Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

The year of the apes continues to reign with Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, a worthy addition to a beloved franchise that has been a cornerstone of my cinematic journey. I fondly remember Rise of the Planet of the Apes as one of the first films that ignited my passion for cinema. Its innovative storytelling and groundbreaking visual effects left an indelible mark on me, sparking a deep interest in the art of filmmaking. When War for the Planet of the Apes was released during my first year of avidly following new releases, it only deepened my appreciation for the series. The film's intense narrative and emotional depth showcased the franchise's ability to evolve and remain relevant, solidifying its place in my personal pantheon of great films.

Despite my excitement for this latest installment, I held some reservations, as I feared it might not live up to the high standards set by its predecessors and potentially diminish my love for the franchise. The 2010’s trilogy had set a high bar with its complex characters and thought-provoking themes, and I worried that Kingdom might struggle to match that legacy.

I am delighted to report that Kingdom surpassed my expectations. Instead of revisiting the Christ-like figure of Caesar, whose journey of leading the apes to liberation was masterfully portrayed in the previous trilogy, this film boldly explores the aftermath of his contributions. We are introduced to new characters, fresh narratives, and unforeseen challenges. This shift in focus breathes new life into the series, offering a fresh perspective into the world of the Apes.

The film does a remarkable job of illustrating how Caesar's teachings can be variously interpreted and misunderstood. We witness characters using his philosophies to justify war, promote peace, and even question their authenticity. This exploration of divergent beliefs and their impacts adds a rich layer of complexity to the narrative. It underscores the idea that legacies are not monolithic but are instead shaped by those who inherit them.

For instance, we see the film's “villain” Proximus prop up one of Caesar’s core beliefs, “Apes together strong”, as a way to ratify his kingdom together in their unification against the humans. We also see Proximus study the Roman Empire, which is fitting since he follows in the footsteps of past Roman leaders by misinterpreting and excluding core religious text to expand his rule. Another key teaching of Caesar’s was “Ape shall not harm Ape”, but Proximus does not proclaim this to his followers. Instead, he and his warriors harm apes who do not join their cause and use their brutality to force other clans to join his growing Kingdom.

Another illustration of this theme comes from Raka, who is not as devious as Proximus but does follow Caesar’s teachings to a fault. He believes that Caesar’s testaments must be followed to a tee, often reciting his teachings and insisting they are the true law. While Proximus may be akin to political figures in our world who use religion to propel their own growth, Raka is reminiscent of a missionary or priest whose goal is spreading his own faith to as many as he can. 

Finally, we have the lead of this new installment, Noa. Noa boldly confronts the words of Caesar to Raka, questioning their validity after tragedy strikes his own clan. He wonders if his teachings have to be the law if they can lead to potential harmful outcomes. Noa's journey is both personal and universal, as his broader struggles of identity and purpose are sure to resonate with many viewers. His character arc is compelling and nuanced, providing a fresh lens through which to explore the established world of the Apes.

The religious metaphors in Kingdom resonate deeply with real life. The film vividly illustrates how Caesar's teachings are used to justify war, promote peace, or question authenticity, echoing how religious texts have been employed in real life to justify conflicts, advocate for harmony, or incite skepticism. This nuanced exploration of faith, belief, and interpretation adds a rich layer of complexity to the film's narrative. It reflects how real-world religious sectors where foundational texts are subject to manipulation for personal and political purposes, showcasing the interpretive flexibility of religious teachings. This dynamic is reminiscent of historical movements like the Crusades or the Protestant Reformation. Kingdom serves as a poignant allegory for the complex interplay between religion, power, and interpretation, highlighting how teachings meant to uplift can be co-opted for control and division. This reflection on faith's dual potential for unity and manipulation offers a thought-provoking commentary on the nature of belief and the human condition, enriching the film's thematic depth and societal relevance.

The visual storytelling in Kingdom is also noteworthy. The film's cinematography and special effects continue the franchise's tradition of pushing technological boundaries. The worldbuilding and visual set pieces are some of the franchise’s best to date, as the detailed depiction of the apes and their environment immerses the audience in a vividly realized world, enhancing the emotional and thematic depth of the story.

Overall, I am very much a fan of Kingdom. Although it does not surpass Dawn of the Planet of the Apes as my favorite installment, it offers a wealth of themes and ideas that warrant further exploration in subsequent viewings. This film enriches the world of the Apes in unexpected ways, ensuring that the franchise remains as captivating as ever. Its ability to introduce new characters and storylines while honoring the legacy of the previous films is a testament to the creative vision behind the series. Kingdom is not just a continuation but an expansion, promising a future full of potential and intrigue for fans old and new.

8/10