The Planet of the Apes franchise boasts a rich and evolving history, spanning multiple timelines and character arcs. In order, there are currently nine feature films released under the “Planet of the Apes” banner, with more potentially on the horizon.
Understanding the Planet of the Apes Filmography
The chronological viewing order can be a bit complex due to reboots and prequels, making it crucial to understand the nuances of each era within the franchise. This guide provides a clear roadmap through the ape-dominated world on screen.
The Original Series (1968-1973)
The original series establishes the core narrative elements and themes that have defined the franchise for decades. Its impact on science fiction cinema is undeniable.
The recommended viewing order for this era is:
- Planet of the Apes (1968): The iconic original that started it all. Charlton Heston’s astronaut, George Taylor, crash lands on a planet ruled by intelligent apes.
- Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970): Brent, another astronaut, searches for Taylor and discovers a society of mutated humans worshiping a doomsday bomb.
- Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971): Zira, Cornelius, and Milo escape the destruction of Earth and travel back in time to 20th century America.
- Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972): Caesar, the son of Zira and Cornelius, leads a slave revolt against humans in a dystopian future.
- Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973): Caesar attempts to establish a peaceful coexistence between apes and humans, but conflict is inevitable.
The Tim Burton Remake (2001)
Tim Burton’s Planet of the Apes (2001), while visually striking, offered a reimagining of the original story that largely deviates from the original narrative. Many fans consider it a separate entity.
The Reboot Trilogy (2011-2017)
This trilogy serves as a prequel series, detailing the origins of the ape uprising and the rise of Caesar as a pivotal leader. It successfully reinvigorated the franchise for a new generation.
The viewing order is:
- Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011): Scientist Will Rodman develops a virus that enhances the intelligence of chimpanzees, leading to Caesar’s extraordinary abilities.
- Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014): A decade after the virus outbreak, a group of human survivors clashes with Caesar’s growing ape community.
- War for the Planet of the Apes (2017): Caesar leads his apes against a ruthless human military force, culminating in a desperate fight for survival and a new home.
The New Kingdom Era (2024-Present)
A new film, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024), has launched a new era of films. It continues the Caesar saga, set generations after his death and focusing on a new ape leader and the remnants of humanity.
FAQs About the Planet of the Apes
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the world of talking apes and dystopian futures:
1. In what order should I watch the Planet of the Apes movies for the first time?
For a first-time viewer, the recommended order is the release order for each distinct continuity. This means starting with Planet of the Apes (1968), followed by the original sequels, then the Tim Burton remake (optional), followed by the reboot trilogy (Rise, Dawn, War), and finally Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes. This approach allows you to experience the evolution of the franchise as it was intended.
2. Is the Tim Burton remake considered canon?
The Tim Burton remake, while sharing the same title, is generally considered a separate, non-canon interpretation of the original story. Its plot diverges significantly from both the original series and the reboot trilogy.
3. Do I need to watch the original movies to understand the reboot trilogy?
No, the reboot trilogy is designed as a prequel to the original films, offering its own self-contained narrative about the origins of the ape uprising. However, understanding the themes and concepts of the original films can enrich your viewing experience.
4. Is there a Planet of the Apes TV series?
Yes, there was a Planet of the Apes television series that aired in 1974, set before the events of the first movie. There was also an animated series called Return to the Planet of the Apes in 1975.
5. Where does ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ fit into the timeline?
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is set several generations after the events of War for the Planet of the Apes, continuing the storyline from the reboot trilogy while introducing new characters and conflicts.
6. Are there any plans for future Planet of the Apes movies?
Yes, after the release of Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, 20th Century Studios has expressed interest in continuing the franchise. Future installments are likely to further explore the evolving dynamics between apes and humans.
7. Who is Caesar in the Planet of the Apes movies?
Caesar is a chimpanzee who gains human-like intelligence due to a genetically engineered virus in the reboot trilogy. He becomes the leader of the ape community and a symbol of hope and resistance. He is the son of Cornelius and Zira from the original series, brought to the present in Escape from the Planet of the Apes.
8. What are the main themes explored in the Planet of the Apes franchise?
The franchise explores themes such as humanity’s capacity for self-destruction, social injustice, racism, animal rights, the dangers of scientific hubris, and the cyclical nature of history. It often serves as a commentary on contemporary social and political issues.
9. What makes the Planet of the Apes movies so enduring?
The enduring appeal lies in its compelling story, thought-provoking themes, and memorable characters. The blend of science fiction, action, and social commentary resonates with audiences across generations. The groundbreaking special effects, particularly in the original films and the advanced motion capture in the reboot trilogy, have also contributed to its legacy.
10. How do the Planet of the Apes movies portray humans?
The portrayal of humans varies throughout the franchise. In the original films, humans are often depicted as primitive and less intelligent than the apes. In the reboot trilogy, humans are portrayed as both victims of a pandemic and perpetrators of violence against apes. There is a spectrum from outright villainy to sympathetic survivors.
11. What is the significance of the ALZ-113 virus in the reboot trilogy?
The ALZ-113 virus is a genetically engineered virus that enhances the intelligence of apes while proving fatal to humans. It is the catalyst for the ape uprising and the decline of human civilization.
12. Is there a definitive ending to the Planet of the Apes story?
There is no single, definitive ending to the Planet of the Apes story. Each era of the franchise has its own conclusion, often leaving room for further exploration of the ape-human dynamic. The open-ended nature allows for continuous reinvention and reimagining of the narrative.