Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes stands as a compelling testament to the enduring legacy of the Planet of the Apes franchise. Directed by Wes Ball, this installment continues the saga with a blend of heart-pounding action, intricate storytelling and profound thematic exploration. Set in a dystopian future where intelligent apes have taken over the world and humans have been reverted to a primitive state.

At the heart of the film lies the character of Noa, portrayed by Owen Teague. Through Teague’s masterful motion-capture performance, Noa emerges as a fully realized protagonist, grappling with the weight of death, the fall of something beloved to him and losing someone dear to him. Teague imbues Noa with a range of emotions, from moments of fierce determination to poignant reflections on the nature of humanity and ape-kind.

The visual effects in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes are nothing short of breathtaking. The lifelike rendering of the apes, coupled with the immersive world-building, transports audiences into a post-apocalyptic landscape teeming with both beauty and danger. From sweeping vistas of the ape civilization to intense battle sequences, every frame is meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of wonder and awe.

Thematically, the film grapples with weighty issues such as identity, loyalty, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Through the parallel struggles of humans and apes, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes invites audiences to ponder the nature of power and its corrupting influence, as well as the possibility of redemption and forgiveness in the face of adversity.

However, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is not without its flaws. Some viewers may find the pacing very slow, especially in the middle of the movie. It prioritizes the narrative a little too much in the middle, wasting 40 minutes of the almost three hour movie, building things that aren’t needed for the story to progress. Additionally, while the film introduces intriguing new characters and storylines, it also relies heavily on familiar tropes from the franchise, which may disappoint those seeking a more innovative approach.

In conclusion, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is a worthy addition to the series, offering a thrilling and thought-provoking cinematic experience that will leave audiences happy that it was made. With its stunning visual effects, powerhouse performances, and rich storytelling, this film reaffirms the enduring relevance of the Planet of the Apes franchise in today’s ever-changing world.