References to Earlier 'Planet of the Apes' Films in 'Rise of the Planet of the Apes'

Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011) is not just a standalone movie; it weaves a rich tapestry of references to the original 'Planet of the Apes' films, creating a seamless connection between the reboot and its predecessors. This article explores several key references that underscore the lineage and thematic consistency between the two franchises.

Character Names and Memorable References

A central character in Rise of the Planet of the Apes is Caesar, the main protagonist. This name is a direct reference to Cornelius, the mythic ape leader from the original series. Both characters embody the spirit of leadership, intellect, and rebellion that defines the Apes' struggle against human domination.

The Simian Flu and the Evolutionary Synergy

The subplot involving the Simian Flu in Rise of the Planet of the Apes echoes the themes of evolution and the downfall of humanity that are central to the original films. The virus represents a catalyst for ape intelligence, mirroring the events of the first film where a space shuttle crash unleashes an alien pathogen on Earth, leading to the rise of a new order where apes have evolved to become the dominant species.

The Ape Escape: A Tale of Rebellion and Freedom

The climax of Rise of the Planet of the Apes features an escape scene that harks back to the themes of rebellion and freedom found in the original series. The apes' eventual uprising, much like that depicted in Conquest of the Planet of the Apes, parallels the revolt led by Caesar’s ancestors. This theme underscores the cyclical nature of power dynamics and the quest for freedom.

The Statue of Liberty and the Theme of Human Downfall

While the Statue of Liberty is not directly shown in Rise of the Planet of the Apes, it serves as a recurring motif in the franchise. The film sets the stage for the eventual downfall of human civilization, much like what is depicted in the original series. This theme is subtly reinforced through scenes that foreshadow a world where apes reign supreme and humans are relegated to subordinate roles.

The Ending: A Hinge Between Narratives

The ending of Rise of the Planet of the Apes is particularly poignant. It hints at the broader conflict between humans and apes, serving as a prologue to the sequels and the original series. The final scenes suggest the beginning of the apes' rise to power, a central theme in the original films. This ending not only ties the reboot to its predecessors but also sets the stage for the narrative arc explored in subsequent installments.

Rise of the Planet of the Apes is a modern remake and substantial rewriting of the original Conquest of the Planet of the Apes. In this reboot, Caesar, the child of Cornelius and Zira, leads a rebellion of intelligent apes who overturn human civilization. This new narrative builds on the foundation laid by the earlier films, while exploring the origins of the ape civilization.

Interconnected Timeline: The story in Conquest of the Planet of the Apes shows Caesar leading a rebellion of intelligent apes in the 1990s. The characters of Cornelius and Zira are already established in Escape from the Planet of the Apes, having escaped Earth shortly before its nuclear destruction and travelled back in time to the 1970s. Their child, Caesar, is raised by a circus owner, iconic for his role in the franchise.

Narrative Continuity: Battle for the Planet of the Apes sits between Escape from the Planet of the Apes and Planet of the Apes. It portrays the final conflict between the remnants of human civilization and the emergent ape civilization. This narrative continuity connects the storyline of Rise of the Planet of the Apes to the broader arc of the original trilogy.