I'm a big fan of all the planet of the apes, and they nailed this one. Usually when they start milking series like this, they come out bad, but with the amazing cinematography and great acting, it more than succeeded. Some movies just deserve to be watched on a big screen, and this is one of them. The movie had me intrigued, and interested in the storyline unlike a lot of other movies I've seen this year. I'm looking forward to what they will come up with after this, and I can assure you that I will be watching no matter what. Go grab a popcorn and enjoy the phenomenal graphics this movies has to offer! Godspeed.
285 Reviews
Not as good as I hoped
druss44121-110 May 2024
Really wanted to like this. The previous trilogy is excellent, and I'd even say it's one of the best genre trilogies ever made (LOTR is #1, of course). Dawn is especially a masterpiece of intelligent sci-fi adventure spectacle, a movie that is both exciting and intelligent. The entire trilogy is emotionally engaging and Caesar is an incredible lead.
Unfortunately, this film doesn't have any characters as good as Caesar. In fact, it feels like a lesser retread of the same ideas and themes of the previous trilogy. There's nothing really new here. You've already seen a better version of this movie before.
With that said, let me get the good out of the way first. The cinematography is excellent. The visual effects are still incredible, both as a technical and artistic achievement. The first 45 minutes of the film are really solid. There's a lot of good visual storytelling in the opening act.
However, once we meet the main antagonist, things kinda fall apart. The pacing is off. Some scenes drag, while major character moments feel rushed. There's a friction between two major characters that doesn't feel earned, especially since the characters kinda come to an understanding, and then a few scenes later they are butting heads. What could and should have been an interesting dynamic feels incomplete, like entire scenes were cut out.
The main antagonist could have been really cool. The idea of a cult-like warlord obsessed with human history, there's so much they could have done with that idea. But he simply doesn't have enough scenes to really make him anything more than Koba Part II. And Koba had better motivations and more complexity. None of the characters here are as well written as the previous trilogy and the last 10 minutes feel more like a TV finale than a movie.
Oh, and the music score is pretty generic and forgettable. Really disappointing, because I love the music from the other movies. Caesar's theme is so good. Nothing here comes close.
Anyway... Kingdom is far from terrible, but to quote another major franchise with a movie coming out May 2024: "Mediocre!"
Unfortunately, this film doesn't have any characters as good as Caesar. In fact, it feels like a lesser retread of the same ideas and themes of the previous trilogy. There's nothing really new here. You've already seen a better version of this movie before.
With that said, let me get the good out of the way first. The cinematography is excellent. The visual effects are still incredible, both as a technical and artistic achievement. The first 45 minutes of the film are really solid. There's a lot of good visual storytelling in the opening act.
However, once we meet the main antagonist, things kinda fall apart. The pacing is off. Some scenes drag, while major character moments feel rushed. There's a friction between two major characters that doesn't feel earned, especially since the characters kinda come to an understanding, and then a few scenes later they are butting heads. What could and should have been an interesting dynamic feels incomplete, like entire scenes were cut out.
The main antagonist could have been really cool. The idea of a cult-like warlord obsessed with human history, there's so much they could have done with that idea. But he simply doesn't have enough scenes to really make him anything more than Koba Part II. And Koba had better motivations and more complexity. None of the characters here are as well written as the previous trilogy and the last 10 minutes feel more like a TV finale than a movie.
Oh, and the music score is pretty generic and forgettable. Really disappointing, because I love the music from the other movies. Caesar's theme is so good. Nothing here comes close.
Anyway... Kingdom is far from terrible, but to quote another major franchise with a movie coming out May 2024: "Mediocre!"
Deeper and nuanced exploration of original themes
deason9 May 2024
This movie is just about a worthy successor to the original set of movies from the 20th century.
Like them, it uses state of the art special effects to wittily investigate contemporary questions of ethics, humanity, status and prejudice while distracting the popcorn crowd with an engrossing adventure of exploration, captivity and escape in a make-believe world that, in what is a strong science fiction tradition, is recognisably a few "what if?"'s away from our own.
Unlike the original five movies, where each sequel was originally unplanned, this is clearly a new "chapter one", taking the time to introduce some elements that will feature in the upcoming sequels.
Over and over it evokes the sense of wonder of the original handful, with plenty of specific visual, musical and thematic evocations. There are reognisable influences from the 1970s TV show and even some of the Apes comic book stories of that era. But, it is also unmistakably a post-Lord of the Rings epic, the influence showing up in how various action and travel sequences have been shot.
While there is not nearly so much sly humour as the originals, the socio-historic themes are more nuanced, closer to the surface and harder to miss. Questions of defining civilisation in terms of laws are answered in a way that will ultimately resonate with modern audiences; a layered and varied spectrum of responses to enslavement is shown; and as expected, anti-monarchist revolutions will always play well in the USA.
Non-Americans may roll their eyes a little at the very earnest equating of eagles with capital-L Liberty (one can't imagine Charlton Heston's sardonic and cynical George Taylor from the 1968 movie being very impressed), but on the plus side, Peter Macon's wonderful Raka just about matches the delightful charm of Kim Hunter's Zira and Roddy McDowell's Cornelius from the originals. Owen Teague also does a good job as Noa.
The various fight scenes are competent without being overly thrilling (the most exciting action is a cornfield chase vaguely inspired by the original 1968 film), but the deeper probing into the various sub-texts and a fine selection of minor characters keeps the interest levels up. One could pick nits about some of the physics shown in the last twenty minutes, but it's hardly the first Hollywood film to sacrifice strict logic for spectacle and it surely won't be the last.
Overall, this does a good job of working on several levels and should appeal to a good range of audiences.
Like them, it uses state of the art special effects to wittily investigate contemporary questions of ethics, humanity, status and prejudice while distracting the popcorn crowd with an engrossing adventure of exploration, captivity and escape in a make-believe world that, in what is a strong science fiction tradition, is recognisably a few "what if?"'s away from our own.
Unlike the original five movies, where each sequel was originally unplanned, this is clearly a new "chapter one", taking the time to introduce some elements that will feature in the upcoming sequels.
Over and over it evokes the sense of wonder of the original handful, with plenty of specific visual, musical and thematic evocations. There are reognisable influences from the 1970s TV show and even some of the Apes comic book stories of that era. But, it is also unmistakably a post-Lord of the Rings epic, the influence showing up in how various action and travel sequences have been shot.
While there is not nearly so much sly humour as the originals, the socio-historic themes are more nuanced, closer to the surface and harder to miss. Questions of defining civilisation in terms of laws are answered in a way that will ultimately resonate with modern audiences; a layered and varied spectrum of responses to enslavement is shown; and as expected, anti-monarchist revolutions will always play well in the USA.
Non-Americans may roll their eyes a little at the very earnest equating of eagles with capital-L Liberty (one can't imagine Charlton Heston's sardonic and cynical George Taylor from the 1968 movie being very impressed), but on the plus side, Peter Macon's wonderful Raka just about matches the delightful charm of Kim Hunter's Zira and Roddy McDowell's Cornelius from the originals. Owen Teague also does a good job as Noa.
