I’m not opposed to a standard sci fi action drama but was glad to see that this origins flick tried to be a little more. Before the apes ruled the world there was one. And I actually enjoyed the character of Caesar the ape, who at the hands of science, grows up right before our eyes. His awakening to his surroundings and his struggles through the movie are what really compel.
The people in the movie are all for the most part a little less dimensional. Franco is effective enough as the paternal scientist though at times his naiveté (or stupidity) is a little annoying. His pretty girlfriend, Freida Pinto, shows up just enough to make a few cautionary utterances, though mostly it seems like they don’t talk of anything happening that’s of import. And John Lithgow adds a lovely layer and emotional drive.
The special effects, primarily the apes all being cgi, is effectively done, although at times a little disconcerting when they’re just supposed to be apes. Maybe not perfect in either aspect there is both enough action as well as enough nods to a more complex allegory to keep me engaged.
Notable dvd releases 8/9:
- Jumping the Broom – Nothing compelling me to check out this two families conflict coming up to a wedding, pass.
- Mars Needs Moms – Animated space hijinks, pass.
- Paul – This sci fi spoof almost looks funny from the director of Superbad/Adventureland, probably pass.
- Super – Cast of Rainn Wilson, Liv Tyler, and Ellen Page almost make this this downtrodden man tries to be a superhero appealing, probably pass.
- Your Highness – Terrible reviews kept me away from this low-brow knights genre comedy, pass.
