Pub.lished Movie Reviews
Planet of the Apes (1968)
"This is one of the most entertaining science-fiction fantasies ever to come out of Hollywood. An American astronaut finds himself in the future, on a planet run by apes; the audience is rushed along with this hero, who keeps going as fast as possible to avoid being castrated or lobotomized. All this wouldn't be so forceful or so funny if it weren't for the use of Charlton Heston in the role. With his perfect, lean-hipped, powerful body, Heston is a godlike hero; built for strength, he's an archetype of what makes Americans win. He doesn't play a nice guy; he's harsh and hostile, self-centered and hot-tempered. Yet we don't hate him because he's so magnetically strong; The makeup (there is said to be a million dollars' worth) and the costuming of the actors playing the apes are rather witty, and the apes have a wonderful nervous, hopping walk. The best little hopper is Kim Hunter, as an ape lady doctor; she somehow manages to give a distinctive, charming performance in this makeup." - Pauline Kael
If you haven't seen any of the "Planet of the Apes" films, do yourself a favor. Watch this one first, then the amazing prequels.
Because "Planet of the Apes" still holds up, sixty years later.
Which is incredible for an action movie, and phenomenal for a science fiction movie.
Sure, the monkey costumes look quaint, the backgrounds are clearly painted.
But we have the inimitable Charlton Heston in the lead, the action is fast-paced, even by today's standards, and they retained enough of Rod Serling's original script to result in a satisfying ending.
While Rod Serling's script originally called for Apes to be more technologically advanced, the producers decided to place the apes in the era of gunpowder. While this allowed the producers to halve the production cost, it also gives the movie a more timeless appeal.
So what is not to like? Simply one thing bothers me. We are on an alien planet, perhaps millions of miles from Earth, where they speak perfect Queen's English. Or is it King's English now?
There are plenty of rationales. In fact, the prequel trilogy neatly explains everything. But that still doesn't explain why Charlton Heston's character never expresses surprise that ape-like aliens speak English.
Deep down we know that the movie makers should have had the apes speak some alien language. Even a few hundred years ago English was unintelligible to us today, and this is thousands of years in the future and millions of miles away.
While it is a small thing, this one small thing constantly grates on me, constantly reminding me that I am watching a movie instead of being inside the movie, and therefore makes the movie less immersive.
"Take your stinking paws off me, you damned dirty ape!"
- You're not a fan of classic sci-fi movies.
- You dislike films with social commentary.
- You have young children, as there are some violent scenes which may not be suitable for them.
- You prefer movies with modern, high-tech special effects.
Warning: The following may contain spoilers:
What's the deal with "Planet of the Apes"? I mean, are we just running low on vacation spots that we have to resort to a planet full of monkeys? And not just any monkeys, but English-speaking, government-forming, religion-following human-hating monkeys. Now, that's a travel brochure I'd like to see.
And what's going on with astronaut George Taylor? He blasts off from Earth in 1972, but then he lands on this Ape Planet in 3978. That's some serious jet lag, folks. You think you feel rough after a long-haul flight, try waking up 2000 years in the future. No wonder he seems kinda tetchy.
And how about the monkey make-up? It's so good, I can't tell if it's Charlton Heston in a mask or an actual ape.
And the irony of Taylor being captured and kept in a cage. I mean, talk about a role reversal! One minute you're a human, top of the food chain, next minute you're a pet in a primate's zoo.
"Planet of the Apes" gives a whole new meaning to "monkey business". If this is what the future looks like, I think I'll stick to the present, thank you very much. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go check on my banana stocks.
- Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
- Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
- War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
Jaws (1975)
Lovers of "Planet of the Apes" (1968) will love "Jaws" (1975) because both movies are groundbreaking for their time, introducing innovative ideas and techniques in filmmaking. They both showcase suspense and the art of storytelling, dealing with unexpected challenges during production that ultimately enhance the final product. Just as "Planet of the Apes" engages with its dystopian setting and social commentaries, "Jaws" captures attention through its suspenseful oceanic thriller narrative.
The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951)A classic from the golden age of Hollywood, "The Day the Earth Stood Still" is thought-provoking and loaded with social commentary, much like "Planet of the Apes." It uses the science fiction genre to explore themes of peace, humanity, and global responsibility.
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)Lovers of "Planet of the Apes" (1968) will appreciate "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory" (1971) for its similar blend of fantasy and social commentary, coupled with memorable performances, in this case by Gene Wilder. Despite a slight flaw of disproportionate focus on Wonka over Charlie, its immersive experience and unexpected elements echo the intrigue of the Apes’ universe.
2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)If you love "Planet of the Apes" for its pioneering effects and imaginative storytelling, you might likewise appreciate "2001: A Space Odyssey." Stanley Kubrick's classic is not only a technical marvel but also a philosophical exploration of human evolution, AI, and extraterrestrial life.
The Terminator (1984)"Planet of the Apes" fans will love "The Terminator" because of its compelling story of a relentless, non-human antagonist, like the apes, disrupting a peaceful existence. Similarly, both movies feature a narrative of survival against formidable foes. The originality of both plotlines, coupled with the gritty, desperate atmosphere and top-notch acting, creates a thrilling viewing experience. Despite the modest special effects in "The Terminator," akin to "Planet of the Apes," the films' impactful storytelling overshadows any technological shortcomings. Furthermore, the iconic line "I'll be back" resonates with the memorable dialogues in "Planet of the Apes," adding another layer of likeness.
Alien (1979)Aficionados of "Planet of the Apes" (1968) will love "Alien" (1979) due to its groundbreaking depiction of a strong female lead, a similar thrilling, suspenseful narrative involving non-human threats, and its unexpected plot twists that challenge traditional expectations.
Psycho (1960)"Planet of the Apes" and "Psycho" are iconic films of their respective genres, offering unexpected plot twists, thought-provoking narratives, and memorable performances. They both revolutionized storytelling in cinema and continue to influence filmmakers today.
Poltergeist (1982)"Planet of the Apes" and "Poltergeist" are classic films that offer thrilling and suspenseful storylines filled with sci-fi elements and unexpected twists, appealing to fans of intense, thought-provoking cinema.
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982)films are iconic in the science fiction genre, featuring complex storytelling, creative world-building and philosophical explorations of humanity.
Aliens (1986)movies offer groundbreaking special effects, iconic lines, intense action scenes, and thought-provoking commentary on humanity. They both have strong narratives centered around survival in an alien environment.
Spider-Man 2 (2004)films offer compelling storytelling, iconic characters, and groundbreaking special effects for their respective eras, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.
Logan's Run (1976):Like "Planet of the Apes," "Logan's Run" is a thought-provoking sci-fi film set in a distinctive dystopian future. It tackles themes of freedom, youth, and societal control. Its set pieces and elaborate cityscapes made it a groundbreaking film for its time.
Planet of the Apes (2001):As a fan of the original "Planet of the Apes," you might be interested in Tim Burton's 2001 reimagining. While divisive among fans, it offers a fresh visual take on the classic story and its ape society.
Mad Max: Fury Road (2015):"Mad Max: Fury Road" may appeal to "Planet of the Apes" fans due to the shared themes of survival in a post-apocalyptic world. The film provides visceral and thrilling action sequences with minimal dialog, which makes it an unforgettable viewing experience.
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