Review of Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024)

General Information

• Director: Wes Ball
• Main Cast:
  • Owen Teague
  • Freya Allan
  • Peter Macon
  • Eka Darville
• Genre: Sci-Fi, Action, Adventure
• Release Date: 2024

Plot Expectations

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is set to be the latest installment in the Planet of the Apes franchise, following the events of War for the Planet of the Apes (2017), which concluded the trilogy centered on Caesar (Andy Serkis). This new film will explore a post-apocalyptic world, where the legacy of Caesar’s leadership lives on among the ape society. The movie is expected to follow a new generation of apes and humans navigating the consequences of the war between species and the establishment of a new order for the planet.

The plot will likely focus on the evolving relationship between the apes and any remaining human survivors. Themes of power, civilization, and the struggle for freedom will continue to be central, as the apes attempt to form their own society after the fall of human dominance.

Highlights (Based on Expectations)

1. A New Generation of Apes
   • This installment is expected to feature new ape characters taking the spotlight, potentially including the descendants of Caesar and his followers. Their struggle to build a peaceful, sustainable society will bring new dynamics and challenges into play, offering fresh perspectives while still drawing on the themes of the previous films.
2. Technological Advancements in Visual Effects
   • As with the previous films, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes will likely showcase groundbreaking visual effects, particularly in the depiction of the apes. The motion capture technology that brought the apes to life in the previous films will continue to be a hallmark of the series, allowing for realistic and expressive portrayals of the characters.
3. Expanding the World of the Apes
   • With the destruction of much of human civilization in previous films, the world of the apes is now an unknown, post-apocalyptic landscape. The film will likely explore the ruins of old human cities, while also depicting the growth and development of ape culture. Expect new settings, new types of apes, and potentially new threats that emerge as the balance of power shifts.
4. Themes of Leadership and Society
   • The theme of leadership and how societies rebuild themselves will be central to the story. Much like Caesar’s struggle, new ape leaders will face difficult decisions in establishing a new kingdom while managing power struggles, ethics, and relations with humans.
5. New Human-Ape Conflicts
   • With the fall of the human race in earlier films, any surviving humans will likely play a crucial role in the plot, either as allies or adversaries. The potential for human and ape tensions to resurface could serve as a major plot point, raising the stakes in terms of survival and cohabitation.

Anticipated Performances

• Owen Teague: As the lead ape, Teague is expected to bring a nuanced portrayal of a new generation of apes. His character may be central to the themes of leadership and identity within ape society.
• Freya Allan and Peter Macon: With Freya Allan potentially portraying a key ape character, expect her to bring a sense of growth and complexity to the social fabric of the apes. Peter Macon, known for his strong performances, could offer the gravitas needed to make his character a formidable presence.

Visuals and Cinematic Quality

• The film’s cinematography will likely continue the franchise’s tradition of visually stunning landscapes, whether it’s the ruins of human cities or the lush, thriving environments where the apes build their new civilization. Expect awe-inspiring action sequences, combined with intimate moments that showcase the emotional depth of the characters.

Conclusion

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is poised to expand the legacy of the Planet of the Apes franchise, delving into new territory with fresh characters, a new generation of apes, and complex themes of power and survival. With high expectations for visual effects, strong character development, and an exploration of ape society’s evolution, this new chapter promises to bring more thrills, philosophical undertones, and emotional depth to the saga.

Anticipation Rating: 8/10