The Rise of the Apes: Everything You Need to Know

Planet of the Apes first hit the silver screen in 1968. That was back before the technology of CGI, computer animated features, and high definition. Through the 70's, 4 films were added to the 'Planet of the Apes' story. Charleton Heston became an icon for the human existence in motion pictures. The films slowly became less and less interesting, and declining in popularity. So the dynasty became untouched for 25 years.

In 2001, Twentieth Century Fox decided to buy the rights and up the stakes for a re-make. Tim Burton as director and Mark Whalburg as Captain Leo Davidson, the film was a huge success at the box office. Many lovers of the original films, weren't happy with Tim Burton's remake. Claiming "It did not hold true to the original story". I personally really enjoyed the film and so did the rest of the world.

Finally, Twentieth Century Fox is ready for their next film in the series, Rise of the Apes. While many expected this film to be the proceeding chapter after, Planet of the Apes, where Captain Leo Davidson would be battling the apes on (future)Earth, it is not. Rise of the Apes will be set in present day San Francisco. The film will cover the story of genetic testing and engineering and to the development of primate intelligence and the war for supremacy. The film will be a prequel story, to the first story. There will be no talking monkeys and there will be no world domination of primates in this film. It will be very science fiction. Also, the apes will be created using CGI. Lots of the same technology that was used in the Avatar series. This will be the first time in the series, that costumed characters will not be playing the role of the apes.

The screenplay will be adapted by Rupert Wyatt. Rupert is really only known for one other project, The Escapist. While a solid film, it's a risk to put the future of one of the largest franchises in history in hands of such a young director,

Let's talk casting.

James Franco is set to play the lead, "a young and driven scientist who becomes crucial in the fight between humans and apes." Franco whose best known for his portrayals in the Spiderman series, Milk, and Pineapple Express. He's played in a countless number of films. James Franco is an intelligent young actor (currently studying at Colombia University) and is great cast for this role. According to Variety "Franco beat out most of Hollywood's young actors".

Playing the villainous owner of the primate sanctuary which mistreats the apes that are held there, will be Brian Cox. Cox has been seen in quite a few films over the past 20 years. He's played along side every A list actor in the biz and it'll be nice to see him get some spotlight.

Where will a villainous character be without a slightly torn, but loyal son? Tom Felton, who is best known as Draco Malfoy (also the  son of a villainous character) will be playing Brian Cox's son. No details have been announced yet on all the details of Felton's character.

While all of the dimensions of the character is not quite announced, playing James Franco's father will be John Lithgow. A two time Oscar nominee, Lithgow will be a perfect match to play an Alzheimer's stricken older man.

Other exciting leads and starring characters in this film are Don Cheadle, Ferida Pinto, and David Oyelowo. When other casting arrangements and announcements have been made, I'll be sure to have it.


The Rise of the Apes will hit theaters June 24, 2011. This will be the same week as Pixar's Cars 2, a week after The Green Lantern and a week after Transformers 3. What a summer 2011 will be.