Director: Wes Ball

Writers: Josh Friedman, Rick Jaffa, Amanda Silver

Stars: Owen Teague, Freya Allan, Kevin Durand, Dichen Lachman, William H. Macy

Summary:

"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" continues the saga with a thoughtful narrative that examines the complexities of power and history. Following the death of Caesar, the legendary chimpanzee leader, the story leaps forward by generations to a time when his peaceful teachings have become mythic. The apes have fractured into tribes, with Caesar's legacy both venerated and twisted by those in power. The plot centers on Noa (Owen Teague), a young chimpanzee searching for his clan after an attack by Proximus Caesar’s (Kevin Durand) soldiers, and his journey towards understanding Caesar's true legacy.

What We Liked:

Owen Teague’s Performance: Owen Teague delivers a compelling portrayal of Noa, capturing the character's journey from innocence to a realization of his greater purpose.

Direction and Cinematography: Wes Ball’s direction and the film’s cinematography beautifully capture the raw emotions and intense moments, maintaining the suspense and drama.

Engaging Plot: The storyline is well-crafted, exploring themes of idealism and its corruption by power, which keeps the audience invested.

Production Quality: High production values are evident throughout the film, from detailed sets and costumes to the overall visual appeal.

What We Disliked:

Predictable Elements: Certain plot twists are somewhat predictable, reducing the element of surprise.

Character Depth: Some supporting characters could have benefited from more background development to better understand their motivations.

Pacing Issues: A few scenes in the middle of the film feel slightly dragged, impacting the otherwise well-maintained pace.

Verdict:

"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" is a significant addition to the series, delivering a powerful narrative that reflects on the dangers of romanticizing the past and the corruption of idealism. While it has some predictable elements and minor pacing issues, the strong performances, especially from Owen Teague, and the high production quality make it a compelling watch. Fans of the series and those who appreciate thoughtful science fiction will find this film rewarding.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.