

Anyone interested in embarking on a tour through the original movies and the new trilogy can expect to go from one of the unquestioned pillars of sci-fi and one of the most famous plot twists in cinema, to some lesser but uniquely compelling sequels that pull no punches, to one of the most effective and inspired franchise revitalizations in recent memory. Like any long-running franchise, the "Planet of the Apes" movies share a fascinating developmental history and a colorful selection of very high highs set against infamously low lows. Honestly, I just loved finding out what lead to the great ape takeover.( Welcome to Where to Watch, which provides a clear and simple answer to the question, "Hey, where can I watch this thing?" In this edition: the Planet of the Apes movies.) They were brilliant! Director Rupert Wyatt did a wonderful job of connecting this prequel to the first film, really catching every little detail and even littered respectful homages to the original throughout the entire film. If I hadn't known it were CGI, though, I would have sworn that they were real apes.

Unlike the Planet of the Apes films from the past, this one did not have people running around in ape suits but instead presented us with CGI primates, emotional performances captured from actors. It is during an incident that causes Caesar to be separated from Will, in a feeling of abandonment, and then being mistreated by Dodge Landon (Tom Felton) at a shelter that ultimately leads to a hurt and confused Caesar plotting for revenge. As Caesar grows older and smarter, though, he becomes more aware, questioning who and what he is. it lead to the development of intelligence in apes. The star of the film is an ape named Caesar (whose emotions were brought to life brilliantly by Andy Serkis) who is the baby of an ape that was tested on for scientist Will Rodman's (James Franco) research in an effort that resulted in a way for the brain to heal itself, and what could possibly be the cure for Alzheimer's a disease very personal for him because his father (John Lithgow) suffers from it - even though Rodman is warned not to let personal issues get in the way of science. It was just absolutely spectacular! The actors delivered fine performances for their well developed characters the writers, Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver, didn't miss a beat with their fantastic and intelligent script and the story was compelling, exciting and emotionally touching.

Out of the entire series of movies, I think this one truly is the best.

I'm a big fan of Planet of the Apes and to get to see its origins is really great. If you're like me, you will be completely fascinated by the story of this film.
