The Planet of the Apes franchise is one of the most iconic and enduring sci-fi series in cinema history. From its groundbreaking debut in 1968 to the highly acclaimed modern trilogy, the series has captivated audiences with its thrilling action, deep philosophical themes, and unforgettable characters. In this article, we’ll explore the Planet of the Apes movies in order, providing insights into each film and how it contributes to the overall narrative of this epic saga.
1. Planet of the Apes (1968)
Description: A sci-fi classic that launched the legendary franchise.
Overview and Features
Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner, "Planet of the Apes" is a cinematic landmark in the science fiction genre. The film follows astronaut George Taylor (Charlton Heston), who crash-lands on a mysterious planet where intelligent apes rule over primitive humans. As Taylor navigates this strange world, he uncovers shocking truths about the planet and its origins, leading to one of the most iconic twist endings in film history.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
The original "Planet of the Apes" is celebrated for its thought-provoking narrative, impressive makeup effects, and deep social commentary. It explores themes of power, race, and the dangers of nuclear war, making it a timeless piece of science fiction. The film’s famous twist ending, where Taylor discovers the ruins of the Statue of Liberty, remains one of the most memorable moments in cinematic history.
Unique Description: The original sci-fi classic with an unforgettable twist.
IMDb Score: 8.0
2. Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970)
Description: A sequel that dives deeper into the apocalyptic world of the apes.
Overview and Features
Directed by Ted Post, "Beneath the Planet of the Apes" continues the story of the first film, following astronaut Brent (James Franciscus) as he searches for Taylor. As Brent explores the planet, he discovers a group of mutant humans living underground who worship a doomsday weapon. Meanwhile, tensions between the ape factions rise, leading to a cataclysmic confrontation.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Beneath the Planet of the Apes" expands on the original film’s themes, introducing new characters and exploring the devastating effects of nuclear war. The film’s darker tone and explosive climax make it a worthy follow-up, while its exploration of the post-apocalyptic landscape provides further depth to the world of the apes.
Unique Description: A dark and explosive sequel to the original sci-fi hit.
IMDb Score: 6.1
3. Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971)
Description: The apes travel back in time to modern-day Earth.
Overview and Features
Directed by Don Taylor, "Escape from the Planet of the Apes" takes the franchise in a new direction by reversing the roles. After the destruction of the planet in the previous film, three apes—Cornelius (Roddy McDowall), Zira (Kim Hunter), and Dr. Milo—escape by traveling back in time to 1970s Earth. They become media sensations but soon face danger when humans realize the apes' future dominance.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Escape from the Planet of the Apes" offers a fresh take on the series by placing the intelligent apes in a modern human society. The film explores themes of fear, prejudice, and fate, while maintaining the emotional depth of its characters. It’s a poignant and thought-provoking entry in the franchise that sets up the events of the later films.
Unique Description: Time-traveling apes arrive on modern-day Earth.
IMDb Score: 6.3
4. Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972)
Description: The dawn of the ape uprising against humanity.
Overview and Features
Directed by J. Lee Thompson, "Conquest of the Planet of the Apes" is a powerful prequel that tells the story of how the apes rise up against their human oppressors. Set in a dystopian future where apes are enslaved by humans, the film follows Caesar (Roddy McDowall), the son of Cornelius and Zira, as he leads a rebellion that sparks the downfall of human civilization.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Conquest of the Planet of the Apes" is a dark and intense film that explores themes of revolution, oppression, and freedom. Caesar’s journey from reluctant leader to revolutionary hero makes this film one of the most emotionally charged entries in the series. The film’s commentary on civil rights and social justice gives it a lasting impact.
Unique Description: A gripping prequel about the beginning of the ape rebellion.
IMDb Score: 6.1
5. Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973)
Description: The final conflict between apes and humans.
Overview and Features
Directed by J. Lee Thompson, "Battle for the Planet of the Apes" is the concluding chapter of the original series. The film takes place years after the events of the previous film, where Caesar now leads a peaceful society of apes and humans. However, tensions rise as a faction of militant apes threatens the fragile peace, leading to an all-out war between apes and humans.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
As the final film in the original series, "Battle for the Planet of the Apes" brings the saga to a climactic end. While the film has a smaller budget compared to its predecessors, it still delivers intense action and emotional drama. The film’s exploration of the delicate balance between peace and conflict adds depth to its apocalyptic setting.
Unique Description: The climactic battle between apes and humans for survival.
IMDb Score: 5.4
6. Planet of the Apes (2001)
Description: Tim Burton’s reimagining of the classic sci-fi tale.
