Planet of the Apes (1968)

Featured Audience Ratings

• Daniel P

  
  A classic that, unfortunately, does show its age, Planet of the Apes trucks with the big satires - think: Animal Farm - and is really about paradigm shifts and epistemological derivation of power in a society. It brings to mind especially the evolution vs. creation debates that some… More
  A classic that, unfortunately, does show its age, Planet of the Apes trucks with the big satires - think: Animal Farm - and is really about paradigm shifts and epistemological derivation of power in a society. It brings to mind especially the evolution vs. creation debates that some U.S. school boards are (somehow) still having. Charlton Heston borders on the ridiculous, but in another sense, this is an epic, like his other works - Ben Hur, The Ten Commandments - and so it requires that "big" approach. The ending is corny, but for the most part this is a well thought-out and valuable piece of speculative fiction, and a film I liked much more than its remake, which (unfortunately), I must now make myself rewatch.

• Directors C

  
  [img]http://images.rottentomatoes.com/images/user/icons/icon14.gif[/img] Planet Of The Apes is a true science fiction movie classic that's intriguing political objection and interesting social commentary doesn't get in the way of engrossing drama and visually arresting… More
  [img]http://images.rottentomatoes.com/images/user/icons/icon14.gif[/img] Planet Of The Apes is a true science fiction movie classic that's intriguing political objection and interesting social commentary doesn't get in the way of engrossing drama and visually arresting action sequences. It never attacks you with it's debate or assault you with noisy gun fights, it's slow pacing and laid back attitude is the most likely cause of this but it's true purpose is to entertain and despite the pacing it never gets boring no matter how many times you see it.

• Reid V

  
  An interesting critique of "civilized society" and one hell of an imaginative film with a great ending. But sadly, unable to really soar above Heston's gag-inducing expository monologues.

• Martin S

  
  One of the true classics. The first part of the movie until the apes arive has that perfect slow pace. Where nothing is really happening...but your still enjoying it far more than any scene in todays movies. That simply can't be done anymore. I think the apesuits look good still… More
  One of the true classics. The first part of the movie until the apes arive has that perfect slow pace. Where nothing is really happening...but your still enjoying it far more than any scene in todays movies. That simply can't be done anymore. I think the apesuits look good still today...it doesn't take long untill it feels natural. This movie is just what it's supposed to be. The one and only...

• xGary X

  
  A team of astronauts crash land on a planet that is ruled by a race of highly evolved simians who treat the mute, primitive human population like animals. On the surface, Planet Of the Apes looks like just another sci-fi monster movie but the real strength of the film is in its… More
  A team of astronauts crash land on a planet that is ruled by a race of highly evolved simians who treat the mute, primitive human population like animals. On the surface, Planet Of the Apes looks like just another sci-fi monster movie but the real strength of the film is in its wonderful script. Beneath the (still rather good) ape make up and polystyrene sets is a cunning social satire that tackles subjects as wide ranging as science versus religious dogma, the teaching of evolution, the treatment of animals by the human race and its propensity for the abuse of the environment, all wrapped up in some nice cold war paranoia. Charlton Heston puts in one of his most dominating performances as the misanthropic, cynical man lost in this topsy turvy madhouse and despite being masked by their extensive prosthetics, the cast of simians are all fantastic too, particularly Maurice Evans as Dr. Zaius, the stubborn minded bureaucrat who is desperately trying to maintain the status quo so threatened by the appearance of a talking human. But the real kick in the teeth comes during the final scene which stands up as one of the best endings of all time, astonishingly ruined by the films own DVD cover! One of the best sci-fis ever made certainly, and probably one of the best films full stop.

