‘Planet of the Apes’, written by Pierre Boulle, was first published in 1963 and took the world by storm. It presented a unique and thought-provoking narrative that challenged readers’ perception of humanity and civilization. This literary sensation was adapted into a film in 1968, which further solidified its status in popular culture.
‘War for the Planet of the Apes’, released in 2017, is the third installment in the rebooted Planet of the Apes film series. Directed by Matt Reeves, it continued the narrative set up in the previous films and brought a satisfying conclusion to Caesar’s journey.
‘Planet of the Apes’: Book Summary and Character Analysis
The book ‘Planet of the Apes’ introduces us to an otherworldly reality where apes are the dominant species and humans are reduced to savages. The protagonist, Ulysse Mérou, a journalist from Earth, along with his two companions, lands on this strange planet named Soror. The narrative unfolds as Ulysse, initially captured and studied by the apes, gradually earns their trust and delves deeper into their society.
The main characters in this novel are Ulysse Mérou, Zira, and Zaius. Ulysse, a human from Earth, is the protagonist who challenges the apes’ perception of humans. Zira, a compassionate and progressive chimpanzee, befriends Ulysse and aids him in his journey. Zaius, an orangutan and the Minister of Science, opposes Ulysse due to his conservative beliefs and fear of human potential.
The book presents an insightful commentary on society, intelligence, and the concept of civilization. It poses intriguing questions about the role of science, the nature of humanity, and the cycle of civilization. The characters, while non-human, are highly relatable and compelling, each embodying different perspectives and ideologies.
‘War for the Planet of the Apes’: Movie Summary and Character Analysis
In ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’, the character of Caesar, the intelligent ape leader, is further developed. He leads his tribe of apes against a military faction known as Alpha-Omega, led by a ruthless colonel. Caesar, initially desiring peace, is forced into war after suffering personal loss at the hands of the humans.
The main characters of the film are Caesar, the Colonel, and Bad Ape. Caesar, an evolved ape, struggles with his darker instincts while leading his people towards freedom. The Colonel, portrayed by Woody Harrelson, is the antagonist who is determined to ensure human survival at any cost. Bad Ape, a newcomer to Caesar’s tribe, provides comic relief while also reflecting the fear and trauma inflicted by the war.
The film explores themes of empathy, survival, and the cost of war. It presents an emotional journey of its characters, combined with breathtaking visual effects and a gripping storyline. The characters are complex and multi-dimensional, each contributing to the overall narrative and emotional resonance of the film.
When and Where: Timeline and Film Locations of both works
The timeline of ‘Planet of the Apes’ is set in the far future, while ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’ is set in a post-apocalyptic near future. Both these works present a world vastly different from our current reality, each offering a unique perspective on a world dominated by apes.
‘Planet of the Apes’ primarily takes place on the exotic planet Soror, which is revealed to be Earth in a shocking twist. The book explores different locations on this planet, including the Ape City, where a majority of the story unfolds.
‘War for the Planet of the Apes’, on the other hand, was filmed in various locations in British Columbia, Canada. The film features stunning landscapes that serve as the backdrop for the epic showdown between the apes and humans.
Who’s Who: Key Characters and Their Roles
In both ‘Planet of the Apes’ and ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’, the key characters play vital roles in driving the story forward. In the book, Ulysse Mérou, an astronaut from Earth, serves as the protagonist and the lens through which readers experience the ape-dominated world. Zira, a compassionate chimpanzee scientist, becomes his ally, while Dr. Zaius, an orangutan and the Minister of Science, serves as the primary antagonist.
In the movie, Caesar, the leader of the ape tribe, is the main protagonist. His character embodies strength, wisdom, and empathy. The Colonel, the human antagonist, contrasts Caesar with his ruthless and unforgiving nature. Bad Ape, a former zoo chimpanzee, provides a different perspective on the war, serving both as comic relief and a symbol of its tragic consequences.
Memorable Quotes from ‘Planet of the Apes’ and ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’
Both ‘Planet of the Apes’ and ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’ are filled with memorable quotes that encapsulate the essence of the stories and their characters. In the book, Ulysse says, “I am a man, and man is master”, reflecting the human arrogance that is a recurring theme in the story. Zira’s line, “To understand a civilization, one must look at its science”, reflects her progressive mindset and the book’s commentary on the role of science.
In the film, Caesar’s line, “Apes together strong”, embodies the unity and strength of the ape tribe. The Colonel’s chilling quote, “This is our last stand. And if we lose, it will be a planet of apes”, highlights the desperation and fear of the human faction.
