Once “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” gets over an overlong opening, it tells an exceptionally good story that could be a cautionary tale for those who invest in politicians.
Noa, a young chimpanzee, has encountered a world where a not-so-noble leader calls himself Proximus Caesar has a way to tap into the goodwill that followed the late leader. This Caesar’s not at all in the same camp, but that doesn’t faze followers who are willing to do his bidding.
Naturally, they’re opposed to anything Noa (Owen Teague) holds dear. The rebel listens to those he does trust and works to right the wrongs.
Using motion-capture animation, director Wes Ball creates a “Planet of the Apes” film that’s more engrossing than its predecessors. Largely, that’s because Teague is such a phenomenal actor – he makes us believe Noa is real and his emotions are deeply felt. When he encounters a human female (Freya Allan), a bond forms and soon, there’s a plan to rescue both humans and apes. That attempt kicks the film into high gear and sets it up for a great sequel.
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Humans, you see, don’t rule the world. They’re second to apes who have a desire to get something held in a ship. We don’t discover what that is until necessary. But there are talks about everything from birds of prey to banned books.
William H. Macy checks in as a historian who rather likes his lot in life. He’s not eager to upset the status quo, yet he has the intel that could make everyone’s life better. More encouraging is an orangutan named Raka (Peter Macon) who gives the woman a name (Nova) and helps bring the two closer to their destination. Ball makes sure the plot points are carefully conveyed, then kicks the action into high gear. Because the actors playing the apes are actually running, you can hear the exhaustion in their voices. It’s a neat trick that’s augmented by sound effects that make you feel like you’re right in the thick of it.
Looking a bit like “Avatar’s” Pandora, the world they inhabit would make a dandy theme park addition, complete with bird show. When Noa and Nova share their life stories, you’re reminded of countless adventures set in unseen worlds.
Because the special effects are so good, Proximus (Kevin Durand) seems even more formidable than past “Apes” leaders. He isn’t one to be tested, even though Noa has an inner drive that conquers plenty.
When “Planet of the Apes” appeared in 1968, it tossed out plenty of ideas that reach fruition in this, the umpteenth sequel. There’s a better throughline, too, and character design that plays well. When the Eagle Clan’s secret weapons come into play, “Kingdom” pops to life and makes you eager to see the next installment.
Teague is key to this. Without his emotional investment the journey wouldn’t be worth taking. He makes us want to see the wrongs righted.
Movies in a minute with film critic Bruce Miller
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Bruce Miller is editor of the Sioux City Journal.
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