The various fight scenes are competent without being overly thrilling (the most exciting action is a cornfield chase vaguely inspired by the original 1968 film), but the deeper probing into the various sub-texts and a fine selection of minor characters keeps the interest levels up. One could pick nits about some of the physics shown in the last twenty minutes, but it's hardly the first Hollywood film to sacrifice strict logic for spectacle and it surely won't be the last.
Overall, this does a good job of working on several levels and should appeal to a good range of audiences.
Basic hero's journey in a bland entry to a great franchise.
bsabillon11 May 2024
I'm bummed I didn't love this. The visuals are as good as ever, both from cinematography to cgi it just looks fantastic. Unfortunately it falls flat mostly everywhere else. A classic hero's journey through the remnants of this universe's apocalyptic landscape is a great idea, but the journey itself is just devoid of sauce. It's bland, and often just feels like we're watching scenes checking off boxes from an adventure story. Like a movie coming out of an assembly line. Character motivations are unclear, the mc's emotional arc is unclear, and overall every idea just doesn't feel fleshed out, even when they almost have a good one. How Caesar's legacy is handled in this movie is almost interesting, but again it is not fleshed out. I will say the movie starts strong, I didn't really start turning on it til I realized how bored I was about halfway through. And that's before the third act really just frustrated me. Almost feels like we're seeing the first draft of a potentially great movie. Still excited to see where the franchise goes, but this new set of movies is off to a rough start for me.
A New Start...
Nathandima8 May 2024
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is an absolute gem in the film world! It takes you on an incredible journey filled with thrilling action sequences, heartfelt moments, and thought-provoking themes. The storytelling is top-notch, weaving together a compelling narrative that keeps you glued to the screen from start to finish.
What sets this movie apart is its remarkable attention to detail in creating the ape civilization. The visual effects are nothing short of spectacular, bringing to life a world where apes rule with stunning realism. From the lush landscapes to the intricate ape society, every aspect feels meticulously crafted and immersive.
But beyond the spectacle, "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" delves into deeper themes, exploring complex issues like power dynamics, societal structure, and the moral dilemmas that arise when different species coexist. It's a movie that not only entertains but also sparks meaningful conversations long after the credits roll.
The performances are stellar across the board, with the cast fully embracing their roles and bringing depth to their characters. Whether it's the charismatic ape leader or the human protagonists fighting for survival, each actor delivers a memorable performance that adds layers to the story.
What sets this movie apart is its remarkable attention to detail in creating the ape civilization. The visual effects are nothing short of spectacular, bringing to life a world where apes rule with stunning realism. From the lush landscapes to the intricate ape society, every aspect feels meticulously crafted and immersive.
But beyond the spectacle, "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" delves into deeper themes, exploring complex issues like power dynamics, societal structure, and the moral dilemmas that arise when different species coexist. It's a movie that not only entertains but also sparks meaningful conversations long after the credits roll.
The performances are stellar across the board, with the cast fully embracing their roles and bringing depth to their characters. Whether it's the charismatic ape leader or the human protagonists fighting for survival, each actor delivers a memorable performance that adds layers to the story.
Doesn't hold a candle to the other planet of the apes films
thomasgouldsbrough10 May 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes isn't a bad film, nowhere near as impressive as the other films in the franchise. Whereas Rise and Dawn had really interesting explorations of the human condition, and presenting human nature as being both inherently selfish and inherently altruistic in an engaging manner, Kingdom fails to present human characters of much substance. The female lead lacks depth, she's just inherently selfish throughout the entire film, even as going so far as to use Noa to get the satellite link.
The opening to the film, after the egg scene which was very strong, was a little weak. Caeser strives incrediblely hard to find his oasis, and yet it gets destroyed within the first 15 minutes of the film, in about 5 minutes? It effectively retconned the last film, Caeser's sacrifice was for nothing.
The ending is quite good. By introducing the concept of the human survivors, it makes for an interesting way to introduce a new trilogy. Kingdom isn't necessarily a bad film, but nowhere near as impressive as the complexity of Rise and Dawn, or even the original Planet of the Apes and Beneath the planet of the apes.
The opening to the film, after the egg scene which was very strong, was a little weak. Caeser strives incrediblely hard to find his oasis, and yet it gets destroyed within the first 15 minutes of the film, in about 5 minutes? It effectively retconned the last film, Caeser's sacrifice was for nothing.
The ending is quite good. By introducing the concept of the human survivors, it makes for an interesting way to introduce a new trilogy. Kingdom isn't necessarily a bad film, but nowhere near as impressive as the complexity of Rise and Dawn, or even the original Planet of the Apes and Beneath the planet of the apes.
Sure, a little slow, but nicely done!!
dinomadaan9 May 2024
Greetings from OppositeofColumbus. Like many, I thought the trilogy wrapped up years ago. So when I heard of the next movie, my first reaction was - why? While I liked the trilogy, I didn't think they had been quite the blockbusters to spawn another trilogy, and they had a sombre tone. Nevertheless intrigued, I went for the early screening not having even watched a trailer or read anything about it.
First off, watch it on whichever premium format you can. The CGI is really well done from apes emoting to the dramatic terrains.
I liked that the hero was a little diffident at first but grew with the story. Sure we've seen it a thousand times, but it was still an identifiable journey.
The ideology splits were shown well, the action sequences were effective and the shades of characters kept me interested. Sure it left a few questions hanging, but I guess those are for the sequel(s).
Pacing did feel slow at times but I like that personally better than nonstop effects and explosions. Mae was the more intriguing character, with Noa's arc (see what I did there) being a more predictable one. If you let yourself go on the journey, I think you'll enjoy it. No huge surprises in the story though - you'll know if you're gonna like it or not pretty much in the first act. Have fun!
First off, watch it on whichever premium format you can. The CGI is really well done from apes emoting to the dramatic terrains.
I liked that the hero was a little diffident at first but grew with the story. Sure we've seen it a thousand times, but it was still an identifiable journey.
The ideology splits were shown well, the action sequences were effective and the shades of characters kept me interested. Sure it left a few questions hanging, but I guess those are for the sequel(s).
Pacing did feel slow at times but I like that personally better than nonstop effects and explosions. Mae was the more intriguing character, with Noa's arc (see what I did there) being a more predictable one. If you let yourself go on the journey, I think you'll enjoy it. No huge surprises in the story though - you'll know if you're gonna like it or not pretty much in the first act. Have fun!
Can we get an editor for this movie?
brianmcd1-355-27226312 May 2024
Are there any directors left that have watched a Spielberg movie so they can see how to pace an action adventure movie? Very few movies are actually so well written, acted and directed as to warrant a 2:30+ hr run time. This was not one of them. But with some proper editing, you could make a tight 2:10 movie that keeps things moving along.
The story wasnt bad. The characters werent bad. The acting was good enough. They just took a very long time to get to anything. Then the action picks up for a bit, things get good, it gets exciting and you get another long dull 15-20 min segment. A good editor would bring those segments down to 5-10 min and keep the movie rolling along.