Soundtrack Breakdown: Michael Giacchino’s Contributions
Michael Giacchino’s score for ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’ is instrumental in enhancing the emotional depth and intensity of the film. His music adds a layer of complexity to the characters and the narrative, enhancing the viewers’ connection with the story.
Giacchino’s score is a blend of haunting melodies and powerful orchestral pieces that reflect the film’s themes of war, survival, and empathy. Tracks like “Apes’ Past is Prologue” and “Exodus Wounds” stand out, perfectly capturing the emotional journey of Caesar and his tribe.
His contribution extends beyond the music to influence the overall tone and mood of the film. His score complements the visual storytelling, making ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’ a truly immersive cinematic experience.
Michael Giacchino: Biography and Other Works
Michael Giacchino is a renowned American composer who has contributed to numerous films, television series, and video games. Born on October 10, 1967, in Riverside Township, New Jersey, he developed an interest in music from an early age. He studied at the School of Visual Arts in New York City, where he majored in film production and subsequently ventured into the world of music composition.
Giacchino’s career took off with his work on video games like ‘Medal of Honor’ and ‘Call of Duty’. He made his breakthrough in film with his scores for Pixar’s ‘The Incredibles’ and ‘Ratatouille’, both of which earned him widespread acclaim. He won an Academy Award for his score for ‘Up’ and has since composed music for blockbuster films like ‘Star Trek’, ‘Jurassic World’, and ‘Doctor Strange’.
Fun Facts and Curiosities about ‘Planet of the Apes’ and ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’
There are several fun facts and curiosities associated with ‘Planet of the Apes’ and ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’. For instance, did you know that the book was initially published under the title ‘Monkey Planet’ in the UK? Or that the statue of Liberty scene in the 1968 film adaptation is now considered one of the most iconic endings in cinema?
‘War for the Planet of the Apes’ also has its share of trivia. The film was almost entirely shot in the rain to create a bleak and dreary atmosphere. Also, the character of Bad Ape was inspired by a real-life chimpanzee who lived in a Sierra Nevada roadside zoo.
Cosplay Tips: How to Dress Like Caesar and The Colonel
If you’re a fan of ‘Planet of the Apes’ and ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’, you might be interested in cosplaying as your favorite characters. To dress like Caesar, focus on creating a realistic ape-like appearance. Invest in a high-quality mask or makeup to replicate his distinctive facial features. For the body, opt for a furry suit or textured clothing. Don’t forget to practice your ape-like movements to truly embody the character.
For The Colonel cosplay, a military uniform is a must. Look for a green or camouflage jacket and pants, paired with combat boots. A shaved head or a military-style haircut would add authenticity to your look. Carry a toy weapon for added effect, but always remember to follow local laws and convention rules regarding props.
Pierre Boulle: Biography and Top 5 Works
Pierre Boulle was a French novelist best known for his works ‘Planet of the Apes’ and ‘The Bridge on the River Kwai’. Born on February 20, 1912, in Avignon, France, Boulle studied engineering before serving in the French army during World War II. His experiences during the war greatly influenced his writing.
Aside from ‘Planet of the Apes’, Boulle’s top works include ‘The Bridge on the River Kwai’, a novel based on his war experiences that was later adapted into an Oscar-winning film. ‘The Virtues of Hell’, ‘The Executioner’, and ‘The Test’ are other notable novels that showcase Boulle’s imaginative storytelling and keen insights into human nature.
Matt Reeves: Biography and Top 5 Other Media
Matt Reeves is an American filmmaker known for his work on films like ‘Cloverfield’, ‘Let Me In’, and the ‘Planet of the Apes’ reboot series. Born on April 27, 1966, in Rockville Center, New York, Reeves began making movies at an early age. He studied cinema at the University of Southern California, where he co-founded a production company.
Reeves gained recognition with his directorial debut, ‘The Pallbearer’, followed by the found-footage horror film ‘Cloverfield’. His remake of the Swedish film ‘Let the Right One In’, titled ‘Let Me In’, received critical acclaim. However, it was his work on ‘Dawn of the Planet of the Apes’ and ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’ that established him as a director capable of blending spectacular visuals with deep emotional narratives.
If You Loved ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’: 10 Similar Movies
If ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’ left you craving for more, here are ten similar movies that you might enjoy. ‘Dawn of the Planet of the Apes’, ‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes’, ‘The Day the Earth Stood Still’, ‘Children of Men’, ‘I Am Legend’, ‘Avatar’, ‘District 9’, ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’, ‘The Road’, and ‘A Quiet Place’ all offer a blend of science fiction, action, and profound themes that resonate with ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’.
