The Planet of the Apes movie series is one of the most iconic and long-running franchises in cinematic history. Spanning over five decades, this science fiction saga explores themes of evolution, survival, and humanity’s hubris.
With its complex storyline and multiple reboots, it can be challenging to watch the Planet of the Apes movie in order. This guide will help you navigate the series chronologically and provide insights into its captivating storylines.
The Planet of the Apes Movies: Chronological vs Release Order
Before diving into the details, it’s important to note that the Planet of the Apes movies can be watched in two ways:
- Release Order: This is the order in which the movies were released in theatres, starting with the 1968 classic.
- Chronological Order: This order follows the timeline of the events in the storyline, starting with the prequel series that began in 2011.
Planet of the Apes Movie in Chronological Order
To experience the events of the saga as they unfold in the story, follow this order:
1. Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
This film serves as the starting point of the series chronologically. It introduces Caesar, a genetically enhanced chimpanzee, whose intelligence sparks a revolution. The movie explores humanity’s experimentation with a virus that ultimately leads to its downfall.
- Director: Rupert Wyatt
- Starring: James Franco, Andy Serkis
- Plot: Will Rodman, a scientist, experiments with a drug to cure Alzheimer’s. The drug unintentionally enhances Caesar’s intelligence, setting the stage for the apes’ uprising.
2. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
Set 10 years after the events of “Rise,” this movie portrays a world devastated by the ALZ-113 virus, also known as the Simian Flu. Caesar leads a growing community of apes, but tensions arise when they encounter a group of human survivors.
- Director: Matt Reeves
- Starring: Andy Serkis, Jason Clarke
- Plot: A fragile peace between humans and apes collapses due to mistrust and betrayal, pushing the apes closer to outright rebellion.
3. War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
This chapter concludes Caesar’s journey, focusing on the apes’ struggle for survival against a ruthless military force. Themes of sacrifice and leadership shine as Caesar grapples with the consequences of war.
- Director: Matt Reeves
- Starring: Andy Serkis, Woody Harrelson
- Plot: Caesar faces betrayal and loss as he leads the apes in a battle for freedom, paving the way for a new era.
4. Planet of the Apes (1968)
The classic that started it all! This film takes place far in the future, where humans are subjugated by intelligent apes. It features one of cinema’s most famous twists.
- Director: Franklin J. Schaffner
- Starring: Charlton Heston, Roddy McDowall
- Plot: Astronaut George Taylor crash-lands on a mysterious planet dominated by apes. He discovers a shocking truth about humanity’s past.
5. Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970)
This direct sequel picks up where the 1968 film left off, introducing a hidden society of mutated humans and escalating the conflict between humans and apes.
- Director: Ted Post
- Starring: James Franciscus, Charlton Heston
- Plot: Another astronaut searches for Taylor and uncovers a subterranean human civilisation worshipping a doomsday weapon.
6. Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971)
This film shifts gears, taking a more lighthearted approach. It follows three apes who travel back in time to 20th-century Earth, bringing the franchise full circle.
- Director: Don Taylor
- Starring: Roddy McDowall, Kim Hunter
- Plot: Zira, Cornelius, and Dr Milo escape the destroyed future and land in the 1970s, where they face both acceptance and fear.
7. Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972)
This prequel to the original series chronicles the rise of Caesar (the son of Zira and Cornelius) and the start of the ape rebellion.
- Director: J. Lee Thompson
- Starring: Roddy McDowall
- Plot: In a world where apes are enslaved, Caesar leads a revolution against human oppressors.
8. Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973)
The final film of the original series explores the fragile coexistence between humans and apes in a post-apocalyptic world.
- Director: J. Lee Thompson
- Starring: Roddy McDowall
- Plot: Caesar strives to maintain peace between humans and apes but faces challenges from both sides.
Planet of the Apes Movies in Release Order
If you prefer to watch the films in the order they were released, follow this list:
- Planet of the Apes (1968)
- Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970)
- Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971)
- Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972)
- Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973)
- Planet of the Apes (2001) [Remake]
- Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
- Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
- War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best order to watch the Planet of the Apes movies?
Watching the Planet of the Apes movie in order chronologically (starting with “Rise”) provides a cohesive storyline, while the release order offers the franchise’s evolution over time.
2. Do I need to watch the original series before the reboot?
No, the reboot trilogy stands on its own, but watching the originals enhances your appreciation of the series’ legacy.
3. Is the 2001 remake connected to the series?
Tim Burton’s 2001 remake is a standalone film and not part of the original or reboot timelines.
Conclusion
The Planet of the Apes movie in order offers a fascinating journey through a rich, imaginative world. Whether you choose the chronological or release order, each film contributes to the saga’s legacy of exploring complex themes and delivering thrilling entertainment.
With stunning performances, groundbreaking visuals, and thought-provoking stories, the Planet of the Apes series remains a must-watch for any sci-fi fan.
So grab some popcorn and embark on this unforgettable cinematic adventure!