchise with “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.”
The film takes place several generations after Caesar’s death, the legendary leader who changed the course of ape and human history. A new clan of primates, descendants of Caesar’s followers, live in peace in the Oasis he led them to. But the world is vastly different now. Humans have regressed into a feral state, while apes have continued to evolve and thrive.
The story follows Noa (Owen Teague), a curious and brave young chimpanzee who discovers the existence of another ape clan across the city. This clan is ruled by the powerful and ruthless Proximus Caesar (Kevin Durand), who has twisted Caesar’s teachings to enslave other ape clans and hoard the dangerous technologies of the lost human world. When Noa’s clan is attacked, he embarks on a perilous journey to rescue his family and uncover the truth about Proximus Caesar’s reign.
Along the way, Noa forms unexpected alliances with Raka (Peter Macon), a wise and solitary orangutan, and Mae (Freya Allan), a human woman with a remarkable ability to speak. Mae is driven by a mission to prevent Proximus Caesar from gaining control of a hidden human bunker that possesses a vast repository of knowledge and technology that could tip the balance of power forever. As Noa navigates the treacherous landscape of ape politics and ancient human secrets, he must confront the ultimate question: where does his true loyalty lie?
“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is a thrilling new chapter in the franchise, full of heart-pounding action and profound emotional depth. The film introduces a fresh cast of complex characters while honoring the legacy of the previous trilogy. With its groundbreaking visual effects and thought-provoking themes, it sets the stage for an exciting new trilogy that will explore the next generation of apes and humans as they forge their paths in a changed world.
The CGI in the film is stunning, with the apes rendered in astonishing detail and realism. The world-building is meticulous and immersive, drawing the viewer into its richly textured universe. Even fans of the original Charlton Heston films will find themselves captivated by the rebooted series and eagerly anticipating the future of this saga.
While the film is largely focused on setting the stage for a new trilogy, it does feature a cameo from William H. Macy as Mae’s human counterpart. His character serves as a poignant reminder of the lost world of humans and the long journey they still have ahead.
The ending of “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is both a satisfying conclusion to Noa’s initial quest and a tantalizing glimpse into the possibilities of the future. As the apes and humans stand on the precipice of a new era, audiences are left eagerly wondering what lies ahead for these beloved characters and the world they inhabit. With its masterful storytelling and unforgettable characters, “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is a must-see for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.
In Theaters Friday, May 10th
