The Planet of the Apes franchise has held its ground in Hollywood for over 50 years now. It’s a series full of surprises with films that may vary but none of them are downright bad. Here’s our lowdown, ranking each film from okay-ish to top-notch.
Planet of the Apes – 2001
Starting the list is Tim Burton’s 2001 take on the classic. Mostly known for Mark Wahlberg’s early acting stint, it didn’t impress the loyal fans. Even though it made decent money, it wasn’t quite the base needed for a thriving franchise. But, the makeup by Rick Baker is unforgettable, making it a movie you should catch once.
Battle for the Planet of the Apes – 1972
Tight budget constraints left this sequel struggling on the production front, earning it the title of the most budget-looking Apes film. Still, Roddy McDowell’s superb portrayal and the quirky supporting cast redeem the film.
Beneath the Planet of the Apes – 1970
Expectations were high for this sequel, but a lower budget affected its overall quality. However, a strong cameo by Charlton Heston and James Franciscus’s lead role does leave an enduring, if gloomy, impression.
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes – 2024
Wes Ball’s recent offering explores Ape Culture with an interesting narrative. Despite mixed reactions from fans due to a human-focused plot, it still holds promise for future additions to the franchise.
Escape from the Planet of the Apes – 1971
Starting on a happy note and ending in tragedy, this film tees up the rest of the series perfectly. A rollercoaster of emotions, it’s a must-see for any Planet of the Apes fan.
Rise of the Planet of the Apes – 2011
James Franco’s performance in this film divided the audience. However, Andy Serkis’s motion capture work in this movie turned it into a cherished part of the series.
War for the Planet of the Apes – 2017
The finale of the reboot trilogy was a shade darker than most expected, earning it mixed reviews. Nevertheless, it proved a platform for Andy Serkis to return, and introduced Woody Harrelson as a widely despised human villain.
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes – 2014
Considered as the best among the reboot trilogy, the movie balances the plot between humans and apes. Plus, it features one of the series’ most empathetic foes, making it a fan-favorite.
Conquest of the Planet of the Apes – 1972
As the budget cuts deepened, the series took on more daring subjects. This film explored the tense race relations in America at the time, transforming it into a bold piece of sci-fi cinema.
Planet of the Apes – 1968
At the top of our list is the groundbreaking original film. Known for its revolutionary special effects, catchy musical score, and Heston’s epic performance, its shocking conclusion places it as the franchise’s finest. But remember, it’s subjective; each Planet of the Apes film has its exceptional flair leaving an irreversible imprint on sci-fi history.
The Planet of the Apes series is a Hollywood heavyweight for a reason. It has consistently kept audiences on their toes, across generations, proving its worth as a cinematic tour de force. So, grab some popcorn, get comfy, and explore the evolution of our favorite primates on-screen!
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