“Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” has accomplished a rare feat. Director Matt Reeves’ follow up to the 2011 blockbuster “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” (directed by Rupert Wyatt) surpasses its predecessor.
The film takes place 10 years after the events of “Rise of the Planet of the Apes.” The AZL-113 virus has wiped out a large portion of the human population and resulted in the collapse of human civilization.
At the same time, the ape population outside of San Francisco, governed by Caesar (Andy Serkis), has grown and strengthened.
The remaining human population is largely unaware of their neighbors until a chance encounter between a human and an ape scouting group. When a member of the human party panics, the resulting injury forces Caesar to show his strength both to the apes and humans.
What ensues reveals both the best and the worst of humanity.
In spite of its kitschy origins (ie – the original Planet of the Apes films), this reincarnation continues to offer intelligent and inspiring storytelling. That combined with the mind-blowing motion capture special effects, make this film both intellectually stimulating and aesthetically pleasing to watch.
That’s a rare combination in a summer blockbuster.
Add in a phenomenal cast including the likes of Gary Oldman, Jason Clarke (“Zero Dark Thirty”), Keri Russell, and the always inspiring Andy Serkis, and this summer blockbuster raises the bar for summer flicks.
If you’re a fan of good storytelling and beautiful digital animation, this is a must see this summer.
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