Introduction to the Planet of the Apes Franchise

As a seasoned observer of the Planet of the Apes franchise, I must admit that after experiencing eight films in the franchise, my interest wanes. I find it difficult to see a new set of spin-offs, especially one that might dilute the original essence of the franchise. However, I must extend my appreciation to Wes Ball for the recent trilogy, Rise, Dawn, and War, which has left its mark on the modern interpretation of the apocalyptic narrative.

The Original Planet of the Apes (1968)

The Enduring Legacy of the Original Film
To truly appreciate the material that followed, we must revisit the 1968 film directed by Franklin J. Schaffner. This movie is more than just fiction; it is a thought-provoking commentary on societal issues and ethics. The film concludes with a haunting and pivotal scene that sets it apart from the subsequent films. American astronaut Taylor, after the crash on the planet, exclaims:

“I can’t think. It’s more terrible than anything I could have imagined. Believing in the future is a crime now. Thus, if I were God, I would damn the men who blew it up. If I weren’t, I am—but this doesn’t matter, ZAIUS. ZAIUS, I understand now. When those revealed images flickered into reality, I saw the frightened faces of my own species. I saw the faces of the ceremonial fire. See now, ZAIUS, it is the man who is to blame.”

With these words, the original film subtly reveals the tragic existence of modern humanity, as evidence of our past actions has been hidden from other apes.

The Reboot Trilogy

Focus on the Reboot Trilogy
The Rise, Dawn, and War trilogy, on the other hand, takes a different route. The recent reboot series by Wes Ball introduces new elements that reshape the apocalyptic narrative. The series focuses on an unintended consequence of a lab-based experiment. This storyline differs significantly from the original, where humans destroy their world through nuclear war. Here are some key contrasts:

Human Downfall in the Reboot Trilogies

In the reboot, humans lose the ability to speak due to the side-effects of a drug rather than the deliberate persecution of apes. This deviation changes the moral and ethic implications considerably. In particular, the process where humans cannot speak is more of a side effect rather than a direct act of persecution.

Evolution of Apes in the Original

In the original 1968 film, the evolution of apes as the dominant species was driven by the persecution of humans. The franchise narrates a saga of how apes gained speech and, consequently, their dominant position. This narrative is deeply rooted in the idea of social justice and the moral imperative of evolutionary supremacy.

Contrasting Human Perceptions

Humans in the reboot series are depicted as completely mute, similar to their counterparts in the original. However, the reasons behind their silence are different. In the original, the humans are taught through conditioning to remain silent to protect themselves from the apes. In the reboot, humans lose their voices due to the side-effects of a drug, not by direct persecution. This contrast generalizes the story’s treatment of the downfall of humanity.

The Moral and Ethical Dilemma of the Original Versus the Reboot

The 1968 Film: A Dark Reflection of Human Nature
The 1968 film paints a dark and reflective picture of human nature. The humans' nuclear war and subsequent persecution of the apes reflect the inherent brutality of human behavior. The story’s profound conclusion, where humans are forced to accept their fate, offers a poignant commentary on self-inflicted downfall and the cycle of violence perpetuated by mankind.

The Reboot Trilogy: A More Nuanced and Scientific Exploration
The reboot trilogy, conversely, explores science and its unintended consequences. While the narrative presents a more scientific and plausible explanation for the downfall of humans, it falls short in its representation of sociological and ethical conflicts. The reboot presents a more straightforward and less complex storyline.

Personal Preference and Future of the Franchise

My Personal Take on the Original and the Reboot
Personally, I am more inclined towards the original 1968 film and its sequels. The original series delves into a complex and multifaceted exploration of human nature and societal structures. It resonates more profoundly with the inherent human inclination towards violence and subjugation. My appreciation for the reboot trilogy is more tempered by its unique contribution to the franchise, but I do not view it as a valid prequel to the original.

The Future of the Planet of the Apes Franchise
For the future of the franchise, I believe that any new entries should focus on maintaining the integrity of both the original and the reboot narratives. It is essential to honor the legacy of the 1968 film while incorporating the innovative storytelling of the reboot series. This balance would ensure that the franchise continues to captivate audiences and provoke thought-provoking discussions about humanity and society.

Conclusion: Reflections on the Planet of the Apes Franchise

In conclusion, the Planet of the Apes franchise is a rich tapestry of storytelling, deeply embedded with moral and ethical lessons. While the reboot trilogy offers a unique narrative approach, the original film remains a cornerstone of the franchise. It is crucial to preserve the essence of the original while embracing the innovations of the reboot. The future of the franchise lies in finding a harmonious balance between these two narratives.