Are you a fan of science fiction movies and looking for something to add to your bucket list in 2023? Look no further than the Planet of the Apes franchise! This series of films, which began in 1968 with the original movie, has captivated audiences for decades with its thrilling storyline, innovative special effects, and thought-provoking themes. With a total of nine films to choose from, including prequels, sequels, and reboots, there’s no shortage of exciting content to explore. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the franchise, the Planet of the Apes movies are sure to provide hours of entertainment and leave you pondering the nature of humanity and our relationship with the natural world. Check out the 5 latest Planet of the Apes movies to watch in 2023.
War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
IMDb rating: 7.4/10 | Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama | Lead Cast: Andy Serkis, Woody Harrelson, Steve Zahn | Director: Matt Reeves
In War for the Planet of the Apes (2017), tensions between humans and apes have reached a boiling point. Caesar is an intelligent and emotionally complex leader of the apes. He is determined to protect his tribe from the ruthless Colonel. He sees the apes as a threat to humanity’s survival.
After a brutal attack on their home, Caesar sets out on a mission of revenge. He is accompanied by his closest allies, Maurice, Rocket, and Luca. Along the way, they encounter a young mute human girl, whom they take under their protection.
As Caesar and his team journey deeper into enemy territory, they face numerous challenges. This includes harsh weather conditions, treacherous terrain, and deadly attacks from human soldiers. Along the way, Caesar grapples with his own inner demons. He is haunted by memories of his violent past. He struggles to maintain his humanity in the face of overwhelming conflict.
As tensions between humans and apes come to a head, both sides must ultimately choose whether to resort to violence or seek a peaceful resolution. War for the Planet of the Apes is a gripping and emotional conclusion to one of the most acclaimed film franchises of recent years. Watch one of the latest Planet of the Apes movies now!
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
IMDb rating: 7.6/10 | Genre: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi | Lead Cast: Andy Serkis, Jason Clarke, Gary Oldman | Director: Matt Reeves
In Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, a decade has passed since the outbreak of the Simian Flu, which wiped out most of humanity. In San Francisco, a small group of human survivors attempt to restore power to their city. This is done by accessing a nearby hydroelectric dam. However, the dam is located in the territory of Caesar (Andy Serkis) and his growing nation of genetically evolved apes who have built a thriving community in the Muir Woods.
Initially, Caesar welcomes the humans and agrees to help them with their mission. He hopes for peaceful coexistence between the two species. However, tensions rise when a human named Carver shoots one of the apes in fear. This causes Caesar’s trust in the humans to waver. Meanwhile, within the human group, there are those who want to wipe out the apes and reclaim their dominance over the planet.
As both sides prepare for war, Caesar is challenged by his loyal lieutenant Koba. He harbors a deep-seated hatred for humans due to his past in captivity. With Koba’s influence spreading, Caesar must choose between his desire for peace and his loyalty to his own kind.
As the conflict between the humans and apes escalates, the fate of both species rests on the outcome of a final battle for dominance. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is a thrilling and thought-provoking film that explores themes of power and survival.
Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
IMDb rating: 7.6/10 | Genre: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi | Lead Cast: James Franco, Andy Serkis, Freida Pinto | Director: Rupert Wyatt
In Rise of the Planet of the Apes, a genetic engineering experiment goes awry. This results in the creation of a highly intelligent chimpanzee named Caesar. Raised by a scientist, Caesar is initially content to live in captivity and interact with humans. However, as he grows older, Caesar begins to develop human-like emotions and becomes increasingly aware of the mistreatment of his fellow apes.
After a violent confrontation with a human handler, Caesar is sent to a primate shelter where he is subjected to cruel treatment. There, he begins to organize the other apes and plan their escape to freedom. Caesar leads his fellow apes on a quest to reclaim their rightful place as the dominant species on Earth.
Meanwhile, a virus begins to spread throughout the human population, decimating entire cities and leading to widespread panic. As the two species move closer to a final confrontation, Caesar must navigate the complexities of his own identity. He has to decide whether to remain loyal to his human benefactors or lead his fellow apes in a rebellion against their oppressors.
Rise of the Planet of the Apes is a thrilling and thought-provoking exploration of the ethics of scientific experimentation and the nature of humanity itself. With stunning visual effects and a compelling performance by Andy Serkis as Caesar, this film is a must-watch for fans of the Planet of the Apes franchise and anyone interested in the intersection of science and morality.
Planet of the Apes (2001)
IMDb rating: 5.7/10 | Genre: Sci-Fi, Action, Adventure | Lead Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Tim Roth, Helena Bonham Carter | Director: Tim Burton
In Planet of the Apes (2001), Captain Leo Davidson, a United States Air Force astronaut, is on a routine reconnaissance mission in space. There, he encounters a strange electromagnetic storm. After getting sucked into the storm, he crash-lands on a mysterious planet. There, intelligent apes are the dominant species and humans are primitive and enslaved.
Leo is captured by the ape army, led by General Thade, and taken to a human auction where he meets Ari, a prominent figure in ape society. Leo also befriends a chimp named Limbo who helps him escape captivity.
As Leo and his newfound allies journey through the dangerous jungle, they discover a forbidden human civilization and a legendary temple where a mysterious power source is located. They learn that this power source has the ability to transport them back to Earth.
However, General Thade and his army are hot on their trail. They are determined to stop them from using the power source and gaining the upper hand in their ongoing war against the humans. Leo and his allies must use all their strength, intelligence, and courage to survive. And also to find a way back to their own world.
In the end, Leo discovers a shocking truth about the planet and its inhabitants. This will forever change his understanding of his place in the universe.
Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973)
IMDb rating: 5.5/10 | Genre: Sci-Fi, Action | Lead Cast: Roddy McDowall, Claude Akins, Natalie Trundy | Director: J. Lee Thompson
In Battle for the Planet of the Apes, Caesar, the leader of the ape civilization, faces a new challenge when General Aldo. A group of humans led by Governor Kolp plans to attack the ape village.
Caesar must use all his skills and resources to defend his way of life and preserve the balance between the two species. The conflict intensifies as Caesar and his loyal followers discover the ruins of a nearby city. They hold the secrets of humanity’s past.
The battle for supremacy between humans and apes reaches a boiling point. Caesar must decide whether to learn from the mistakes of the past or repeat them. Meanwhile, the fate of the ape civilization hangs in the balance. This is when Aldo seeks to overthrow Caesar and establish a new order where apes rule over humans.
With the help of his loyal followers, including the human mutant, MacDonald, and the compassionate chimpanzee, Lisa, Caesar leads the apes into a final confrontation against the humans and General Aldo. The fate of the planet hangs in the balance as the two species fight for survival, and the outcome of the battle will determine the future of the planet of the apes. Watch one of the oldest Planet of the Apes movies and revisit the past!
It’s A Wrap
As you consider your bucket list for 2023, don’t forget to include the Planet of the Apes movies. From the classic original film to the latest reboot, these movies offer action-packed adventure, thought-provoking social commentary, and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the franchise, the Planet of the Apes movies are sure to entertain and inspire. So add them to your must-watch list for 2023 and experience the thrill of this iconic sci-fi series. When you are done watching these movies, you can add more spic to your movie genre with the best documentaries!
