War for the Planet of the Apes: A Thematic Conclusion
The War for the Planet of the Apes (2017) is a thought-provoking film that concludes the trilogy started by Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011) and Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014). The movie delves into the theme of war, exploring the devastating consequences of human conflict on the planet and its inhabitants. In this article, we will delve into the conclusion of the war and explore the significance of the film’s ending.
The War’s Conclusion
The war between humans and apes reaches its climax in the final act of the film. Colonel McCullough (Woody Harrelson), a ruthless and ideological human leader, is determined to wipe out the apes and establish a human-only society. Meanwhile, Caesar (Andy Serkis), the intelligent and compassionate ape leader, is determined to protect his people and create a new home for them.
As the war rages on, both sides suffer heavy losses. The humans, led by Colonel McCullough, employ brutal tactics, including the use of gas bombs to disperse the ape population. The apes, on the other hand, fight back with guerrilla warfare and tactics learned from their encounters with humans.
The Turning Point
The turning point of the war comes when Bad Ape (Amiah Miller), a young and traumatized ape, is introduced to the apes. Bad Ape’s past is marked by human cruelty and abuse, which has left him with a deep-seated fear of humans. Caesar recognizes the potential danger that Bad Ape poses and decides to take him under his wing, hoping to rehabilitate him and use him as a potential ally.
The Confrontation
The confrontation between Caesar and Colonel McCullough is a poignant and intense moment in the film. Caesar, aware of the devastating consequences of war, is determined to find a peaceful resolution. He proposes a ceasefire and suggests that the apes and humans work together to rebuild the planet. However, Colonel McCullough is unwilling to listen and continues to pursue his ideology.
The Tragic Consequences
The war ends in tragedy, with the apes suffering heavy losses. Maurice (Karin Konoval), Caesar’s loyal friend and ally, is killed in the conflict. The apes are forced to flee their home and seek refuge in a remote location.
The Significance of the Conclusion
The conclusion of War for the Planet of the Apes is significant for several reasons:
• The futility of war: The film highlights the devastating consequences of war, emphasizing the importance of finding peaceful solutions to conflicts.
• The destructive nature of human ideology: Colonel McCullough’s ideology is rooted in racism and xenophobia, illustrating the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of challenging harmful beliefs.
• The resilience of the apes: Despite the challenges they face, the apes continue to adapt and evolve, serving as a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
The Legacy of the Trilogy
The Planet of the Apes trilogy has left a lasting impact on the sci-fi genre, exploring complex themes and ideas. The films have also raised important questions about speciesism, racism, and human nature.
Table: Themes and Ideas Explored in the Trilogy
| Theme/Idea | Films |
|---|---|
| Speciesism | Rise, Dawn, War |
| Racism | War |
| Human Nature | Rise, Dawn, War |
| Trauma and PTSD | Dawn, War |
| Evolution and Adaptation | Rise, Dawn, War |
Conclusion
The conclusion of War for the Planet of the Apes is a powerful commentary on the devastating consequences of war and the importance of finding peaceful solutions to conflicts. The film’s exploration of themes such as speciesism, racism, and human nature has left a lasting impact on the sci-fi genre. As we look to the future, it is essential that we continue to explore these complex ideas and work towards a more compassionate and understanding world.
Recommendation
For those interested in exploring the themes and ideas presented in War for the Planet of the Apes, we recommend watching the entire Planet of the Apes trilogy. Additionally, readers may find it beneficial to explore other films and media that explore complex themes and ideas, such as Blade Runner (1982) and District 9 (2009).
