Of all the long-running science-fiction movie franchises, perhaps the most durable is also one of the goofiest. Since 1968, Planet of the Apes movies have delighted hardcore sci-fi fans and casual moviegoers alike. The secret to the success of the franchise is oddly found in its constant reinvention. Each Apes film is radically different from the previous one, and it’s safe to say no other sci-fi franchise has taken swings as wild as the Apes movies. (After all, what other series of movies destroys the entire Earth in its second installment and then figures out a way to keep going after that?)
But for the casual viewer, the number of films in the franchise (nine and counting) might make the watchability of these films a daunting task. Where should you start? How many Apes timelines are there? Which films are the best?