The story wasnt bad. The characters werent bad. The acting was good enough. They just took a very long time to get to anything. Then the action picks up for a bit, things get good, it gets exciting and you get another long dull 15-20 min segment. A good editor would bring those segments down to 5-10 min and keep the movie rolling along.
A great start to a new trilogy
Isak7778 May 2024
A great follow up to the last trilogy. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes was my most anticipated film of 2024 and honestly, it's my favorite film of 2024. Not the worst from the Apes franchise but I'll need to rewatch it to decide which one is the best one.
I don't really think you need to see the prequels to see this one. Beautiful cinematography and amazing work on VFX. The acting is great too!
The film is meant to be seen on a big screen so I would recommend Imax.
I hope this film won't flop because it would be a shame.
I'm genuinely happy I got to see this one in a cinema because I love the prequels and this is a film that really is made for cinema.
I can't wait for the next chapter of the newest Planet Of The Apes trilogy.
I don't really think you need to see the prequels to see this one. Beautiful cinematography and amazing work on VFX. The acting is great too!
The film is meant to be seen on a big screen so I would recommend Imax.
I hope this film won't flop because it would be a shame.
I'm genuinely happy I got to see this one in a cinema because I love the prequels and this is a film that really is made for cinema.
I can't wait for the next chapter of the newest Planet Of The Apes trilogy.
Sequel is probably gonna be titled "empire of the planet of the apes"
AfricanBro10 May 2024
I was waiting just to hear Proximus scream 'WHAT A WONDERFUL DAY!' from all the times I heard the trailer playing at the theatre. I really liked how the franchise once again showcases the humanity of the apes, like the touching funeral scene. It had breathtaking scenery throughout, especially the transformation of metropolitan cities into forests. I found it interesting how they introduced pets, a bird is an ape's best friend, essentially. I liked that we exploring their customs in the first act of the movie.
While the film's length and the extensive world-building sometimes made it feel a bit slow, every scene served a purpose in the end, especially considering this's setting the stage for a new era in the Planet of the Apes movies. We get to see how the environment, the apes and the humans have evolved. I liked how the movie paid homage to Caesar without directly continuing his story; his legacy felt respectfully acknowledged. He had a good run and his story was complete.
The premise of the movie, particularly the portrayal of the antagonists, reminded me of religious wars, where the apes resemble Christian crusaders using a historic figure's image to justify war and violence, a theme with deep implications. The movie addresses that but not in a way that will make you leave the theatre pondering. How teachings can be misconstrued.
This installment's message felt more overt compared to the trilogy, almost as if the apes were portrayed as essentially human. The trilogy was always telling a human story through apes, it was always obvious but now the fourth installment is quite on the nose.
Good time is spent with the characters, so when moments of sadness or goodbyes arise, we feel it too. It's slow paced but I was heavily invested. The scene where she calls out to Noah was amazing. Hearing an 'echo' speaking, was almost as shocking when Caesar screamed "go!" for the first time. Also was she essentially looking for an English textbook? Lol.
While Noah is the lead character, there were instances where Mae took the forefront, causing some confusion about the movie's primary focus. She didn't feel explored or interesting enough but I loved Freya Allan's performance.
It's a drama. It's not what I was expecting, I thought it'd me more action packed, but it's still good. It was different to my expectations the way "War for the Planet of the apes" also wasn't a full blown war as well. I also think this is the first movie since the trilogy started where earth was now actually a planet of apes. Humans clearly have been dominated.
Following up on Caesar was always gonna be difficult, I think he was a beloved character and we got to see his whole journey. The new lead character Noah is alright, however, I didn't find myself super captivated by him. We got to see Caesar's full character arc, birth to death; while Noah is already a little older, coming-of-age age. His story is still interesting though.
The conflict of ideas between Noah and Mae could have been more intense. There were times when I thought "ouu this is about to be a big fight/argument" and it's just meh. It wasn't as thought provoking as I would've liked. I liked Proximus Caesar though, I thought he made quite the enticing antagonist. Second most interesting character after Raka*.
The ending hints at the possibility of another trilogy, laying a solid foundation for future installments. Overall, I liked it more than "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" but not as much as the sequels. "Dawn of the planet of the apes" is still my favorite. It's not as epic as I thought it'd be; I think it's more enjoyable if you're already into the franchise. It doesn't do anything terribly, I just didn't walk out of the theatre thinking "wow!" People were applauding a lot throughout the movie actually. There was a guy who sat close to me and blacked out before the movie started, snoring the entire time. Thought about not waking him up after the movie finished because everyone literally just walked by him. This dude bought imax tickets, large bucket of popcorn, large soda and some more snacks, all that just to sleep before the movie started. Anyway, I still enjoyed the whole thing, and very much looking forward to whatever's next.
Also just found out it's directed by they who did maze runner movies and they actually both have such similar aura to them.
While the film's length and the extensive world-building sometimes made it feel a bit slow, every scene served a purpose in the end, especially considering this's setting the stage for a new era in the Planet of the Apes movies. We get to see how the environment, the apes and the humans have evolved. I liked how the movie paid homage to Caesar without directly continuing his story; his legacy felt respectfully acknowledged. He had a good run and his story was complete.
The premise of the movie, particularly the portrayal of the antagonists, reminded me of religious wars, where the apes resemble Christian crusaders using a historic figure's image to justify war and violence, a theme with deep implications. The movie addresses that but not in a way that will make you leave the theatre pondering. How teachings can be misconstrued.
This installment's message felt more overt compared to the trilogy, almost as if the apes were portrayed as essentially human. The trilogy was always telling a human story through apes, it was always obvious but now the fourth installment is quite on the nose.
Good time is spent with the characters, so when moments of sadness or goodbyes arise, we feel it too. It's slow paced but I was heavily invested. The scene where she calls out to Noah was amazing. Hearing an 'echo' speaking, was almost as shocking when Caesar screamed "go!" for the first time. Also was she essentially looking for an English textbook? Lol.
While Noah is the lead character, there were instances where Mae took the forefront, causing some confusion about the movie's primary focus. She didn't feel explored or interesting enough but I loved Freya Allan's performance.
It's a drama. It's not what I was expecting, I thought it'd me more action packed, but it's still good. It was different to my expectations the way "War for the Planet of the apes" also wasn't a full blown war as well. I also think this is the first movie since the trilogy started where earth was now actually a planet of apes. Humans clearly have been dominated.
Following up on Caesar was always gonna be difficult, I think he was a beloved character and we got to see his whole journey. The new lead character Noah is alright, however, I didn't find myself super captivated by him. We got to see Caesar's full character arc, birth to death; while Noah is already a little older, coming-of-age age. His story is still interesting though.
The conflict of ideas between Noah and Mae could have been more intense. There were times when I thought "ouu this is about to be a big fight/argument" and it's just meh. It wasn't as thought provoking as I would've liked. I liked Proximus Caesar though, I thought he made quite the enticing antagonist. Second most interesting character after Raka*.
