Reviews

Ben N, Roving reporter

Rise of the Planet of the Apes

Starring: James Franco, Andy Serkis, Freida Pinto, John Lithgow
Directed by Rupert Wyatt
Rating: M

If you haven't seen any of the previous instalments of the Planet of the Apes franchise, don't be alarmed. The movie starts with a fresh take the ideas of the old franchise and puts it into a modern setting.

From the title, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, it is made obvious to the audience that the apes will rise against the humans. It is the process of how it happens which makes the movie so interesting.

It all starts with a scientist Will Rodman (Franco) trying to find a cure for Alzheimer's. After testing it on an ape, which later on dies, Will rescues a chimpanzee called Caesar (Serkis) from a decommissioned research facility.

Will raises Caesar for several years, until one day Caesar attacks a neighbour, which then lands him in an ape prison. Caesar and his ape companions are mistreated in the prison, which builds deep resentment within them. Caesar then uses his greater intelligence to lead the other apes to their freedom.

Directed by Rupert Wyatt, Rise of the Planet of the Apes can be described as suspenseful, emotional and downright exciting.

The movie is a very well told story, with never a dull moment. There are many OMG! moments that will leave your jaw wide open.

Visually the movie is fantastic, with advanced CGI that the filmmakers use to make the apes appear very realistic on the big screen.

Furthermore Franco and Serkis, whose body movements were motion-captured to create the role of Caesar, are very convincing, which makes it easier for the audience to connect with the characters emotionally.

Unlike many movies these days, I thought the film was a good length. It felt as though the movie passed by quickly, maybe a little too quickly for my liking. There was never a moment when I felt the movie became tedious or unpleasant, which is rare for any movie, as these moments are necessary for the build up to a climax.

Make sure to watch out for some foreshadowing which occurs during the movie, giving the impression to the audience that maybe a second sequel will be made.

Overall the movie was a great cinematic experience, leaving you with the feeling of refreshing satisfaction, like that of a good night's sleep.

4 out of 5

For more movie reviews, check out our reviews archive.

BACK TO MORE REVIEWS