The Rise of Ape Society in the Planet of the Apes Franchise: From 1969 to Future Dominance

The Planet of the Apes franchise has captivated audiences for decades with its unique and thought-provoking narratives. One of the most fascinating aspects of this franchise is the story of ape society and how the apes came to dominate human society, a theme that has evolved over time in the sequels.

The Early Stages: Charlton Heston's Time

The franchise began in 1968 with the release of the film Planet of the Apes, which introduced the iconic opening sequence set in a dystopian future dominated by apes. The central character, Taylor, played by Charlton Heston, finds himself in this strange world on the planet of the apes, and his arrival sparks the story of what happened to human society.

Charlton Heston starred in the inaugural movie, and his character, Taylor, played a significant role until he was cast in a cameo appearance in the sequel, Escape from the Planet of the Apes. In the 1971 sequel, while Heston did not have a substantial role, the premise of the movie revolved around the destruction of Earth by a hydrogen bomb, effectively putting an end to further sequels for a time.

The Shift in Ape Society

The franchise was reinvigorated in 1972 with the release of Conquest of the Planet of the Apes. In this film, the story shifted from a character-driven narrative involving Taylor to focusing on Zira (Kim Hunter) and Cornelius (Marty Feldman). They travel back in time with Heston's ship to the 1970s in the United States, setting the stage for the future domination of apes.

Later sequels, such as Battle for the Planet of the Apes, delve deeper into the rise of the ape society. In these films, the character of Caesar (Roddy McDowall in Conquest, then Andy Serkis in later films) takes the lead in leading a rebellion of enslaved apes. Over the decades, Caesar and his descendants become the rulers of a world dominated by apes.

The Future of Ape Society

The future ape society depicted in the franchise is not just a reversal of the roles of apes and humans; it is a complex society with its own hierarchies and rules. In the film Battle for the Planet of the Apes, Caesar's leadership is revered thousands of years in the future. Interestingly, young Caesar was named after his future self, adding an intriguing layer to the character's story and the franchise's mythology.

The shift from humans to apes as the dominant species is an exploration of power dynamics and societal constructs, inviting viewers to reflect on humanity's relationship with animals and the possibility of a future where these roles are reversed.

Conclusion

The rise of ape society in the Planet of the Apes franchise is a compelling narrative that has evolved over time, from the intriguing initial storyline to the depiction of future ape dominance. The franchise's exploration of societal flips and the themes of power and leadership continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless cinematic experience.