Apes Rule in IGN’s Kingdom Review

May 9, 2024

Review: Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

Director Wes Ball takes the helm in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, a film that may not reach the emotional depths of its predecessors in the Caesar Trilogy but still manages to impress with its atmospheric and empathetic approach. Set centuries after the events of War for the Planet of the Apes, the movie follows a chimpanzee named Noah on a quest to rescue his clan from the aspiring ape tyrant Proximus.

Adventure Mode Engaged

While Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is more of a road movie and adventure story, it still maintains the essence of the series with stakes, loss, and danger. Despite the lighter tone, there are compelling characters and thrilling action sequences that keep the audience engaged.

Noah’s Journey

Noah’s character, portrayed by Owen Teague, may not be as layered as Caesar, but he is likable and easy to root for. The dynamic between Noah, the orangutan Raaka, and the human companion Fre Allen provides a refreshing take on the post-apocalyptic world of apes and humans.

A New World

Screenwriter Josh Friedman introduces clever twists to the narrative, keeping the audience on their toes. The world-building elements, including the significance of eagles to Noah’s clan, add depth to the story and leave room for future exploration in the franchise.

Visual Marvels

The digital effects in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes are top-notch, bringing the ape characters to life with remarkable detail. The physical performances of the talented cast in performance capture suits enhance the believability and realism of the apes, making them truly captivating to watch.

Final Verdict

While Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes may not reach the emotional complexity of its predecessors, it still stands strong as a worthy continuation of the franchise. With a blend of adventure, action, and world-building, the film offers an engaging new chapter in the Planet of the Apes saga.

Overall, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is a testament to the enduring legacy of the franchise and a promising sign of more adventures to come in this ever-evolving world of apes and humans.

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