The latest installment in the ‘Planet of the Apes’ series, ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,’ is now available for streaming on Disney+ Hotstar. Directed by Wes Ball, this fourth film in the reboot series has garnered attention for its captivating visuals and stellar performances. Following its successful theatrical release in May, where it earned over $397 million against a budget of $160 million, the film has found a new audience on the streaming platform. Here’s a detailed review of what you can expect from this sci-fi adventure.
‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’: Story Overview
Set generations after the death of the iconic character Caesar, the movie portrays a world where apes have formed their own clans while humans live as scavengers. The story focuses on Noa (played by Owen Teague) and his Eagle Clan. Proximus Caesar (played by Kevin Durand), who has distorted Caesar’s teachings, hunts humans to gain superiority. The plot thickens when Noa encounters Mae (played by Freya Allan), leading to a series of conflicts that change their lives.
The movie begins with Noa’s encounter with Mae, which results in the destruction of his home by Proximus Caesar. In search of his clan, Noa ventures into unknown territories and meets Raka (played by Peter Macon), who reveals the true history of apes and humans during Caesar’s era. As Proximus Caesar captures Noa and Mae, the story unfolds into a battle for freedom and justice.
‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’: Performances and Characters
Owen Teague as Noa
Owen Teague shines as Noa, delivering a compelling performance that stands out when viewed independently from the previous films. His portrayal of Noa’s growth and resilience keeps the audience engaged, especially during the film’s climax. Teague’s nuanced performance and chemistry with co-stars bring depth to his character.
Peter Macon as Raka
Peter Macon as Raka offers a touching portrayal of a nurturing figure. Although his screen time is limited, Macon leaves a lasting impression with his heartfelt performance, capturing the essence of Raka’s warmth and wisdom.
Kevin Durand as Proximus Caesar
Kevin Durand excels as the antagonist Proximus Caesar, embodying the menacing leader with confidence. His strong screen presence and convincing portrayal of a tyrannical ruler make him a formidable foe to Noa.
Freya Allan as Mae
Freya Allan’s Mae evolves from a hesitant follower to a decisive character by the film’s end. Her transformation and the climactic scenes showcase her acting prowess, adding another layer to the story.
‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’: Direction, Script, and Technical Aspects
Direction by Wes Ball
Director Wes Ball, known for ‘The Maze Runner’ series, brings his expertise to this project. Despite the film’s length, Ball ensures that each scene serves a purpose, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish. His attention to detail and ability to weave together multiple elements results in a visually stunning and cohesive film.
Writing by Josh Friedman
Josh Friedman‘s script tackles themes such as human emotions, evolution, and survival. The well-written plot and distinct characters make the film thought-provoking without being preachy. The dialogue adds depth to the narrative, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Technical Brilliance
The movie’s appeal is significantly boosted by its impressive camerawork and production design. The opening scene, where Noa falls while grabbing an eagle egg, is a testament to the film’s technical prowess. The seamless camera movement and breathtaking visuals create an immersive experience. The meticulously crafted sets, from the dense forests to the imposing kingdom of Proximus Caesar, reflect a high level of production quality.
‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’: Cast & Crew
- Director: Wes Ball
- Writer: Josh Friedman
- Cast: Owen Teague, Kevin Durand, Peter Macon, Lydia Peckham, Travis Jeffery, Freya Allan, William H. Macy
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar
- Duration: 2 hours 24 minutes
- Languages: English
Final Verdict
While ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes‘ is suitable for children with parental guidance, the film’s themes and intense scenes may require supervision. The key to enjoying this movie is to appreciate it as a standalone film rather than comparing it to previous installments. Although it may not reach the depth of its predecessors, Wes Ball’s direction and the strong performances make it a worthy addition to the franchise. With its engaging story and impressive technical execution, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is a great choice for a weekend binge.
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