The Planet of the Apes franchise has captivated audiences for decades, but which films rise above the rest? Prepare for a journey through this iconic series, as we rank the movies from the least ape-peeling to the ultimate banana of the bunch!
The Great Ape-peal:
Planet of the Apes (1968): The original masterpiece that started it all. Franklin J. Schaffer's groundbreaking film set the bar high with its iconic makeup, powerful score, and Charlton Heston's legendary performance. Its ending is a mind-bending classic, leaving audiences stunned. But is it truly untouchable?
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014): Matt Reeves' entry into the reboot trilogy shines with a delicate balance between human and ape screen time. Gary Oldman's nuanced portrayal of a sympathetic antagonist adds depth to the story, making it a standout in the franchise.
War for the Planet of the Apes (2017): The trilogy concludes with an epic war film, showcasing the battle for dominance. While some may find it overly dark, it provides a fitting end to the reboot saga and features a remarkable motion-capture performance by Andy Serkis.
Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011): A mixed bag for some, this film introduces the beloved Caesar, played by Serkis. Despite James Franco's underwhelming performance, the focus on Caesar's journey and John Lithgow's emotional portrayal elevate the movie.
Escape From the Planet of the Apes (1971): This sequel takes a surprising turn, starting with a light tone and ending with a tragic twist. It sets the stage for the entire franchise, showcasing the apes' journey through time and their impact on the future.
Controversial Contenders:
Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972): With a reduced budget, this film tackles sensitive themes of race relations, mirroring the Civil Rights movement. The uncensored Blu-ray version reveals a bolder, more radical take on sci-fi, but does it resonate with modern audiences?
Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970): A sequel with a smaller budget, it brings back Charlton Heston for a pivotal cameo. While it lacks the grandeur of its predecessor, it ends on a gloomy note, leaving a lasting impression.
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024): Wes Ball's film is a tale of two halves. The exploration of ape culture is captivating, but the human-centric elements feel familiar. Could this be a missed opportunity for a fresh direction?
Planet of the Apes (2001): Tim Burton's remake is a divisive entry. While the practical makeup FX is impressive, Mark Wahlberg's performance pales in comparison to Heston's. A financial success, but did it capture the essence of the original?
Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1972): The lowest-budgeted film in the original series, it suffers from production limitations. Roddy McDowell's performance shines, but the film feels like a step down from its predecessors.
And there you have it, apes and humans alike! But wait, did we miss something? Which film do you think deserves a higher spot? Or do you have a controversial take on these rankings? Share your thoughts and let the debate begin!