Overview and Features
Directed by Tim Burton, "Planet of the Apes" (2001) is a reimagining of the original 1968 film. The story follows astronaut Leo Davidson (Mark Wahlberg), who crashes on a planet ruled by intelligent apes. As Leo attempts to survive in this hostile world, he uncovers shocking secrets about the planet’s history and its connection to humanity.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
While Tim Burton’s "Planet of the Apes" received mixed reviews, it stands out for its stunning visual effects and makeup, which brought the apes to life in a new and dynamic way. The film offers a fresh take on the classic story, with Burton’s signature dark and fantastical style. It’s an intriguing addition to the franchise, offering a different interpretation of the iconic tale.
Unique Description: A visually stunning reimagining of the classic sci-fi film.
IMDb Score: 5.7
7. Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
Description: A thrilling reboot that redefines the origins of the ape uprising.
Overview and Features
Directed by Rupert Wyatt, "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" is the first film in the modern reboot trilogy. The story follows Will Rodman (James Franco), a scientist working on a cure for Alzheimer’s, who raises a genetically enhanced chimpanzee named Caesar (Andy Serkis). As Caesar’s intelligence grows, so does his awareness of the cruelty inflicted upon his kind, leading to a rebellion that will change the world forever.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Rise of the Planet of the Apes" reboots the franchise with stunning visual effects and motion capture, particularly in Andy Serkis’s groundbreaking performance as Caesar. The film’s emotional depth and exploration of animal rights and ethics make it a standout in the series, paving the way for the powerful trilogy that follows.
Unique Description: A thrilling reboot that redefines the origins of the apes.
IMDb Score: 7.6
8. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
Description: Apes and humans face off in a post-apocalyptic world.
Overview and Features
Directed by Matt Reeves, "Dawn of the Planet of the Apes" is set ten years after the events of "Rise," where a virus has wiped out much of the human population. Caesar now leads a flourishing ape society, but tensions rise when humans, led by Dreyfus (Gary Oldman), seek to regain control. The film explores the fragile peace between apes and humans and the looming threat of war.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Dawn of the Planet of the Apes" takes the franchise to new heights with its incredible visual effects, gripping action, and deep emotional storytelling. The film’s exploration of leadership, fear, and survival makes it one of the most compelling entries in the series. Andy Serkis’s performance as Caesar is once again a highlight, solidifying the reboot’s success.
Unique Description: Apes and humans face off in a gripping post-apocalyptic world.
IMDb Score: 7.6
9. War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
Description: The epic conclusion to Caesar’s journey and the battle for survival.
Overview and Features
Directed by Matt Reeves, "War for the Planet of the Apes" is the final chapter in the reboot trilogy. Caesar leads the apes in a fight for survival against a ruthless human military leader known as the Colonel (Woody Harrelson). As the war between apes and humans reaches its peak, Caesar faces his greatest challenge yet, one that will determine the fate of his kind.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"War for the Planet of the Apes" delivers a powerful and emotional conclusion to Caesar’s story. The film is a masterclass in visual effects and motion capture, with Andy Serkis delivering a heart-wrenching performance. Its themes of leadership, sacrifice, and the consequences of war make it a thought-provoking and deeply moving film.
Unique Description: The epic and emotional conclusion to Caesar’s journey.
IMDb Score: 7.4
FAQs
1. What is the best order to watch the Planet of the Apes movies?
The best way to watch the Planet of the Apes movies is by release order, starting with the original 1968 film, followed by its sequels and then the modern reboot trilogy.
2. What makes the modern Planet of the Apes reboot so successful?
The modern reboot, starting with "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," is praised for its groundbreaking visual effects, compelling storytelling, and Andy Serkis’s powerful performance as Caesar.
3. Which Planet of the Apes movie features the iconic twist ending?
The original "Planet of the Apes" (1968) features the iconic twist where astronaut Taylor discovers the ruins of the Statue of Liberty, revealing the planet to be a future Earth.
4. How does the 2001 Planet of the Apes differ from the original?
Tim Burton’s 2001 reimagining offers a darker, visually striking interpretation of the classic story, but it differs in tone and structure from the original film.
5. Which Planet of the Apes film is considered the most emotional?
"War for the Planet of the Apes" (2017) is considered the most emotional, as it brings Caesar’s journey to a heart-wrenching conclusion, exploring themes of sacrifice and leadership.
The Planet of the Apes franchise is a timeless saga that continues to resonate with audiences thanks to its powerful storytelling, groundbreaking visual effects, and deep philosophical themes. Whether you’re a fan of the original series or the modern reboot, watching the Planet of the Apes movies in order is a thrilling journey through one of the most iconic sci-fi universes ever created. Each film offers something unique, making the entire series a must-watch for any fan of science fiction.