• Jeff "

  
  Planet of the Apes, along with Stanley Kubrick's 2001 A Space Odyssey are two of the most important redefining Sc-Fi films of the late 60's. Adapted from the French work, La Planete des singes, Planet of the Apes is a flawless Sci-Fi film that has stood the test of time.… More
  Planet of the Apes, along with Stanley Kubrick's 2001 A Space Odyssey are two of the most important redefining Sc-Fi films of the late 60's. Adapted from the French work, La Planete des singes, Planet of the Apes is a flawless Sci-Fi film that has stood the test of time. This is a superb monument in Sci-Fi films and remains a classic film ever since its release. With a stunning cast of actors at hand, director Franklin J. Schaffner has crafted one of the most stunning Sci-Fi films, that is maybe only matched by Star Wars. Planet of the Apes is a highly entertaining film with a cast of such legendary actors such as Charlton Heston, Roddy McDowall and James Whitmore. This is a well crafted film that is simply thrilling and exciting to watch. I enjoyed every moment of the movie, and I thought it was very well done for the time. Despite the fact that it was made in the 60's, I still think this one holds up very well. This film is timeless, unlike so many other Sc-Fi films that fail to hit the mark; Planet of the Apes succeeds on every level. The plot is wonderful, the acting terrific and the directing is flawless. Add to that one of the most memorable film endings in cinema, and you have a classic. This is a great film that is one of the most important Sci-Fi films in the history of the genre. A brilliantly constructed film, this film is a must see.

• Alexander D

  
  An adaptation of Pierre Boule's French sci-fi novel (which I cannot say anything about yet, as I have not read it, but I plan to soon), the 1968 version of PLANET OF THE APES is an absolute must-see classic. Truly brilliant!

• Brad W

  
  Planet of the Apes is the sci fi film that defined a generation, and is honestly one of the greatest films of all time.

• Shawn E

  
  A classic sci-fi with the idea of apes becoming the superior race.

• Liam G

  
  A sci-fi classic.

• KJ P

  
  As three scientists crash land on an unknown planet, they search for any living organism they can find in order to survive. However, they stumble upon something this is beyond anything they can imagine. They are now living among apes, who treat humans like humans treat animals. As… More
  As three scientists crash land on an unknown planet, they search for any living organism they can find in order to survive. However, they stumble upon something this is beyond anything they can imagine. They are now living among apes, who treat humans like humans treat animals. As ridiculous as the concept may seem, it feels real, due to Charlton Heston's great performance. This film is more of a realization and adventure film rather than an all out ape war with the title implies. I loved this film from beginning to end for not giving us gimmicks and sticking to a fantastically toned storyline. It's slow moving but extremely engaging and will have you on the edge of your seat at what is going to happen next. From action to adventure, from drama to science fiction, Planet of the Apes is an amazing film for it's time and should be remembered by everyone. This is a wonderful picture!

• Aaron N

  
  George Taylor: A planet where apes evolved from men? There's got to be an answer. Dr. Zaius: Don't look for it, Taylor. You may not like what you find. Charlton Heston is an astronaut who has traveled into the future by remaining on a space ship, only to crash land on a… More
  George Taylor: A planet where apes evolved from men? There's got to be an answer. Dr. Zaius: Don't look for it, Taylor. You may not like what you find. Charlton Heston is an astronaut who has traveled into the future by remaining on a space ship, only to crash land on a mysterious planet inhabited by intellectual apes. Allow me to sum up the rest of this movie in Simpsonese: Ape: Help, the human's about to escape. Troy: Get your paws off me, you dirty ape. Ape: [gasping] He can talk! Apes: [in unison, rythmed] He can talk He can talk He can talk He can talk He can talk He can talk Troy: [singing] I can siiiiiing! [funky beat of "Rock Me Amadeus" starts playing] Female Nurse Ape: Ooh, help me Dr. Zaius! Apes: [in unison] Dr. Zaius, Dr. Zaius Dr. Zaius, Dr. Zaius Dr. Zaius, Dr. Zaius Oh... Dr. Zaius Ape: Dr. Zaius, Dr. Zaius. Troy: What's wrong with me? Zaius: I think you're crazy. Troy: Want a second opinion. Zaius: You're also lazy. Apes: [in unison] Dr. Zaius, Dr. Zaius Dr. Zaius, Dr. Zaius Dr. Zaius, Dr. Zaius [one ape starts breakdancing] Oh... Dr. Zaius Ape: Dr. Zaius, Dr. Zaius. Troy: Can I play the piano anymore? Zaius: Of course you can. Troy: Well I couldn't before! [plays piano] Third Act: Troy: [singing] I hate every ape I see From chimpan-a to chimpan-zee No, you'll never make a monkey out of me Oh my God, I was wrong It was Earth all along You've finally made a monkey Apes: Yes, we've finally made a monkey Troy: Yes, you've finally made a monkey out of me Apes: Yes, we've finally made a monkey out of you Troy: I love you, Dr. Zaius! This review may seem goofy, but the movie is very goofy. It's also very frustrating to find Charlton Heston try to reason with the apes who are just so damned stubborn. It's still enjoyable however. George Taylor: Doctor, I'd like to kiss you goodbye. Dr. Zira: All right, but you're so damned ugly.

