Synopsis: In this thrilling third installment of the Planet of the Apes reboot series, the story follows the next generation of apes as they navigate the challenges of building a new society.
Cast:
- Eka Darville as Cornelius
- Neil Sandilands as Wes
- Sara Wiseman as Ada
- Owen Teague as Asher
- Kevin Durand as Grey
Crew:
- Director: Wes Ball
- Screenwriter: Josh Friedman, Rick Jaffa, Amanda Silver
- Release date: May 17, 2024
- Running Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Motion Picture Rating (MPA): PG-13 for sequences of sci-fi violence and action, thematic elements, and some language
- Distributor: 20th Century Studios
Story Summary: “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” takes place many years after the events of “War for the Planet of the Apes.” The story follows Cornelius, the son of Caesar, as he assumes leadership of the ape colony. As Cornelius navigates the complexities of building a new society, he must confront the threats of both humans and apes who seek to destroy their kingdom.
A Review: “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that explores the complexities of power, loyalty, and identity. The film’s impressive world-building and thoughtful character development make it a compelling addition to the Planet of the Apes franchise.
The cast delivers strong performances, with Eka Darville shining as the charismatic and vulnerable Cornelius. The film’s themes of community, compassion, and the struggle for peace are timely and impactful.
While the pacing can be uneven at times, the film’s stunning action sequences and emotional payoffs make it a thrilling ride. Fans of the franchise will be pleased with the nods to the original series, while new viewers will be drawn in by the compelling characters and story.
Critical Response: “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” has received widespread critical acclaim for its thought-provoking themes, impressive world-building, and strong performances. The film holds a 92% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many critics praising its emotional resonance and visual grandeur.
Three Life Lessons:
- Leadership requires compassion and empathy: Cornelius’s journey as a leader teaches us that true strength comes from understanding and relating to others.
- Community is key to survival: The apes’ struggles and triumphs demonstrate the importance of unity and cooperation in the face of adversity.
- Forgiveness and understanding can lead to peace: The film’s exploration of human-ape relations highlights the need for empathy and understanding in resolving conflicts.
Conclusion: “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is a thrilling and thought-provoking addition to the Planet of the Apes franchise. With its impressive world-building, strong performances, and timely themes, it’s a must-see for fans of science fiction and adventure.
Where to Stream: The film will be available to stream on Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video after its theatrical run.
Comment Prompt: What do you think is the most important lesson from the Planet of the Apes franchise? Share your thoughts in the comments!