Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024) Movie Review
Several generations following Caesar’s reign, apes – now the dominant species – live harmoniously while humans have been reduced to living in the shadows. As a new tyrannical ape leader builds his empire, one young ape undertakes a harrowing journey that will cause him to question all he’s known about the past and to make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike.
“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is the latest addition to the beloved franchise, directed by Wes Ball. Set several generations after the events of “War for the Planet of the Apes,” the story follows a young chimpanzee named Noa, portrayed by Owen Teague. The plot kicks off with Noa embarking on a perilous quest to retrieve an eagle egg, a rite of passage in his clan. However, when a human named Mae (Freya Allan) unintentionally destroys the egg, Noa’s village becomes a target of the malevolent Proximus Caesar.
The film’s narrative delves into themes of survival, legacy, and the potential for inter-species peace. As Noa seeks to rescue his clan from Proximus’ tyrannical rule, he encounters various allies, including an orangutan named Raka (Peter Macon) who teaches him about the real Caesar’s ideals of peaceful coexistence.
The film has received mixed reviews. While some praise its visual effects, world-building, and action sequences, others criticize it for its pacing and lack of emotional depth compared to previous installments. The movie is described as visually stunning, with impressive cinematography and immersive action scenes, but it lacks the emotional resonance and narrative drive of its predecessors .
Strengths:
Visual Effects and Cinematography: The movie excels in its visual presentation, offering breathtaking action sequences and detailed world-building.
Thematic Exploration: The film continues to explore complex themes such as coexistence, legacy, and the consequences of power.
Weaknesses:
Pacing Issues: The film’s pacing is inconsistent, with some parts dragging and others feeling rushed.
Character Development: The characters, especially Noa and Nova, are not as compelling as those in previous films, leading to a less engaging narrative.
Verdict:
“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is a visually captivating film that expands the franchise’s mythology. However, it falls short in delivering the emotional and narrative depth that fans of the series might expect. It remains an enjoyable entry in the series but does not quite reach the heights of its predecessors . watch Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes On Netnaija.