How Long is War for the Planet of the Apes?
The Planet of the Apes franchise has been thrilling audiences for decades with its thought-provoking storyline and stunning visuals. One of the most recent additions to the franchise is War for the Planet of the Apes (2017), a prequel to the original 1968 film. In this article, we’ll explore the length of the film, its pacing, and what makes it a thrilling conclusion to the trilogy.
How Long is War for the Planet of the Apes?
Before diving into the details, let’s answer the question straight away: War for the Planet of the Apes has a runtime of 140 minutes (2 hours and 20 minutes).
Breaking Down the Pacing
With a lengthy runtime, one might wonder if the film feels overly long or dragged out. However, director Matt Reeves does an excellent job of balancing action, emotion, and character development throughout the movie. Here’s a breakdown of the pacing:
- Action-packed opening: The film kicks off with a heart-pumping sequence that sets the tone for the rest of the movie. Expect non-stop action and intense combat scenes. ( approximately 20-25 minutes)
- Emotional character moments: The story delves into the characters’ backstories, showcasing their motivations and emotions. This is where the film slows down, allowing viewers to connect with the apes on a deeper level. (approximately 40-45 minutes)
- Mid-portion: exploration and escape: The film takes a slightly more cerebral approach as Caesar and his troop try to evade capture and escape from the humans. Expect more slow-burning tension and suspense. (approximately 30-35 minutes)
- Conclusion and finale: The film builds up to an epic showdown between the apes and humans, culminating in a climactic conclusion. Expect high-octane action and emotional moments. (approximately 30-35 minutes)
Why the Length Matters
So, why is War for the Planet of the Apes so long? Here are a few reasons:
- Complex characters: The film explores the complexities of the apes’ world, delving into themes like identity, community, and the consequences of violence. This requires a deeper character focus, which translates to a longer runtime.
- Thematic depth: The movie tackles weighty themes like humanity, morality, and the struggle for survival. These ideas are woven throughout the story, adding depth and nuance to the narrative.
- Cinematic ambition: The film features stunning visuals, impressive practical effects, and a strong score. This level of production quality demands a more deliberate pacing, allowing viewers to absorb the world and characters.
Comparison to Other Films
To put the length of War for the Planet of the Apes into perspective, here are some comparable films and their runtimes:
| Film | Runtime |
|---|---|
| The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers | 179 minutes |
| The Dark Knight | 162 minutes |
| Mad Max: Fury Road | 120 minutes |
| 2001: A Space Odyssey | 141 minutes |
As you can see, War for the Planet of the Apes falls within a similar range to other acclaimed, action-packed films. However, it’s worth noting that the pacing and balance of the film make the length feel less overwhelming than some of its counterparts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, War for the Planet of the Apes is a thought-provoking, visually stunning film that requires a significant runtime to deliver its complex story and characters. The pacing is well-balanced, with action-packed moments, emotional character beats, and thematic depth. While it may feel long to some viewers, the film’s length is ultimately justified by its ambition and execution.
