The latest installment in the Planet of the Apes franchise, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, marks a significant milestone as the series reaches its tenth movie. With four films released in the modern iteration, the franchise has surpassed the number of movies produced during its original run in the 1960s and ’70s. Directed by Wes Ball, known for his work on the Maze Runner films and the upcoming Legend of Zelda movie, Kingdom takes a leap forward in time, bringing us closer to the narrative of the original film.
Unlike its predecessors, the first three movies in the rebooted series were a conclusion to the human world and Caesar’s story. Kingdom sets the stage for a new era for the apes, offering the audience a chance to rediscover the legacy of Caesar and the evolution of both human and ape civilizations. Wes Ball mentions that the various ape groups developing their civilizations provide a captivating foundation for the film, with different clans and tribes adding depth to the storyline.
While Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes explores a new chapter in the franchise, director Wes Ball has his eye on a long-term goal. The ultimate aim is to bridge the narrative gap between the modern series and the original 1968 film, where Charlton Heston crash lands on future Earth. Ball envisions a gradual build-up towards this iconic moment, emphasizing that there are still many stories to be told before reaching that pivotal scene. The idea of multiple ape societies evolving into intelligence serves as a key inspiration for the film’s direction.
Aspirations towards connecting the rebooted series with the original film are evident in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, although the timeline for reaching that goal remains ambiguous. Wes Ball acknowledges that the evolution of ape societies, including the eventual adoption of clothing, is a crucial step towards aligning with the original film. However, he remains cautious about the possibility of fully realizing this vision, hinting at the unpredictability of the franchise’s future direction.
Throughout Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, subtle visual cues hint at the transition towards a more advanced ape society. Characters like Raka and Proximus Caesar demonstrate the beginnings of adornments and clothing, mirroring human civilization. Wes Ball’s attention to detail in depicting this evolution reflects a nuanced approach to storytelling, setting the stage for future developments in the franchise.
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes represents a pivotal moment in the franchise’s history, charting a new course for the apes and humans in a post-apocalyptic world. With Wes Ball’s directorial vision guiding the narrative towards a potential convergence with the original 1968 film, the series holds promise for exciting and unpredictable storytelling. As the Planet of the Apes saga continues to evolve, audiences can look forward to a blend of legacy and innovation in future installments.
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