Dawn of the Planet of the Apes begins with the harrowing notion that the human race is being wiped out by a deadly epidemic and the genetically evolved apes are continuing to develop more and more human-like. While most of the world is struggling to survive, the apes are living on top of an energy source that can help the few survivors that are still alive. But, due to the abuse the apes endured in their past, none of them are willing to cooperate, except for their intelligent, courageous leader, Caesar who had mostly fond memories of being with humans. It’s an epic war between apes and humans. Who will win the fight?
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is a fast paced, thrilling film that is a must see this summer. Following the success of the previous film Rise of the Planet of the Apes, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes grows much darker and more intense. The humans are desperate to survive, whereas the apes are living more comfortably than ever, since now they are the kings of the world. Caesar is trying to accommodate to the humans, but due to several mishaps, it’s difficult for him and his fellow apes to trust them. Caesar’s right hand “man”, Koba is scary and evil and will stop at nothing to end the human race.
The storyline of the film is great, the thought that apes could have that power is frightening to think about, although very far fetched, directorMatt Reeves and writers Mark Bomback, Rick Jaffa, and Amanda Silver create this setting to make audiences believe that anything could be possible. The film turns increasingly dark as time passes by and one ape, Koba who is beyond ruthless, is the culprit. In the first film, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, the audience roots for the apes. After all the torture they endure throughout the film, the audience hopes to see them fight back and “rise” to the top. In this film, it’s hard to decide which side to root for, especially watching Koba.
The acting in the film is perfect. No one outshines another and no one over acts. Jason Clarke, Gary Oldman and Keri Russell are great as the few survivors just trying to get by. Their constant desperation creates the eerie tone of the film, and sets up the chaos that everyone on Earth must endure. Andy Serkis portrays the emotions of Caesar the leader of the apes, and he does a fantastic job. It’s almost scary how human-like Caesar’s expressions and mannerisms are. The CGI created in the film is astonishing.
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is highly recommended to anyone that enjoys action packed, sci-fi films, such as it's predecessor, Rise of the Planet of the Apes and movies with great graphics. Also, to anyone that enjoys films filled with hope, fear heart and the thought that an intelligent ape can be compared to one of William Shakespeare's most noble characters is utterly fascinating.