The ending hints at the possibility of another trilogy, laying a solid foundation for future installments. Overall, I liked it more than "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" but not as much as the sequels. "Dawn of the planet of the apes" is still my favorite. It's not as epic as I thought it'd be; I think it's more enjoyable if you're already into the franchise. It doesn't do anything terribly, I just didn't walk out of the theatre thinking "wow!" People were applauding a lot throughout the movie actually. There was a guy who sat close to me and blacked out before the movie started, snoring the entire time. Thought about not waking him up after the movie finished because everyone literally just walked by him. This dude bought imax tickets, large bucket of popcorn, large soda and some more snacks, all that just to sleep before the movie started. Anyway, I still enjoyed the whole thing, and very much looking forward to whatever's next.
Also just found out it's directed by they who did maze runner movies and they actually both have such similar aura to them.
Rich Emotion, GREAT CGI
bankofmarquis11 May 2024
If someone would have said that 2 of the more emotionally rich movie going experiences of the past 6 months (or so) would have been a Godzilla movie and a Planet of the Apes film, I never would have believed you.
But such is the case with last fall's GODZILLA MINUS ONE and the new KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES. 2 CGI-rich action/fantasy epics that focus more on the emotional heft of the characters rather than inundate the audience with over-the-top, flashy CGI.
Are you paying attention KONG x GODZILLA: THE NEW EMPIRE?
Set "many generations" after the events of the previous 3 Planet of the Apes films, KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES takes place in a world where the Apes (not man) rule the planet. It is set in what would be their "Bronze Age" where all the simian populations are living in clans and the concepts, teachings and philosophies of the original intelligent Ape, Caesar, is more myth than reality.
Enter our hero, NOA (wonderfully played in motion capture by Owen Teague - the bully Patrick Hockstetter in the IT films) who is leaving a peaceful life with his family and his clan. Their clan of chimpanzees is overpowered - and thrown into slavery - by a clan of Gorillas led by Proxima Caeser (Kevin Durand - Little John in the Russel Crowe ROBIN HOOD film of 2010) - also ably rendered in motion capture. This sets Noa on a journey to rescue his clan aided by an Orangutan, Rata (Peter Macon - Bortus in the t.v. Series THE ORVILLE) and...gasp...a HUMAN (Freya Allan - THE WITCHER).
It is this journey by this disparate trio that brings the emotional power to this film as the trio must decide to try to trust each other while also coming to grips with what their world has become.
It's an interesting allegory that is subtle and does not try to preach or hit the audience over the head and the 3 actors (despite 2 of them being rendered in motion capture) form a compelling trio to watch.
And...that is because this film is wrapped in an action/adventure CGI story that is a marvel to view. The motion-capture of the actors is superb - this technology has come a long way since Tom Hanks in THE POLAR EXPRESS and one forgets that one is looking at a rendering and not a real, flesh and blood actor - even if that actor is an ape.
Director Wes Ball (the MAZE RUNNER films) does a very strong job of keeping the plot moving and the characters grounded while also dazzling with marvelous special effects and battle scenes that are well choreographed (you know where all the major players are and what their motivations are during the action). This helps to bring a very enjoyable summer blockbuster film to the cineplex - and you don't even need to have viewed any of the previous Planet of the Apes films to understand what's going on.
A very pleasant surprise and I look forward to the next (11th) feature in this series.
Letter Grade A-
8 (out of 10) Stars
And...you can take that to the Bank(OfMarquis)
But such is the case with last fall's GODZILLA MINUS ONE and the new KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES. 2 CGI-rich action/fantasy epics that focus more on the emotional heft of the characters rather than inundate the audience with over-the-top, flashy CGI.
Are you paying attention KONG x GODZILLA: THE NEW EMPIRE?
Set "many generations" after the events of the previous 3 Planet of the Apes films, KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES takes place in a world where the Apes (not man) rule the planet. It is set in what would be their "Bronze Age" where all the simian populations are living in clans and the concepts, teachings and philosophies of the original intelligent Ape, Caesar, is more myth than reality.
Enter our hero, NOA (wonderfully played in motion capture by Owen Teague - the bully Patrick Hockstetter in the IT films) who is leaving a peaceful life with his family and his clan. Their clan of chimpanzees is overpowered - and thrown into slavery - by a clan of Gorillas led by Proxima Caeser (Kevin Durand - Little John in the Russel Crowe ROBIN HOOD film of 2010) - also ably rendered in motion capture. This sets Noa on a journey to rescue his clan aided by an Orangutan, Rata (Peter Macon - Bortus in the t.v. Series THE ORVILLE) and...gasp...a HUMAN (Freya Allan - THE WITCHER).
It is this journey by this disparate trio that brings the emotional power to this film as the trio must decide to try to trust each other while also coming to grips with what their world has become.
It's an interesting allegory that is subtle and does not try to preach or hit the audience over the head and the 3 actors (despite 2 of them being rendered in motion capture) form a compelling trio to watch.
And...that is because this film is wrapped in an action/adventure CGI story that is a marvel to view. The motion-capture of the actors is superb - this technology has come a long way since Tom Hanks in THE POLAR EXPRESS and one forgets that one is looking at a rendering and not a real, flesh and blood actor - even if that actor is an ape.
Director Wes Ball (the MAZE RUNNER films) does a very strong job of keeping the plot moving and the characters grounded while also dazzling with marvelous special effects and battle scenes that are well choreographed (you know where all the major players are and what their motivations are during the action). This helps to bring a very enjoyable summer blockbuster film to the cineplex - and you don't even need to have viewed any of the previous Planet of the Apes films to understand what's going on.
A very pleasant surprise and I look forward to the next (11th) feature in this series.
Letter Grade A-
8 (out of 10) Stars
And...you can take that to the Bank(OfMarquis)
Good looking filler movie... avatar but with apes
jeremieroberrini10 May 2024
This movies is basically a passage preparing for the next one. It starts at one point and leave us at the same point.
Okay they are interesting things, but in the end we are looking at the story of Indigenous people getting overrun but modernisation. And just like every other movie of the genre there is an happy ending.
Which in this context does not progress the story.
There are many many many things they could have done to save the story. But they were either afraid or got controlled out of it.
I do recognise amazing work on the visuals, which is why I compare this one to avatar. Good visuals but empty story. And it might actually be avatar 2 . A shell movie using the previous one to sell and trying to be a filler for the next one...
Okay they are interesting things, but in the end we are looking at the story of Indigenous people getting overrun but modernisation. And just like every other movie of the genre there is an happy ending.
Which in this context does not progress the story.
There are many many many things they could have done to save the story. But they were either afraid or got controlled out of it.
I do recognise amazing work on the visuals, which is why I compare this one to avatar. Good visuals but empty story. And it might actually be avatar 2 . A shell movie using the previous one to sell and trying to be a filler for the next one...
I was expecting more.
luccadefrancisco10 May 2024
Warning: Spoilers
The setup of several generations later and how Caesar became a legend, practically like a "messiah," was interesting, but having a character who didn't measure up to Caesar and then the twist with Mae becoming the real protagonist was disappointing. Although Freya's performance was very nice, the story was centered around Noa and her journey of transformation and liberation from her clan, yet everything leaned towards Mae's purpose. I was expecting more action, more strategy like in the first installment, and above all, for Noa to become a new and evolved Caesar. The characters lack strength, and the ending was obvious and resolved in a simplistic manner. "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" remains my favorite.
