Enjoying Planet of the Apes Without Prior Knowledge

Planet of the Apes, a franchise that has captivated audiences for over five decades, often requires a certain familiarity with previous installments to fully appreciate its subtleties. However, it is not strictly necessary to watch all the movies to enjoy the latest entries in the franchise. This article explores how one can immerse themselves in the story without prior knowledge, highlighting some Easter eggs that may be missed and offering advice on which movies to watch first.

Understanding Easter Eggs and Their Importance

While many fans of the franchise appreciate the Easter eggs hidden within the movies, specifically those from earlier entries in the franchise, you don't need to recognize these elements to thoroughly enjoy the film. Easter eggs are subtle references or in-jokes designed for fans to appreciate, enriching the viewing experience but not essential to the overall plot and enjoyment of the movie. As one of the latest installments in the franchise, 'Planet of the Apes' (2024) set in Australia, offers its own unique storyline that stands on its own merit.

The New 2024 Version: An AU-Based Story

An Overacting Australian City

The 2024 version takes a fresh perspective on the familiar themes by depicting a wild, post-apocalyptic city in Australia. This rent-genre tale casts a different light on the franchise, emphasizing a wasteland shrouded in mystery, hinting at the disappearance of humanity over 2000 years ago. The movie plays the game of spotting "overacting Australians," simplifying the portrayal of human behavior and adding a layer of humor and satire to the narrative. This approach to the post-apocalyptic genre adds a unique flavor to the story, making it a standout in the franchise.

The Road to the New 2024 Version

The evolution of the franchise spans several decades and is rich with diverse plotlines. The 2024 version is positioned as a modern interpretation, heavily influenced by advancements in technology and storytelling. It features a single-person spaceship recreating a French book version, while the earlier 1968 original presents a high-tech, optimistic view of human survival. In contrast, the 2004 version is a more cautionary tale about humanity's struggle with mental health and environmental destruction.

Interestingly, the 1968 original, directed by Franklin J. Schaffner, is often cited as the best in the franchise. This version not only marked the beginning of the franchise but also set the stage for all that followed. Its blend of science fiction with elements of social commentary and emotional depth made it a standout in the genre. Similarly, the 2024 version also presents a thought-provoking and visually captivating story that will appeal to fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.

Advising on Which Version to Watch First

While many purists advocate for watching the original 1968 version to experience the full history of the franchise, it's not entirely necessary for newcomers. The 2024 version can be enjoyed on its own merits without prior knowledge of the previous installments. However, if you're a fan of the franchise or simply enjoy following its evolution, watching the 1968 original is highly recommended as a starting point. It offers a deep understanding of the origins and themes that have been explored throughout the franchise.

Alternatively, if you prefer to jump straight into the more recent and contemporary interpretations of the story, the 2024 Australian-set version would be a great choice. It offers a fresh take on the genre and a compelling narrative that still maintains the classic elements that made the franchise famous.

Conclusion

Whether you decide to watch the 1968 original, the 2024 update, or any of the other versions in between, the franchise is a testament to the enduring appeal of science fiction and social commentary. While some Easter eggs may be missed without prior knowledge, the core storylines and thematic richness ensure that each installment stands independently as a worthy addition to the planet of the Apes saga. No matter which version you choose, you are sure to find elements that resonate with you and keep you captivated by the futuristic adventures that await.

And as for the recently mentioned Tim Burton's 2001 version, it is certainly a unique take that added its own twist to the franchise. However, it's not essential to watching the 2024 version, and it can be appreciated on its own merits for its stylistic and narrative innovations.