What is War for the Planet of the Apes About?
War for the Planet of the Apes is a 2017 American science fiction film directed by Matt Reeves. It is the third installment in the Planet of the Apes reboot series, following Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011) and Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014). The film follows a group of intelligent gorillas, chimpanzees, and orangutans who are on the run from a ruthless human militia led by a tyrannical colonel.
The Story
The story takes place after the events of Dawn of the Planet of the Apes. The ape leader, Caesar (Andy Serkis), is still dealing with the trauma of losing his son, Cornelius. Meanwhile, a group of humans, led by a ruthless colonel (Woody Harrelson), are seeking to wipe out the apes once and for all.
What’s at Stake
As Caesar and his loyal group of apes, including Maurice (Karin Konoval), Buck (Toby Kebbell), and Bad Ape (Judy Greer), embark on a perilous journey to find a new home, they are met with formidable challenges. They are relentlessly pursued by the humans, who are driven by a fanatical desire to dominate and destroy the apes.
Themes
HUMANITY AND DOMINION
War for the Planet of the Apes explores the themes of humanity and dominance, posing questions about the nature of society and the relationship between humans and animals. The film shows how humans have been brutalized by their own selfish desires, leading to chaos and destruction.
LEADERSHIP AND DICTATORSHIP
Caesar’s leadership is challenged as he faces difficult decisions about the future of the apes. He is torn between his desire for peace and his need to protect his people. In contrast, Colonel Hiller is a ruthless dictator who sees the apes as inferior and worthy only of extermination.
RELATIONSHIPS AND IDENTITY
The film delves into the complexities of relationships and identity. Caesar struggles to reconcile his apes’ natural instincts with his own desire for intelligence and humanity. The bond between Caesar and his ape companions is put to the test as they face new challenges and losses.
Characters
- Caesar (Andy Serkis): The leader of the apes, Caesar is a intelligent, compassionate, and charismatic leader who fights for his people’s survival.
- Colonel Hiller (Woody Harrelson): A ruthless and fanatical military leader who seeks to eliminate the apes and prove humanity’s dominance.
- Maurice (Karin Konoval): Caesar’s trusted advisor and a gentle gorilla who provides wise counsel.
- Bad Ape (Judy Greer): A mischievous and unpredictable orangutan who has lost his family and now fights alongside the apes.
Critical Acclaim
War for the Planet of the Apes has received widespread critical acclaim, with many praising the film’s:
- Innovative Visual Effects: The film’s CGI technology and motion capture work created stunning and realistic apes, earning praise from critics and audiences alike.
- Emotional Depth: The film’s emotional intensity and character development made for a compelling and affecting storyline.
- Action-Packed: The film’s thrilling action sequences and tense set pieces kept viewers on the edge of their seats.
Awards and Nominations
War for the Planet of the Apes has been nominated for several awards, including:
| Award | Category | Winner/Nominee |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Globe | Best Original Score | Scored by Michael Giacchino |
| Critics’ Choice Movie Awards | Best Visual Effects | Won |
| Satellite Awards | Best Sound | Won |
| Saturn Awards | Best Science Fiction Film | Won |
Conclusion
War for the Planet of the Apes is a gripping and emotionally resonant film that explores the complex themes of humanity, dominance, and leadership. With its stunning visual effects, thrilling action sequences, and compelling characters, this film is a must-see for fans of the series and science fiction in general.
Key Takeaways
- The film follows Caesar and his ape companions as they flee from a ruthless human militia and fight for survival.
- Themes of humanity and dominance, leadership and dictatorship, and relationships and identity are central to the story.
- The film features stunning visual effects, thrilling action sequences, and emotionally resonant character development.
- It has received widespread critical acclaim and has been nominated for several awards.