If You Loved ‘Planet of the Apes’: 10 Similar Novels
As an ardent fan of science fiction, if you loved ‘Planet of the Apes’, there are numerous other novels that you might enjoy. Let’s delve into a selection of ten similar novels that promise to captivate your imagination, much like Pierre Boulle’s masterpiece did.
- ‘1984’ by George Orwell: This dystopian classic depicts a grim future where Big Brother always watches and freedom is a distant dream.
- ‘Brave New World’ by Aldous Huxley: It envisages a future where happiness is artificially produced, and individuality is sacrificed for societal stability.
- ‘Fahrenheit 451’ by Ray Bradbury: A tale set in a world where books are banned, and thinking is discouraged.
- ‘Neuromancer’ by William Gibson: This cyberpunk gem explores artificial intelligence and virtual reality.
- ‘Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?’ by Philip K. Dick: This novel, on which the ‘Blade Runner’ movies are based, investigates the boundaries of human and machine.
- ‘Snow Crash’ by Neal Stephenson: A thrilling blend of ancient mythologies, technology, and linguistics.
- ‘The Time Machine’ by H.G. Wells: An adventure across time that questions the trajectory of human evolution.
- ‘A Canticle for Leibowitz’ by Walter M. Miller Jr.: This post-apocalyptic novel explores the cyclical nature of history.
- ‘The Left Hand of Darkness’ by Ursula K. Le Guin: A fascinating exploration of gender and society on a distant planet.
- ‘Dune’ by Frank Herbert: An epic tale of political intrigue, ecology, and human potential on the desert planet of Arrakis.
Book Club Questions for ‘Planet of the Apes’
‘Planet of the Apes’ is a thought-provoking read that sparks discussions on various themes like human nature, civilization, and morality. Here are a few questions that could be the basis for a fulfilling book club discussion:
- How does Boulle depict human nature in ‘Planet of the Apes’? How does this portrayal affect your interpretation of the novel?
- How does the author use irony to critique human civilization and its perceived superiority?
- What role does science play in the novel, and how does it contribute to the narrative’s climax?
- How does Boulle use the character of Ulysse Mérou to critique human behavior and morality?
- How does the novel’s ending reshape your understanding of the story and its themes?
Parent Guide: Is ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’ Suitable for Your Child?
‘War for the Planet of the Apes’ is a visually stunning film with a powerful narrative. However, as parents, it’s essential to consider if it’s suitable for your child. The movie has a PG-13 rating, which means some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
The film contains intense action sequences, battle scenes, and emotional moments that could potentially disturb younger viewers. It also explores mature themes like war, survival, and morality. The violence, although not overly graphic, is consistent throughout the film.
Besides, the film requires a certain level of maturity to understand the complex emotions and motivations of the characters. Therefore, it’s advisable for parents to watch it first before deciding if it’s suitable for their children.
Characters Created by Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver
Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver, the writing duo behind the rebooted ‘Planet of the Apes’ series, created some intriguing characters. They breathed life into Caesar, a genetically altered ape who leads his kind against human oppression. Caesar is intelligent, compassionate, and a born leader.
The Colonel, played by Woody Harrelson, is another complex character. He’s a military leader driven by a ruthless determination to preserve humanity, even if it means wiping out the apes. His character adds a layer of moral ambiguity to the film, making you question the cost of survival.
Buying Guide and Gift Ideas: ‘Planet of the Apes’ and ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’ Merchandise
For fans of the ‘Planet of the Apes’ series, owning a piece of merchandise is a great way to display their love for the franchise. From action figures to graphic novels, there are numerous options available online.
Action figures of Caesar and other characters, complete with detailed features and accessories, are excellent gift options for children and collectors alike. Graphic novels based on the series, like ‘Planet of the Apes: Visionaries’, offer a new perspective on the story. Posters, t-shirts, and mugs featuring iconic quotes and images from the series also make for great gifts.
Before purchasing, make sure to check the product details and customer reviews to ensure the quality of the merchandise. Also, consider the recipient’s preferences and the suitability of the gift for their age.
Conclusion
‘Planet of the Apes’ and ‘War for the Planet of the Apes’ are more than just a book and a film; they’re cultural phenomena that have left an indelible impact on science fiction. Whether it’s through exploring similar novels, engaging in thought-provoking discussions, understanding the suitability of the film for children, diving into the complexity of the characters, or buying merchandise, there are numerous ways to deepen your connection with this iconic series. Immerse yourself in the world of ‘Planet of the Apes’ and continue the adventure beyond the book and the screen.
