At the Movies: Rise of the Planet of the Apes

Like many genre geeks of my generation, the original Planet of the Apes (and its four sequels) remains among the most fun sci-fi franchises of all time, so I was admittedly looking forward to “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” with equal parts trepidation and hope. I guess I needn't have worried, since “Rise” (fueled by an impressive motion-capture performance from Andy Serkis) just opened as the No. 1 movie in North America, earning an estimated $54 million at the box office.

It really deserves it too! Man, every review that I read seemingly sang the praises of Serkis performance as Caesar, going so far as to suggest that he should receive an Oscar nomination. I don't know if that will happen, but director Rupert Wyatt, screenwriters Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver, and the fine folks at Weta Workshop have not only added an outstanding new chapter to the "Apes" film series, but in retconning certain aspects of the original mythology, they've improved upon it. "Rise" is an origin story set in present day San Francisco, where man's own experiments with genetic engineering to cure Alzheimer's Disease, lead to the development of intelligence in apes and the onset of a war for supremacy.

If you are familiar with the flicks from the late 1960's and 1970's, play close attention throughout "Rise" for some extremely cool homages to that classic series. These folks did their homework, and it shows! I would also have to praise James Franco, John Lithgow and Freida Pinto for ably supporting Serkis central role as Caesar, all turned in fine performances. Brian Cox, Tom Felton and David Oyelowo serve as the heavies in the film, with only the respected Cox receiving short shrift in actual screen time. I don't know if the producers intend to spin off further Apes films or not, but if the movie proves to be a hit, I wouldn't be surprised. It isn't necessary mind you, as "Rise" found a comfortable way to insert itself into established Apes history that makes elegant sense.

At this point, I would prefer not to go into more specific discussion; I would only encourage everyone to go see this movie. If you're a fan of the classic Apes, you are going to be very happy with this movie, and damn glad to forget what Tim Burton trotted out back in 2001. This film will tug at your heartstrings and then rile you up at the conclusion, but do not doubt that the Apes have risen again. Hopefully they'll stick around for another go at bat. Recommended!