The
rebooted ape series ends on a supreme note in this sequel, War for the Planet of the Apes, as director Matt Reeves has perfected
a moving, visually stunning saga that pits the humans against the apes with
tragic, even Shakespearean overtones. It is one of the best conclusions to any
trilogy with its ambitious story and superior acting by Andy Serkis.
As
the simian flu decimates humans and creates intelligent apes, talking ape
leader, Caesar (Serkis), who desires peace and searches for a new sanctuary for
his apes, must avenge a personal tragedy at the hands of a renegade human Colonel
(Woody Harrelson) who is planning to conquer and eliminate them. Aided in his
quest by a motley group of apes and even a human girl, Caesar must risk
everything when his ape brethren are faced with genocide.
The
film again is presented primarily from the apes’ perspective (complete with
numerous subtitles for the different simian languages). In addition to themes of loyalty, betrayal,
self-sacrifice, and compassion, the film
develops deep emotions that payoff in a big way towards the climax. The final scene will resonate for many who
have followed Caesar’s journey from the beginning.
As for the motion capture
effects, they are so good, that there is not a false note as Serkis renders his
Caesar with authentic facial expressions and vocal intonations. It is a great
performance. Special
mention goes to a strong score by Michael Giacchino.
Obviously
influenced by classic biblical and war films, there are also references to the
original Planet of the Apes films for
purists. The film, ultimately about redemption, has a lot of heart, and for an
epic tale about intelligent apes and nasty humans, that speaks volumes.
***1/2
of **** stars (add ½* for ape fans)
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