Shorter would have made a big difference
moviemik-312 May 2024
I don't know if it's just me because in the past 52 hours I have watched all of the Planet of the Apes movies (excluding Tim Burton's horrible 2001 version) but it seemed to me that this movie was just OK.
Taking place "many, many generations" after Caesar dies, an ape named Noa and his two friends are going through a rite of passage that has to deal with collecting hawks' eggs when an intruder comes into camp breaking the egg he has collected and was holding for the ceremony the next day. Therefore, he needs to go and collect another egg before said ceremony. While he is out, he runs into a band of apes hurting other apes and they track him back to his village, which they decimate and bring Noa's clan into servitude. Noa escapes and seeks out his family and comes across an orangutan named Raka, and they both encounter a human woman who, it turns out, can talk. They are captured and brought to the palace of Proximus Caesar, an evil gorilla who desires to have all apes under his kingdom.
While there are many, many nods to the original 1968 film (including musical cues) and the movie had very stunning visual effects, the story itself was kind of lethargic when it wasn't in set piece mode.
The acting - with a couple of exceptions - was just okay and this is an indication that future movies need a protagonist that meets the stature of Andy Serkis and Roddy McDowell. Owen Teague as Noa, is barely adequate and the same can be said for Freya Allen as Mae, the talking human. She obviously has ulterior motives, but her performance doesn't. The only three actors in the film that are worth mentioning are Peter Macon as Raka, the orangutan, whose motion capture seems to show his jovial good nature and charm, William H. Macy (yeah! That guy!!!) as a human who educates Proximus Caesar on human history and literature and who radiates the word "collaborator" and finally the great character actor Kevin Durand, as big bad Proximus himself. Durand, as he always does, radiates menace.
There's no reason that this story could not have been accomplished in less than 145 minutes and it just seems that nowadays the name of the game is to make movies longer for the sake of making movies longer. This movie really dragged, not because of any poor story choices (because the story itself was decent), but because of poor choices in the editing room.
I see where this movie trilogy is going and it's fine but is the next motion picture going to be two hours and 45 minutes long and the final movie in this trilogy going to be three hours long? These are Planet of the Apes movies - we're not the defining Pi. The notion that somehow longer is better is absolutely ridiculous.
This is the worst of the reboot films since 2011
Yeah, watch it because it's not horrible but it could give you a headache (although I may have a headache because I forgot my eyeglasses when I went to the movie theater but, thankfully, I sat in the fourth row and my eyesight isn't that messed up that I couldn't see)
If you're into monkeys, WATCH IT - Otherwise, Skip it
3/5.
Taking place "many, many generations" after Caesar dies, an ape named Noa and his two friends are going through a rite of passage that has to deal with collecting hawks' eggs when an intruder comes into camp breaking the egg he has collected and was holding for the ceremony the next day. Therefore, he needs to go and collect another egg before said ceremony. While he is out, he runs into a band of apes hurting other apes and they track him back to his village, which they decimate and bring Noa's clan into servitude. Noa escapes and seeks out his family and comes across an orangutan named Raka, and they both encounter a human woman who, it turns out, can talk. They are captured and brought to the palace of Proximus Caesar, an evil gorilla who desires to have all apes under his kingdom.
While there are many, many nods to the original 1968 film (including musical cues) and the movie had very stunning visual effects, the story itself was kind of lethargic when it wasn't in set piece mode.
The acting - with a couple of exceptions - was just okay and this is an indication that future movies need a protagonist that meets the stature of Andy Serkis and Roddy McDowell. Owen Teague as Noa, is barely adequate and the same can be said for Freya Allen as Mae, the talking human. She obviously has ulterior motives, but her performance doesn't. The only three actors in the film that are worth mentioning are Peter Macon as Raka, the orangutan, whose motion capture seems to show his jovial good nature and charm, William H. Macy (yeah! That guy!!!) as a human who educates Proximus Caesar on human history and literature and who radiates the word "collaborator" and finally the great character actor Kevin Durand, as big bad Proximus himself. Durand, as he always does, radiates menace.
There's no reason that this story could not have been accomplished in less than 145 minutes and it just seems that nowadays the name of the game is to make movies longer for the sake of making movies longer. This movie really dragged, not because of any poor story choices (because the story itself was decent), but because of poor choices in the editing room.
I see where this movie trilogy is going and it's fine but is the next motion picture going to be two hours and 45 minutes long and the final movie in this trilogy going to be three hours long? These are Planet of the Apes movies - we're not the defining Pi. The notion that somehow longer is better is absolutely ridiculous.
This is the worst of the reboot films since 2011
Yeah, watch it because it's not horrible but it could give you a headache (although I may have a headache because I forgot my eyeglasses when I went to the movie theater but, thankfully, I sat in the fourth row and my eyesight isn't that messed up that I couldn't see)
If you're into monkeys, WATCH IT - Otherwise, Skip it
3/5.
Absolute Brilliant Headstart
dhruvpandya-8859413 May 2024
I'll keep it short.
If you're Expecting Action Blockbuster, big explosions, goofy aha scenes, heavy action scenes, Plot rushing from 0 to 10 in 2.5 hours then it is not for you
If you love a proper world building, want to know how things are at micro level for apes scattered around the world, if you want to see what 4-6 generations gap does to a civilization, how different cultures, mindsets and ideas Emerge from just an intelligent ape 400 years ago. Then this is for you.
This was just a mere beginning, A setup !! For Apes and Especially For Humans. Not everything about Humans is revealed for what Happened after Cesar, it is kept for open interpretation even if we know much.
The Antagonist is very much likable and having Characteristics of a total Alpha Ape but intelligent.
The Movie ends on a great cliffhanger.
If the Plot still got improved, then The Sequels are definitely Promising.
Cons: Less Engaging then the previous movies.
They need to write something so that we can care a little more for the leading characters.
The Depth in characters are still superficial and not correctly explored as we Cared about Cesar or Koba or Maurice in the first movie itself.
Great Thought Provoking Movie.
If you're Expecting Action Blockbuster, big explosions, goofy aha scenes, heavy action scenes, Plot rushing from 0 to 10 in 2.5 hours then it is not for you
If you love a proper world building, want to know how things are at micro level for apes scattered around the world, if you want to see what 4-6 generations gap does to a civilization, how different cultures, mindsets and ideas Emerge from just an intelligent ape 400 years ago. Then this is for you.
This was just a mere beginning, A setup !! For Apes and Especially For Humans. Not everything about Humans is revealed for what Happened after Cesar, it is kept for open interpretation even if we know much.
The Antagonist is very much likable and having Characteristics of a total Alpha Ape but intelligent.
The Movie ends on a great cliffhanger.
If the Plot still got improved, then The Sequels are definitely Promising.
Cons: Less Engaging then the previous movies.
They need to write something so that we can care a little more for the leading characters.
The Depth in characters are still superficial and not correctly explored as we Cared about Cesar or Koba or Maurice in the first movie itself.
Great Thought Provoking Movie.
