Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes
James Brown
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes takes a daring leap forward in the sci-fi franchise, presenting a world where apes reign supreme 300 years after the events of War for the Planet of the Apes. This fresh narrative introduces a diverse ape society, each tribe upholding a unique facet of Caesar’s legacy, the revered leader from the previous films.
The heart of this chapter is Noa, a young chimpanzee brought to life with brilliance by Owen Teague (It, Bloodline). Noa’s journey is a compelling tale of self-discovery and survival as he navigates the intricate political landscape of the evolved ape world. His character, a reflection of Caesar’s spirit, is guided by a strong moral compass and an unwavering determination to unite ape-kind against emerging threats.
The film does a commendable job of intertwining action with deep philosophical questions about leadership, unity, and the use of power. The apes’ adherence to Caesar’s teachings, notably the axiom “ape not kill ape,” is tested in various ways, reflecting the challenges of upholding ideals against practical realities.
"The film does a commendable job of intertwining action with deep philosophical questions about leadership, unity, and the use of power."
Visually, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is a feast for the eyes. The advancements in CGI are striking, breathing life into the apes in a way that surpasses the emotional depth of previous films. The cinematography beautifully captures the lush landscapes and the intricate architecture of the apes’ settlements, creating a vibrant backdrop for the narrative.
While occasionally faltering under the weight of its ambitious plot, the script offers enough intrigue and character development to keep the audience engaged. Noa’s interactions with other key characters, including an old orangutan wise in the ways of the past and a militant gorilla with a divergent view of the future, are particularly compelling.
Director Wes Ball (The Maze Runner) maintains a delicate balance between paying homage to the earlier films and charting a new course for the franchise. While there are echoes of Caesar’s influence throughout the movie, Kingdom does not shy away from carving out its own identity with new lore and a fresh perspective on ape society.
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes delivers a powerful narrative that combines thrilling action with a thought-provoking exploration of complex themes. It is a worthy successor to the previous films and a promising foundation for future installments in this ever-evolving saga.
Final Thought
A visually stunning and thought-provoking film that introduces a new narrative in the franchise.