• Spencer S

  
  An irresistible watch, this can be categorized as sci-fi, social commentary, and action film all rolled up into a ball of mindless fun. This film sucked me in, and I graciously watched with all the intent of a dog chasing a flashlight beam. It was inventive with its pristine special… More
  An irresistible watch, this can be categorized as sci-fi, social commentary, and action film all rolled up into a ball of mindless fun. This film sucked me in, and I graciously watched with all the intent of a dog chasing a flashlight beam. It was inventive with its pristine special effects, make-up, and action packed sequences, including a crash landing into a river, sweeping views of a desolate wasteland, and the always dramatic reveal of the planet's hierarchy: apes riding horses. Even today that simple image takes your breath away. The story revolves around Heston, who is perfect for this gimmicky performance, full of loud cackles, toothy grins, and swearing with a cigar crunched in his mouth. Instead of insinuating that humans are the aliens on a planet unknown to us, there's a feeling of mistaken identity, Heston crammed into the personification of a lesser race of beings also inhabiting the planet. As Heston's intelligence is revealed, it's more of a psychological, societal, and even emotional picture, one that addresses racial pretensions, the separation of church and state, science and religion, civil rights, and wartime ambitions, all to claim that man will somehow kill itself off with its technological exploits. Going in I knew the ending, but it seemed obvious from the get-go, so it did ruin it for me. Its deeply cerebral, but surely funny, as many gags make it as campy as intellectual, which turned some people off to it and Heston's overacting; but I believe it drives the film further along. I was upset by the misogynistic views that the film took towards the character of Nova, but at least Kim Hunter gave an intelligent performance as Dr. Zira. It's fun, it's dramatic, it's an ape of a good time.

• Everett J

  
  With the trailers for "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" coming out, I decided to revisit this franchise and get caught up. I didn't remember much about this except some quotes and the ending. This came out in 1968 and while it shows it's age, it was way ahead of… More
  With the trailers for "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" coming out, I decided to revisit this franchise and get caught up. I didn't remember much about this except some quotes and the ending. This came out in 1968 and while it shows it's age, it was way ahead of it's time. I can imagine in '68 this being a mind blowing movie. Charlton Heston is great, of course he is awesome in everything. Overacting aside, he does a good job of making you invested in his character and what he is going through. The apes look cheesy, but I think that is part of charm of the movie. Good old fashion sci-fi movie that drags in a few parts, but overall remains pretty entertaining forty years later.

• AJ V

  
  A fantastic sci-fi movie, it's very interesting, and I think the best part is the ending. A sci-fi classic, if you like sci-fi you should see this movie.

