Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes
“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is a breathtaking continuation of its predecessor, evolving deeper into the reimagined world established in the previous trilogy. Caesar’s (the venerable leader whose memory still looms large over this burgeoning saga) legacy expands in a manner that draws parallels to our very own and how his actions are used for both noble and nefarious purposes. Situated approximately three centuries after the tumultuous events of “War for the Planet of the Apes,” this standalone entry serves as both a homage to its predecessors and a bold new beginning for the franchise.
The Story
Director Wes Ball breathes new life into this world set several generations in the future following Caesar’s reign, in which apes are the dominant species living harmoniously and humans have been reduced to living in the shadows. As a new tyrannical ape leader builds his empire, one young ape undertakes a harrowing journey that will cause him to question all that he has known about the past and make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike.
The Characters
In the absence of Caesar, Noa (Owen Teague) assumes the central role, shouldering the responsibility of ushering in a new era. Noa’s character is meticulously crafted, exhibiting a nuanced balance of reverence for Caesar’s principles and a bold willingness to question and re-evaluate them. Teague’s multifaceted portrayal of Noa is crucial to the narrative, as his reinterpretation of Caesar’s seminal mantra – modifying the phrase from “Apes together strong” to “No, together strong,” with humanity incorporated – establishes the philosophical, biblical, and ideological foundation for the trilogy’s future development.
The World-Building
As a lifelong fan and enthusiast of the Planet of the Apes franchise, I have always been fascinated by its recent modern trilogy, helmed by Rupert Wyatt (Rise) and Matt Reeves (Dawn/War). My admiration for Dawn of the Planet of the Apes specifically is particularly noteworthy, making it a daunting task for any subsequent director to follow in their footsteps. Wes Ball, known for his work on the Maze Runner trilogy, was announced to take the reins of the franchise. Initially, I adopted a cautious approach, eager to witness his take on the series. With “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” Ball has not only met but exceeded my expectations, delivering a cinematic coming-of-age journey that transcends.
The Visuals
“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is a stunning visual achievement, showcasing WETA’s unparalleled mastery of digital effects. The team’s impressive craftsmanship effortlessly goes beyond the boundaries of CGI, rendering the apes as photo-realistic as possible, as these captivating characters will leave you fully invested in their world. The meticulous attention to detail in their movement, facial expressions, lip movements, and fur is particularly noteworthy thanks to the visual effects artists and the actors who embody and perform as these characters through motion/performance capture, adding to the overall sense of authenticity and immersion.
The Conclusion
What sets “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” apart as a sequel is its innovative approach to the narrative of its predecessor. The film reimagines the original story as a deeply ingrained mythological framework, imbuing it with a sense of reverence and significance. The passage of time has erased the specific details of human history, leaving behind only remnants of decay and rebirth. However, when Noa is confronted with competing visions of the past and the world beyond his community, the void left by this forgotten history becomes a palpable character in its own right.
FINAL THOUGHTS
While the film is a visual feast for the eyes, it also has a substantial amount of heart, making it a complete cinematic experience. “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” left me yearning for more, eager to see where the story will take us next in this magnificent world. The film also resonated with me long after the credits rolled, which is a testament to the power of storytelling and visual artistry and a must-see for fans of the franchise.
FAQS
Q: Is the film a worthy continuation of the franchise?
A: Yes, the film is a breathtaking continuation of its predecessor, evolving deeper into the reimagined world established in the previous trilogy.
Q: What sets the film apart from its predecessors?
A: The film reimagines the original story as a deeply ingrained mythological framework, imbuing it with a sense of reverence and significance.
Q: How does the film handle the absence of Caesar?
A: The film introduces a new central character, Noa, who assumes the responsibility of ushering in a new era and evolving Caesar’s legacy.
Q: Is the film a visual feast?
A: Yes, the film is a stunning visual achievement, showcasing WETA’s unparalleled mastery of digital effects.
Q: Is the film a must-see for fans of the franchise?
A: Yes, the film is a must-see for fans of the franchise, offering a fresh take on the Planet of the Apes universe.