Rise of the Planet of the Apes Movies in Order: Your Ultimate Watch Guide

Hey there, movie buffs! Today, we're going to tackle a question that's been puzzling fans since the reboot of the iconic Planet of the Apes franchise: "What's the best order to watch the Rise of the Planet of the Apes movies?" Well, grab your popcorn, because we're about to swing through the timeline and clear things up for you. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and rise planet of the apes movies in order.

Understanding the Timeline: A Brief Overview

Before we dive into the viewing order, let's quickly understand the timeline these films are set in. The original Planet of the Apes series and the reboot series are separate entities, with their own timelines and stories. We'll focus on the reboot series, which consists of four movies:

1. 1. Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
2. 2. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
3. 3. War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
4. 4. Planet of the Apes (1968, original series)

Now, you might be wondering, "Why is the original Planet of the Apes movie at the end? And why are they not in chronological order?" Great questions! Let's address that.

The Release Order: Why It Matters

The reason we're not suggesting you watch the movies in chronological order is that the storylines are not linear. The reboot series is a prequel to the original series, but it also serves as a soft reboot, meaning it tells a new story that eventually leads to the events of the original series. So, watching them in release order helps build the story and anticipation for the final reveal.

Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)

Kicking off the reboot series is "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," directed by Rupert Wyatt. This film introduces us to the brilliant scientist Will Rodman (James Franco) and his intelligent chimpanzee companion, Caesar (Andy Serkis). The story follows Caesar's journey from a pet to a leader, as he leads a revolution against humanity after being subjected to cruel treatment.

Why it's a must-watch: This movie sets the stage for the entire reboot series. It introduces us to the world of genetic engineering that led to the creation of intelligent apes and sets the events in motion that ultimately lead to the downfall of humanity.

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)

Picking up a decade after the events of "Rise," "Dawn of the Planet of the Apes" finds Caesar and his fellow apes living in a flourishing colony in the Muir Woods. Meanwhile, a group of human survivors, led by Malcolm (Jason Clarke), discover the ape colony and attempt to strike a peace deal. However, a rogue ape named Koba (Toby Kebbell) threatens to destroy the fragile peace between the two species.

Why it's a must-watch: This movie delves deeper into the political and social dynamics of both the ape and human societies. It also introduces us to new characters and expands the world of the franchise, setting the stage for the final chapter in the reboot series.

War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)

In "War for the Planet of the Apes," Caesar and his apes are pursued by a ruthless colonel (Woody Harrelson) who seeks to exterminate them. As the war between apes and humans escalates, Caesar must decide whether to seek revenge or show mercy, ultimately determining the fate of both species.

Why it's a must-watch: This movie is a thrilling conclusion to Caesar's journey and the reboot series as a whole. It ties up loose ends and sets the stage for the events of the original Planet of the Apes movie.

Planet of the Apes (1968)

Finally, we reach the original Planet of the Apes movie, directed by Franklin J. Schaffner. This classic film follows astronaut George Taylor ( Charlton Heston) as he crashes on a mysterious planet where intelligent apes rule over humans. The movie is famous for its iconic twist ending, which reveals the true nature of the planet and sets the stage for the subsequent sequels.

Why it's a must-watch: As the film that started it all, "Planet of the Apes" is a must-watch for any fan of the franchise. Its impact on pop culture is undeniable, and its themes of racism, prejudice, and societal norms still resonate today.

The Connections: How They All Fit Together

Watching the movies in release order allows you to appreciate the subtle connections and callbacks to the original series. For instance, the famous "Get your stinking paws off me, you damn dirty ape!" line from the original movie is echoed in "Rise of the Planet of the Apes." Additionally, the fates of certain characters and the overall trajectory of the story are intertwined, creating a rich and complex narrative that spans decades.

So there you have it, folks! The ultimate viewing order for the Rise of the Planet of the Apes movies. Now grab your remote, kick back, and enjoy the ride as we journey from the rise of the apes to the dawn of a new era and the war that follows.

Happy watching!