Determining the exact number of “ape movies in order” is a deceptively complex task. Depending on your criteria – focusing solely on Planet of the Apes, broader ape-centric films, or even including gorilla appearances in monster movies – the list varies significantly. This article will untangle this cinematic jungle, providing a comprehensive guide to navigating the world of ape films and answering the most pressing questions on this topic.
Defining “Ape Movie” and the Challenge of Chronology
Pinpointing the definitive number of ape movies requires a clear definition of what qualifies. Are we solely considering films within the Planet of the Apes franchise, encompassing sequels, remakes, and reboots? Or are we widening the scope to include any movie where apes, particularly gorillas, play a significant role?
This ambiguity makes a precise “number in order” problematic. While we can readily list the core Planet of the Apes films chronologically, including supplementary material like TV shows and animated series expands the universe further. Moreover, films like King Kong, Mighty Joe Young, and even documentaries about primates complicate the calculation.
Therefore, rather than presenting a single, inflexible number, this article will explore different categories and offer chronological lists within each, empowering you to define your own “ape movie” universe. We’ll start with the core franchise and then branch out to explore related and tangential films.
The Core Planet of the Apes Saga: A Definitive Chronology
The most straightforward and generally accepted list of “ape movies in order” focuses on the core Planet of the Apes franchise. Here’s a chronological listing based on release date:
- Planet of the Apes (1968)
- Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970)
- Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971)
- Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972)
- Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973)
- Planet of the Apes (2001) – Remake
- Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011) – Reboot
- Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
- War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
- Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024)
This list represents the central narrative arc across the various incarnations of the franchise. Notice the inclusion of both the 2001 remake and the reboot trilogy (2011-2017), as they represent significant entries in the Planet of the Apes filmography.
Beyond the Core: Expanding the Primate Cinematic Universe
To broaden our scope, let’s consider films where apes, especially gorillas, play a major role, even if not directly connected to the Planet of the Apes universe. This list is not exhaustive but offers a selection of notable examples:
- King Kong (various versions: 1933, 1976, 2005, Kong: Skull Island 2017, Godzilla vs. Kong 2021) – This iconic monster movie is arguably the progenitor of the ape movie genre.
- Mighty Joe Young (1949, 1998) – Another classic giant ape film, often compared to King Kong.
- Gorillas in the Mist (1988) – A biographical drama about Dian Fossey’s work studying gorillas in Rwanda.
- Congo (1995) – An adventure film featuring killer grey gorillas.
- Buddy (1997) – A family film about a woman raising a gorilla.
- George of the Jungle (1997) – A comedic take on the Tarzan trope, featuring an ape sidekick.
These films showcase the diverse ways apes have been portrayed in cinema, ranging from terrifying monsters to sympathetic creatures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3 FAQ 1: What is the best order to watch the Planet of the Apes franchise?
There are two primary approaches: release order (as listed above) or chronological order based on the in-universe timeline. The reboot trilogy (2011-2017) acts as a prequel to the original 1968 film, offering a potential starting point. However, watching in release order preserves the original narrative’s intended progression and avoids spoilers for those unfamiliar with the older films. Consider starting with the original 1968 film for the most impactful experience.
H3 FAQ 2: Is the 2001 Planet of the Apes remake considered canon?
While the 2001 remake exists within the Planet of the Apes cinematic universe, it’s generally considered a standalone interpretation, separate from both the original series and the reboot trilogy. It doesn’t directly contradict the other timelines, but its continuity isn’t officially integrated.
H3 FAQ 3: Are there any Planet of the Apes TV shows or animated series?
Yes! There was a live-action TV series, Planet of the Apes (1974), and an animated series, Return to the Planet of the Apes (1975). While not essential for understanding the core film series, they expand the world and offer alternative storylines. These series are considered part of the broader franchise but not strictly canon within the original film timeline.
H3 FAQ 4: Where does Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024) fit into the timeline?
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024) is a sequel to War for the Planet of the Apes (2017), continuing the rebooted narrative. It takes place generations after Caesar’s death, exploring a world where apes have become the dominant species.
H3 FAQ 5: Are there any plans for future Planet of the Apes movies?
Given the positive reception of Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, further sequels are highly probable. 20th Century Studios, now owned by Disney, is likely to continue exploring the franchise’s potential.
H3 FAQ 6: What makes the Planet of the Apes franchise so enduring?
The franchise’s enduring appeal lies in its allegorical themes, exploring issues of race, class, war, and humanity’s place in the world. The intelligent apes, complex characters, and thought-provoking narratives contribute to its lasting legacy.
H3 FAQ 7: Which Planet of the Apes movie is considered the best?
The original Planet of the Apes (1968) is widely regarded as the best, praised for its groundbreaking special effects, compelling story, and impactful ending. However, War for the Planet of the Apes (2017) is also highly rated for its emotional depth and stunning visuals.
H3 FAQ 8: What’s the difference between a gorilla and an ape?
This might seem basic, but it’s important for clarity! While gorillas are a type of ape, not all apes are gorillas. Apes are a superfamily of primates that includes gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans, bonobos, and humans.
H3 FAQ 9: Why are apes often portrayed as villains in movies?
The portrayal of apes as villains often stems from fear of the “other” and anxieties about humanity’s place in the natural order. Their strength, intelligence, and perceived aggression can be easily translated into menacing qualities on screen. However, more recent films have challenged this stereotype, presenting apes with greater nuance and empathy.
H3 FAQ 10: Are there any documentaries about apes worth watching?
Absolutely! Gorillas in the Mist (the documentary this time, not the fictionalized movie) is a classic. Other excellent documentaries include those focused on Jane Goodall’s work with chimpanzees and Biruté Galdikas’ research on orangutans. These films offer valuable insights into the real lives of these amazing creatures.
H3 FAQ 11: Besides gorillas, what other apes appear in movies?
While gorillas are the most common, chimpanzees and orangutans also make appearances, though often in less prominent roles. Some films, like the Planet of the Apes franchise, feature fictional ape species with characteristics borrowed from various real-world apes.
H3 FAQ 12: Where can I find a comprehensive list of all ape-related movies?
Websites like IMDb and Wikipedia can be helpful for compiling lists of films featuring apes. However, remember that these lists may vary depending on the criteria used to define “ape movie.” Searching for terms like “gorilla movies,” “ape movies,” and “primate films” will yield a broad range of results.
Conclusion: The Ever-Evolving Ape Cinema
The question of “how many ape movies are there in order” doesn’t have a simple answer. The number depends entirely on your definition and focus. Whether you’re a devoted Planet of the Apes fan or simply intrigued by the cinematic portrayal of these fascinating creatures, the ape movie genre offers a rich and diverse landscape to explore. From the groundbreaking effects of the original Planet of the Apes to the stunning visuals of the modern reboot trilogy, these films continue to captivate audiences and raise thought-provoking questions about our relationship with the animal kingdom and our own humanity. The ongoing success of the franchise, exemplified by the release of Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, ensures that the ape cinema will continue to evolve and entertain for years to come.