• David L

  
  Taking Darwin's Theory of Evolution and turning it on its head, this classic slice of 60s sci-fi is visually impressive, thoroughly exciting, and most importantly, extremely thought provoking: not only does it poke fun at organised religion's refusal to accept the whole… More
  Taking Darwin's Theory of Evolution and turning it on its head, this classic slice of 60s sci-fi is visually impressive, thoroughly exciting, and most importantly, extremely thought provoking: not only does it poke fun at organised religion's refusal to accept the whole evolutionary process, but it is also a savage indictment of humanity as a whole, quite correctly identifying us as a violent race destined to destroy ourselves. Charlton Heston stars as US astronaut Taylor, who along with two fellow spacemen, awakens from suspended animation to discover that not only have they overslept a tad (by a couple of thousand years) but have also crash landed on a strange planet where apes are the dominant species and humans are their slaves. Although Heston is undeniably superb in his role as the dumbstruck Taylor struggling to cope with life as an ape's plaything, it is those who play the lead simians that deserve the highest praise of all, acting convincingly beneath John Chambers' impressive iconic monkey make-up. Roddy McDowell and Kim Hunter are excellent as Cornelius and Zira, the likable chimpanzee scientists who believe Taylor's story and try to help him escape to freedom, but my favourite character has got to be Dr. Zaius (Maurice Evans), the orangutan who hides the truth behind his species' rise to power, tries to have our hero castrated, lobotomises his friend, and accuses Cornelius and Zira of heresy, albeit all for the good of his own race. What a delightfully devious yet strangely admirable man err, I mean ape. It's now been over 40 years since Planet of the Apes was originally released, but it has stood the test of time well, remaining the best of the long running ape series (and infinitely better than Tim Burton's abysmal remake/reimagining) and well deserving of its high praise and 'classic' status (the ending alone is worthy of this accolade: it's one of the finest twists in the history of cinema). Simply one of the best of the sci-fi genre

• Conner R

  
  One of those movies that comes out of nowhere and manages to ask all the right questions in all the right ways. It isn?t a simple allegory to racism and slavery, but the universal theme of prejudice and the way species deal with one another. However, to say that Planet of the Apes is… More
  One of those movies that comes out of nowhere and manages to ask all the right questions in all the right ways. It isn?t a simple allegory to racism and slavery, but the universal theme of prejudice and the way species deal with one another. However, to say that Planet of the Apes is simply a movie about that would be tarnishing its name. It takes you to a completely new and exciting world that has different rules and goals. I feel as though it is just as much about technology, love, economics and environmentalism as it is prejudice. While we might first view the film through Taylor?s eyes at first, for me, the apes are far more interesting and well developed characters. Cornelius and Zira are perhaps my favorite characters in the entire film, they portray life and love in such a unique way that it really makes you question what makes us human. While the movie plays out as a cautionary tale to society and designs itself to warn us of our possible demise, It plays as a poetic ending to our existence. What make Planet of the Apes not just another 60s Sci-Fi movie is partly in the way that it was made and conceived. It takes the basic concept of Pierre Boulle?s novel and turns it into one of the most glorious looks into another way of life. It becomes less about the simple nature the novel presents and becomes more about creating a world that is full of new and fresh ideas. It?s not shot in a corny way or bloated with cheap special effects, it uses practical and believable sets and costumes. The performances also play into that notion, Roddy McDowall and Kim Hunter really sell the slightly more evolved Chimpanzees. Not once does it feel like a campy or gimmicky film, it is intricately shot and designed to be a believable experience. Another great element is the perfect soundtrack from Jerrry Goldsmith, he perfectly captures the horror and haunting nature of a lot of the sequences. Every time I watch Planet of the Apes, I respect it more and more. It?s not just eye candy or a typical Sci-Fi movie, it dares to go one step more. It?s more sophisticated than it sometimes gets credit for because it?s not just a movie or piece of entertainment. While movies like 2001: A Space Odyssey and Metropolis were great works of art, Planet of the Apes stands above as the definition of great science fiction.

• Jens S

  
  A Sci-fi classic. The eerie atmosphere of the first 20 minutes are unmatched, as three astronauts explore the planet they landed on to the sounds of a really disturbing soundtrack. Once the apes enter the scene, the film turns into a smart parable on the human condition and our way of… More
  A Sci-fi classic. The eerie atmosphere of the first 20 minutes are unmatched, as three astronauts explore the planet they landed on to the sounds of a really disturbing soundtrack. Once the apes enter the scene, the film turns into a smart parable on the human condition and our way of treating each other and nature. The beautifully designed set piece and great make-up effects were outstanding for their time and still look pretty great to this day. If only 40 years of pop-culture (and the US DVD cover, as I see) didn't give away the great twist at the end...Don't bother seeing the lame Tim Burton remake, or the sequels, this is the only Planet of the Apes film that matters.

• Wahida K

  
  Great Classic

• Anthony L

  
  Classic sci-fi. I love the Planet of the Apes films, they're an integral part of modern cinema and they've got Monkeys in them!!! Brilliant!

Read all 20 featured audience ratings