More Of Like A Meh Planet Of The Apes Movie Than A Bad Planet Of The Apes Movie
HabibieHakim12310 May 2024
I have quite a lot of problems with this newest Apes movie, i thought that the first 30 minutes was pretty boring, the story was just not as compelling as the three previous film, not as engaging and not as well structured as the previous one and that's not saying that the previous movies were perfect in any way, i just feel like they could actually showed more without adding another duration, one good interesting character that they kill way too soon, the villain Proximus could've been introduced more well and showed more so that we can actually be terrified by him but unfortunately that's not the case, he's still good but not as terrifying as he should be, some of the editing was weak, and that's basically all of my problem with the film, the good stuff in the film was of course the CGI, special and visual effects in the film was incredible, the slower dialogue parts are mostly the most engaging part of the film, all the characters while some wasn't perfectly used, they were good characters, Freya Allan was ok, and Noa i think was a perfect sort of Caesar next leader of the franchise, the rest of the supporting characters was good too, and the ending was really opening some new continuation story that i definitely more interested and excited for, very strong ending that i really like, so overall it's still a mixed feeling mostly as i really do wanna loved this movie but it is a slow burn Apes movie with a problematic stuff in it and not as amazing of a story as before, but not bad, and it still filled with amazing technical stuff, good new characters, good performances, and decent story, i do believe and hope that i will like the next one even more than this one.
*yawn* BOOOORRRIIINNGGG
jaredwillmer_33310 May 2024
The only good things I can say about this film is the CGI and the 5 min climax. It was beyond boring.
The main plot consists of a rescue mission and a divide between characters. Aren't they the plots of Dawn of the Planet of the Apes & War of the Planet of the Apes put together? And somehow most of the film consists of the most uninteresting world exploration and character development. It was almost like they intentionally set the excitement bar low so the next film(s) can easily appear more exciting. If you're expecting an action packed adventure, maybe save your money instead. I wasn't necessarily expecting an action packed adventure, but I expected a bit more than one 5 min action scene. I would also expect to care about the story.
War for the Planet of the Apes is on my 10/10 list, and for it to be followed up by THIS is insulting. When I saw Wes Ball was directing and Andy Serkis wasn't returning I knew it would be a disaster, when I saw the reviews I thought it might actually be good. (I know Serkis's Caesar isn't in the film but he plays an ape for Christ sake).
This was clearly just a cash grab for 20th Century Fox which is receiving relatively positive feedback. Very frustrating to see.
The main plot consists of a rescue mission and a divide between characters. Aren't they the plots of Dawn of the Planet of the Apes & War of the Planet of the Apes put together? And somehow most of the film consists of the most uninteresting world exploration and character development. It was almost like they intentionally set the excitement bar low so the next film(s) can easily appear more exciting. If you're expecting an action packed adventure, maybe save your money instead. I wasn't necessarily expecting an action packed adventure, but I expected a bit more than one 5 min action scene. I would also expect to care about the story.
War for the Planet of the Apes is on my 10/10 list, and for it to be followed up by THIS is insulting. When I saw Wes Ball was directing and Andy Serkis wasn't returning I knew it would be a disaster, when I saw the reviews I thought it might actually be good. (I know Serkis's Caesar isn't in the film but he plays an ape for Christ sake).
This was clearly just a cash grab for 20th Century Fox which is receiving relatively positive feedback. Very frustrating to see.
What Walt's Watching
waltermwilliams9 May 2024
Fast forward many generations or to be more accurate about 300 years from "War for the Planet of the Apes" to a brand new trilogy in this universe that started in our real world in 2011 with "Rise" followed by "Dawn" and "War".
"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" proves no one can stop the reign!
So in fact it's more of a prequel, but includes the story arcs from the rebooted trilogy, whilst also being a clear nod to the original Charlton Heston/ Roddy McDowall 1968 "Planet of the Apes"
Director Wes Hall didn't want a direct sequel to "War for the Planet of the Apes".
Instead the director jumped centuries ahead in the timeline to prepare for the next instalment and trilogy.
This new movie opens with Caesar's burial ceremony, which feels very Native American or even Nordic.
Then it flashes forward to explore what's become of Caesar's legacy, his ideas, his values and especially his motto for all Apes.
The CGI and Blue Screen are next level.
Goofs: Bunkers that still have power after 3 centuries, are still shiny and need no housekeeping.
Plus sea water that rises above sea water level.
"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" is the first to be shot in IMAX and would look even more awesome screened in that format.
I saw an advance screening in XD with new Laser Projection and was blown away by the VFX with city scapes transformed into jungles, ballparks reclaimed by nature, beaches littered with washed up rusting hulks of ships and high definition Ape facial expressions.
BTW. This is the first modern Ape movie shot without Andy Serkis, but it does star Kevin Durand ("The Strain"), William H. Macy ("Shameless") and Owen Teague ("Bloodline").
Watch out for: One of the most iconic death by birds scenes since Alfred Hitchcock.
Now I can't wait for the reboot of the '68 version where apes are reading, bearing guns, governed and all the crazy stuff that made this concept so fascinating to me as a youth.
"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" has blown my mind.
Its message is about how society functions better with decency, morality and compassion...valuable things that the OG Caesar taught his clan and passed on through many generations...because together we are strong as a society, not divided.
"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" is like "Mad Max: Fury Road" with Apes and you're getting the big picture.
What a wonderful day...to see a movie where you'll believe Apes can swear!
"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" proves no one can stop the reign!
So in fact it's more of a prequel, but includes the story arcs from the rebooted trilogy, whilst also being a clear nod to the original Charlton Heston/ Roddy McDowall 1968 "Planet of the Apes"
Director Wes Hall didn't want a direct sequel to "War for the Planet of the Apes".
Instead the director jumped centuries ahead in the timeline to prepare for the next instalment and trilogy.
This new movie opens with Caesar's burial ceremony, which feels very Native American or even Nordic.
Then it flashes forward to explore what's become of Caesar's legacy, his ideas, his values and especially his motto for all Apes.
The CGI and Blue Screen are next level.
Goofs: Bunkers that still have power after 3 centuries, are still shiny and need no housekeeping.
Plus sea water that rises above sea water level.
"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" is the first to be shot in IMAX and would look even more awesome screened in that format.
I saw an advance screening in XD with new Laser Projection and was blown away by the VFX with city scapes transformed into jungles, ballparks reclaimed by nature, beaches littered with washed up rusting hulks of ships and high definition Ape facial expressions.
BTW. This is the first modern Ape movie shot without Andy Serkis, but it does star Kevin Durand ("The Strain"), William H. Macy ("Shameless") and Owen Teague ("Bloodline").
Watch out for: One of the most iconic death by birds scenes since Alfred Hitchcock.
Now I can't wait for the reboot of the '68 version where apes are reading, bearing guns, governed and all the crazy stuff that made this concept so fascinating to me as a youth.
"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" has blown my mind.
Its message is about how society functions better with decency, morality and compassion...valuable things that the OG Caesar taught his clan and passed on through many generations...because together we are strong as a society, not divided.
"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" is like "Mad Max: Fury Road" with Apes and you're getting the big picture.
What a wonderful day...to see a movie where you'll believe Apes can swear!
