The Planet of the Apes franchise has captivated audiences for decades with its thrilling storyline and groundbreaking special effects. One of the most popular installments in this series is “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,” which takes viewers on a journey through a post-apocalyptic world where apes have risen to power. In order to fully understand and appreciate this film, it is important to watch the movies that came before it in chronological order.
The first film in the series, “Planet of the Apes,” was released in 1968 and quickly became a cult classic. Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner, this movie introduced audiences to a world where apes are the dominant species and humans are treated as inferior beings. The film follows astronaut George Taylor, played by Charlton Heston, as he crash-lands on a mysterious planet ruled by intelligent apes. With its shocking twist ending, “Planet of the Apes” left viewers hungry for more.
Following the success of the original film, four sequels were released throughout the 1970s. These movies further explored the dystopian world inhabited by apes and humans. The second installment, “Beneath the Planet of the Apes,” delves deeper into the conflict between humans and apes as Taylor’s fellow astronaut, Brent, discovers an underground society of telepathic mutants. The third film, “Escape from the Planet of the Apes,” takes a different approach by sending three intelligent apes back in time to present-day Earth. This movie explores themes of prejudice and acceptance as humans grapple with their newfound ape companions.
The fourth film, “Conquest of the Planet of the Apes,” serves as a prequel to the original movie and depicts Caesar’s rise to power as he leads a revolution against human oppressors. This installment is particularly significant as it sets up the events that unfold in “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes.” Finally, the fifth film in the original series, “Battle for the Planet of the Apes,” showcases the ultimate showdown between apes and humans as they fight for control over Earth.
After a long hiatus, the franchise was rebooted in 2011 with “Rise of the Planet of the Apes.” This film serves as a prequel to the original series and explores how a scientific experiment gone wrong leads to the rise of intelligent apes. The movie introduces audiences to Caesar, a genetically enhanced chimpanzee who becomes the leader of his kind. This reboot was met with critical acclaim and set the stage for its highly anticipated sequel, “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes.”
Released in 2014, “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” picks up ten years after the events of “Rise.” The film follows Caesar and his growing community of apes as they face off against a group of human survivors in a battle for dominance. The movie expertly explores themes of trust, loyalty, and survival while showcasing stunning visual effects that bring these intelligent apes to life.
In conclusion, watching the “Planet of the Apes” movies in order is essential to fully appreciate and understand “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes.” From its iconic original film to its thrilling reboot, this franchise has captivated audiences with its thought-provoking storyline and groundbreaking special effects. So grab some popcorn and prepare for an epic journey through a world where apes rule supreme.
