In an exclusive interview with Screen Rant, Owen Teague, one of the stars of Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, sheds some light on the film's relationship with the original Planet of the Apes. As a sequel set far in the future, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes explores an ape society as a new dictator rises to power. With its release date set for May 10, this highly anticipated film boasts an impressive cast including Teague, Freya Allen, Dichen Lachman, Kevin Durand, and William H. Macy.
Teague mentions in the interview that the connection between Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes and the 1968 classic is evident even in the film's trailer. He specifically mentions a scene in which apes with lassos chase a group of humans, reminiscent of a similar human hunt scene from the original film. Teague expresses excitement about revisiting this iconic moment utilizing today's advanced technology. He also hints at other Easter eggs and design elements that pay tribute to the original Planet of the Apes, serving as nods to fans who have closely followed the franchise since its inception.
From Teague's description, it appears that Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes will strike a delicate balance between homage and originality. While it pays tribute to its predecessors, the film aims to offer viewers a fresh and updated perspective. This approach seems fitting, considering the long history of Planet of the Apes content that has captivated audiences for over fifty years.
Interestingly, despite serving as a direct sequel to War for the Planet of the Apes, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes takes a significant leap forward in time. This means that none of the characters in the new film were familiar with those from its predecessor. However, the upcoming movie cleverly incorporates hints and references to its 21st-century predecessors, even going so far as to name the major villain Proximus Caesar. This thoughtful attention to detail ensures that Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes remains connected to the overall series while still forging its own standalone narrative.
Set in a post-apocalyptic future, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes takes place after the events of War for the Planet of the Apes. Ape clans have established themselves in the oasis once sought by Caesar for colonization. In their absence, humanity has regressed to a primitive state, with individuals battling between enslavement and freedom. The film highlights the struggles of those who find themselves on the fringes of ape society, caught up in the conflicts of this burgeoning civilization.
As the release date of Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes approaches this spring, fans eagerly await the opportunity to witness how the film blends elements of the original franchise with its fresh perspective. With a focus on homage and a new chapter in the Apes saga, this continuation promises to be an enthralling addition to the beloved series.