Needed a more focused storyline & less human traits
carltonjb8 May 2024
Was so looking forward to this film even book my ticket in advance as I really enjoy this reboot series. However this one is really disappointing! While the cinematography and AI is absolutely phenomenal, the lead characters have far too human traits! And the human lead character, very disappointing & unbelievable, the casting of Freya Allan is really hammy, they obviously needed a Gen Z in the film. Too many holes in the plot, they filled up the film with stuff & missed opportunities to explore some scenarios in more depth. There was a great opportunity to give a nod to the original, when they were walking along the beach which they missed, (guess what I'm thinking)?. Perhaps it would have been better with a more focused storyline.
Execeptional
imatranslator202211 May 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Kingdom of the Planet of Apes is an exceptional movie with the perfect script that pays homage to the original 1968 classic. We follow the journey of Noa, a young ape who lives with his clan in their peaceful village, where they raise eagles and hunt for fish. An unfortunate incident forces Noa to search for his clan as he learns the truth about the apes' existence and how Caeser's words have been distorted after his demise in the following centuries by the Elders. The visual effects are impressive along with the breathtaking landscapes filmed in IMAX, and mesmerizing soundtrack. I look forward to watching another sequel and I'll be rooting for the apes because I like them.
Emotionally engaging
sinscopefilms15 May 2024
KOPOTA (2024) delivers a surprisingly solid cinematic experience. The landscapes are not as breathtaking since the CGI was noticeable. While the music occasionally dips into mediocrity, similar to typical superhero films and Godzilla x Kong, I wish it had a different-sounding soundtrack and something a bit more unique. It detracted from my overall experience.
The CGI apes are impressively realistic, although they are clearly identifiable as CGI, which doesn't detract from their impact. Medium close-ups throughout the film add a personal touch to the storytelling, making the apes' expressions particularly engaging. The production design and writing are notably superior, reminding me of the vibes from Kong x Godzilla (2024) but with better execution.
The first act moves at a slow pace, laying the foundation of the film. The editing is subtle yet commendable, maintaining the film's rhythm without drawing attention to itself. Some shaky camera movements in the most dramatic scenes effectively heighten the tension, adding to the film's dynamic presentation.
Voiceovers in the film are another high point, with each delivering depth, courage, and meaningfulness that enrich the ape characters. The human characters are intriguingly portrayed with a blend of cold-bloodedness and empathy, adding layers to the narrative, but I felt like it was not enough. Although the third act is slightly stronger than the first, the transition between the second and third acts feels a bit sluggish.
KOPOTA is a visually captivating and emotionally engaging film that explores complex themes like morality and trust with a reasonable blend of action and depth. With its clever ending and strong character portrayals, it earns a well-deserved rating of a solid 7/10 and a touching 8/10.
The CGI apes are impressively realistic, although they are clearly identifiable as CGI, which doesn't detract from their impact. Medium close-ups throughout the film add a personal touch to the storytelling, making the apes' expressions particularly engaging. The production design and writing are notably superior, reminding me of the vibes from Kong x Godzilla (2024) but with better execution.
The first act moves at a slow pace, laying the foundation of the film. The editing is subtle yet commendable, maintaining the film's rhythm without drawing attention to itself. Some shaky camera movements in the most dramatic scenes effectively heighten the tension, adding to the film's dynamic presentation.
Voiceovers in the film are another high point, with each delivering depth, courage, and meaningfulness that enrich the ape characters. The human characters are intriguingly portrayed with a blend of cold-bloodedness and empathy, adding layers to the narrative, but I felt like it was not enough. Although the third act is slightly stronger than the first, the transition between the second and third acts feels a bit sluggish.
KOPOTA is a visually captivating and emotionally engaging film that explores complex themes like morality and trust with a reasonable blend of action and depth. With its clever ending and strong character portrayals, it earns a well-deserved rating of a solid 7/10 and a touching 8/10.
I just viewed it in a ScreenX theater ... wow, what an adventure! The most appealing post-apocalyptic world I visited as far as I can remember!
ridleyrules8 May 2024
100% spoiler-free review
I just watched this on 8 May 2024 in the ScreenX format. Does the format add something? Yes! Is it worth driving an extra hour for? Yes! Will the movie still be enjoyable in the more regular formats? Absolutely, the movie is worth it either way!
As preparation for this movie. I re-watched the Ceasar trilogy Rise (2011, 2D), Dawn (2014, wonderfully, natively shot with 3D cameras) and War (2017, 3D added, partly in post) in my 3D-capable home theater. It is a very moving trilogy that I had not viewed in a while, a worthwhile re-watch. Is it necessary to understand this 2024 edition Kingdom? No, not at all. It will add depth to the experience, but the new story can be understood and followed without having seen the first trilogy.
There is no 3D release of this new feature, Kingdom, unfortunately. No 3D version anywhere in the world, from what I found. In my country (Netherlands) it is playing in the premium formats Imax, 4DX (which is still 2D in this case), Dolby Cinema and ScreenX. I do my research and usually I tend to go for ScreenX if I have similar options to choose from. Why? ScreenX adds peripheral imagery that is specially shot for a selection of scenes, usually the scenes where the viewer can be immersed in the action or the environments. There are 5 or 6 long sections where the side screens are turned on. It is not an add-on effect created in post, there is actual additional, original footage to the left and right that you don't get to see in any of the other formats. There is also no way to see it at home yet, as far as I know, although it could be released for VR glasses, I imagine, similar to how Disney+ recently released Disney and Pixar 3D movies for the Apple Vision Pro.
I am someone who avoids watching previews and trailers. I want to go into a movie with zero information about what I am going to see. I hate those spoiler-ridden trailers that give half the plot points away. So I am not going to say anything about the story.
All I want to say is that this post-apocalyptic world is the most appealing that I can remember experiencing. It brings a totally different feeling than e.g. The Mad Max movies, Fallout, The Road or Akira. Even though there is something imminently sad about this possible future, it has an appeal that is comparable more to James Cameron's Avatar movies on Pandora. Where the Ceasar trilogy showed a not so distant future of earth, here we get to look around in an intriguing green world full of surprises.
I am not very familiar with director Wes Ball's previous films, but he does a wonderful job following into Matt Reeves's (Dawn and War) footsteps. Yes, this is science fiction. Yes, it is a marvel of technology that we can be immersed into this world, but in the end it is a movie where you are swept away by engaging performances and story lines, not by special effects. Go see it, if you enjoy original, intelligent stories.
I just watched this on 8 May 2024 in the ScreenX format. Does the format add something? Yes! Is it worth driving an extra hour for? Yes! Will the movie still be enjoyable in the more regular formats? Absolutely, the movie is worth it either way!
As preparation for this movie. I re-watched the Ceasar trilogy Rise (2011, 2D), Dawn (2014, wonderfully, natively shot with 3D cameras) and War (2017, 3D added, partly in post) in my 3D-capable home theater. It is a very moving trilogy that I had not viewed in a while, a worthwhile re-watch. Is it necessary to understand this 2024 edition Kingdom? No, not at all. It will add depth to the experience, but the new story can be understood and followed without having seen the first trilogy.
