Rating of
3.5/4
Planet of the Apes (1968) review
Daniel Corleone - wrote on 12/14/11
View with subtitles and focus for better appreciation. The ship of Taylor (Charlton Heston), Landon (Robert Gunner), Dodge (Jeff Burton) and Stewart (Dianne Stanley) crashes on an unknown planet 3978 A.D. Only one survives and is taken to Ape City. Dr. Zira (Kim Hunter) observes Taylor and introduces him to her fiance Cornelius (Roddy McDowall). Numerous humans are caged with leashes treated like animals. Dr. Zaius (Maurice Evans) has a secret that was never divulged until Taylor’s arrival. Taylor will likewise discover something shocking upon his journey along shoreline. Charlton Heston and Maurice Evans were fabulous in their roles.
The cinematography and makeup is one of the best this reviewer has seen, just mesmerizing. Soundtrack was apt and screenplay just captivating. Lines from Dr. Zaius – “Man has no understanding. He can be taught a few simple tricks. Nothing more.” “His emotions must rule his brain. He must be a war-like creature who gives battle to everything around him...even himself.” “I didn't realize that man could be monogamous.” Taylor – “There's your Minister of Science; honor-bound to expand the frontiers of knowledge.” Only minor questionable detail that this critic noticed were how Taylor discovered the name of Nova when in fact she couldn’t speak and some slow pacing in the story-telling. One of the best conclusions and symbolism's of crooked justice, man’s cruelties/emotions, dishonor, survival, animal cruelty, search for truth, monogamy despite some scenes being dated. Planet of the Apes is a drama mixed with sci-fi elements and a bit of action worthy for repeat viewings. Nothing beats the original.
