Humans and apes. Are we really that different from each other? Our sense of community, our quest for survival, our emotions, whether buried or released, are all the same for both species. In the film War for the Planet of the Apes, we simultaneously celebrate and despise the similarities of the two species.
As the wildly unpredictable Colonel (Woody Harrelson) escalates the battle with the apes, Caesar (Andy Serkis) is forced to fight to preserve the species he loves. Though Caesar has always kept an open mind about humans, there are moments that will push even the most level-headed individual over the edge. And when that breaking point is met, it becomes war.
As the apes struggle to survive, their human foes capture and exploit them for the Colonel’s special project. The apes work with little food or water and are used for their strength and ability to follow orders. With their leader Caesar now in captivity with them, the apes realize that they must rise up to end this evil situation. And Caesar knows they must do it soon.
Set in a beautiful environment, this Apes film deserves to be seen with no distractions. We need to be able to think about what we are experiencing.
And when we think about it, the parallels to humanity through the years are amazing. That realization will have you in tears at times as we see the abuse that the apes are subjected to for no reason other than that they are apes. Director Matt Reeves weaves an amazing combination of big action sequences and quiet compelling moments and delivers the film one would hope to get.
Despite Reeves’ work and all he brings to the film, the films in this new Apes revival would be NOTHING without the talents of Andy Serkis. Although he is motion-captured in his performance as Caesar, he delivers the emotion necessary to make the leader of the apes more than just a caricature. Serkis is able to infuse himself into the role of Caesar, and isn’t that what we look for in an actor? It’s a master class, by a true master.
There are moments that are quiet and slow the pace, but they just add to the mystique of the film. Let there be no question: The winner of War for the Planet of the Apes is moviegoers everywhere. It’s a cerebral action film and I am enamored with it.
War for the Planet of the Apes is available On Demand beginning Oct. 24. Check your cable provider for availability.
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