There is no 3D release of this new feature, Kingdom, unfortunately. No 3D version anywhere in the world, from what I found. In my country (Netherlands) it is playing in the premium formats Imax, 4DX (which is still 2D in this case), Dolby Cinema and ScreenX. I do my research and usually I tend to go for ScreenX if I have similar options to choose from. Why? ScreenX adds peripheral imagery that is specially shot for a selection of scenes, usually the scenes where the viewer can be immersed in the action or the environments. There are 5 or 6 long sections where the side screens are turned on. It is not an add-on effect created in post, there is actual additional, original footage to the left and right that you don't get to see in any of the other formats. There is also no way to see it at home yet, as far as I know, although it could be released for VR glasses, I imagine, similar to how Disney+ recently released Disney and Pixar 3D movies for the Apple Vision Pro.
I am someone who avoids watching previews and trailers. I want to go into a movie with zero information about what I am going to see. I hate those spoiler-ridden trailers that give half the plot points away. So I am not going to say anything about the story.
All I want to say is that this post-apocalyptic world is the most appealing that I can remember experiencing. It brings a totally different feeling than e.g. The Mad Max movies, Fallout, The Road or Akira. Even though there is something imminently sad about this possible future, it has an appeal that is comparable more to James Cameron's Avatar movies on Pandora. Where the Ceasar trilogy showed a not so distant future of earth, here we get to look around in an intriguing green world full of surprises.
I am not very familiar with director Wes Ball's previous films, but he does a wonderful job following into Matt Reeves's (Dawn and War) footsteps. Yes, this is science fiction. Yes, it is a marvel of technology that we can be immersed into this world, but in the end it is a movie where you are swept away by engaging performances and story lines, not by special effects. Go see it, if you enjoy original, intelligent stories.
Not bad!
Sakaresm8 May 2024
Warning: Spoilers
It's not bad. The cinematography and special effects are great, I like the world which is like a mix of post-apocalypse and prehistory. Acting and characters are mostly good, and there are some intense action scenes. The fights were good and the CGI is great.
The downside of the movie is the plot and overall story. The beginning and the pacing are good, but the story itself is just something we have seen a thousand times before: our hero's village lives alone in peace. Then the evil people come, burn the place down and take our hero's family. Hero barely survives and then goes on an adventure to save them, learns some crucial information on the way, but eventually gets captured, too. Then the hero devices a plan and helps his friends escape the villain. Villain is finally defeated and the hero goes home a hero and rebuilding begins. I mean...this is a textbook example of the most generic hero's journey story arc.
It's maybe not as bad as I make it sound here, but just don't expect a thrilling story with twists and turns. It's entertaining and fun and there are some great scenes here and there, but maybe not worth the movie ticket. This is a perfect flick for some rainy Saturday night in your home sofa with a blanket and a bucket of popcorn, but perhaps save your money until it's on Netflix or wherever.
The downside of the movie is the plot and overall story. The beginning and the pacing are good, but the story itself is just something we have seen a thousand times before: our hero's village lives alone in peace. Then the evil people come, burn the place down and take our hero's family. Hero barely survives and then goes on an adventure to save them, learns some crucial information on the way, but eventually gets captured, too. Then the hero devices a plan and helps his friends escape the villain. Villain is finally defeated and the hero goes home a hero and rebuilding begins. I mean...this is a textbook example of the most generic hero's journey story arc.
It's maybe not as bad as I make it sound here, but just don't expect a thrilling story with twists and turns. It's entertaining and fun and there are some great scenes here and there, but maybe not worth the movie ticket. This is a perfect flick for some rainy Saturday night in your home sofa with a blanket and a bucket of popcorn, but perhaps save your money until it's on Netflix or wherever.
Guys, come on. Just stop making these.
dkznqvvt12 May 2024
I was born in 1987. That means I wasn't there when the first Planet of the Apes (1968) was released. Even so, I was mesmerized the first time I watched it.
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes feels to me just like all the most recent Jurassic Park movies. It's not that they suck, per se. But the first movies set the bar so high - both in visual effects and plot - that, at some point in the franchise, movies just become unwatcheable. I call it the "disgusting point".
For Jurassic Park, it happened in Jurassic World (2015). That means its previous movie - Jurassic Park III (2001) - was somehow watcheable. Die Hard reached that point at A Good Day to Die Hard (2013).
In the Planet of the Apes franchise, disgusting point was reached in 2024. Kingdom is not good. New characters stories are paper-thin. Too much CGI, too little acting, too no good plot.
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes feels to me just like all the most recent Jurassic Park movies. It's not that they suck, per se. But the first movies set the bar so high - both in visual effects and plot - that, at some point in the franchise, movies just become unwatcheable. I call it the "disgusting point".
For Jurassic Park, it happened in Jurassic World (2015). That means its previous movie - Jurassic Park III (2001) - was somehow watcheable. Die Hard reached that point at A Good Day to Die Hard (2013).
In the Planet of the Apes franchise, disgusting point was reached in 2024. Kingdom is not good. New characters stories are paper-thin. Too much CGI, too little acting, too no good plot.
Should have left it with the recent trilogy.....
FlashCallahan10 May 2024
Warning: Spoilers
In my opinion, the last Planet Of the Apes trilogy is possibly one of the finest live action trilogies ever made. But Hollywood loves mon(k)ey, so here we are again once more.
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 to make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike......
As always, the effects are second to none, the apes look stunning, and they are seamless. And then there's the film.
I knew I wasn't going to like this from the moment i started rolling my eyes in the cinema when I saw the trailer for the what seems, fiftieth time, and I'm not exaggerating with that. Maybe a little. But I've seen the trailer in nearly every film I've seen in the last two months, so unfortunately, it got my back up a little.
The first act is a maundering mess, we plod along with exposition and the mysticism that the films have held for the best part of sixty years. And it felt like sixty years.
The film picks up a little when we are introduced to the second act, and the special guest star, but by then, because of the maundering opening, I began to care less about what was happening, and what the protagonists were trying to achieve.
Maybe I was just against this because of the amount of times that I have seen the trailer, so I'm going to give it another chance, as the last three POTA films were first class.
But it might be part of a new trilogy, because if this does make money, the studios would be bananas not to make another one.
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 to make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike......
As always, the effects are second to none, the apes look stunning, and they are seamless. And then there's the film.
I knew I wasn't going to like this from the moment i started rolling my eyes in the cinema when I saw the trailer for the what seems, fiftieth time, and I'm not exaggerating with that. Maybe a little. But I've seen the trailer in nearly every film I've seen in the last two months, so unfortunately, it got my back up a little.
The first act is a maundering mess, we plod along with exposition and the mysticism that the films have held for the best part of sixty years. And it felt like sixty years.
The film picks up a little when we are introduced to the second act, and the special guest star, but by then, because of the maundering opening, I began to care less about what was happening, and what the protagonists were trying to achieve.
Maybe I was just against this because of the amount of times that I have seen the trailer, so I'm going to give it another chance, as the last three POTA films were first class.
But it might be part of a new trilogy, because if this does make money, the studios would be bananas not to make another one.
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