How Should I Watch Planet Of The Apes: A Comprehensive Guide For Fans

Dangelo Schulist DDS 19 Jun 2025

Are you ready to dive into the thrilling world of the Planet of the Apes franchise? This iconic series has captivated audiences worldwide with its deep storytelling, groundbreaking special effects, and thought-provoking themes about humanity and evolution. If you're wondering how you should watch Planet of the Apes, you're in the right place. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step plan to fully enjoy this cinematic masterpiece.

From its origins in the 1960s to the modern reboots, the Planet of the Apes franchise spans decades of filmmaking excellence. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just starting your journey, understanding the chronological order and thematic connections between the films will enhance your viewing experience.

Throughout this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about watching Planet of the Apes, from the original series to the latest installments. We'll also discuss the best platforms to stream the films, provide recommendations for supplementary materials, and offer insights into the cultural impact of the franchise. Let's get started!

The Origin of Planet of the Apes
The Original Planet of the Apes Series
The Modern Planet of the Apes Reboot
How Should You Watch Planet of the Apes?
Where to Watch Planet of the Apes
Exploring the Themes of Planet of the Apes
Key Characters in Planet of the Apes
The Cultural Impact of Planet of the Apes
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion

The Origin of Planet of the Apes

The journey of the Planet of the Apes franchise began with a novel written by French author Pierre Boulle in 1963, titled "Monkey Planet." This groundbreaking story explored the concept of intelligent apes ruling a world where humans are the inferior species. The novel's success paved the way for the first film adaptation in 1968.

From Novel to Screen

The transition from book to screen was nothing short of revolutionary. The 1968 film, directed by Franklin J. Schaffner, starred Charlton Heston as astronaut George Taylor. It introduced audiences to the iconic twist ending that would become a hallmark of the series. The film's success spawned multiple sequels, television series, and eventually, a modern reboot.

The Original Planet of the Apes Series

The original Planet of the Apes series consists of five films released between 1968 and 1973. These films laid the foundation for the franchise's enduring appeal. Here's a breakdown of the original series:

Planet of the Apes (1968): The first film introduces the concept of a world ruled by apes.
Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970): Explores the underground civilization of mutant humans.
Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971): Follows the apes Cornelius and Zira as they travel back in time to Earth.
Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972): Chronicles the rise of Caesar, the ape who leads a rebellion against humans.
Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973): Concludes the original series with a battle for dominance between humans and apes.

Key Themes in the Original Series

The original series tackles themes such as evolution, power struggles, and the dangers of unchecked scientific advancement. These themes remain relevant today, making the films timeless classics.

The Modern Planet of the Apes Reboot

In 2011, the franchise was rebooted with "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," directed by Rupert Wyatt. This trilogy reimagines the story with cutting-edge motion capture technology and a focus on character development.

Overview of the Reboot Trilogy

Here's a summary of the reboot trilogy:

Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011): Follows the origins of Caesar, a genetically enhanced ape who leads a rebellion against his human captors.
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014): Explores the coexistence between humans and apes in a post-apocalyptic world.
War for the Planet of the Apes (2017): Concludes the trilogy with a dramatic showdown between Caesar and a ruthless human commander.

How Should You Watch Planet of the Apes?

Deciding how to watch Planet of the Apes depends on your preferences. You can choose to watch the films in release order or chronological order. Here's a breakdown of both approaches:

Release Order

Watching the films in release order allows you to experience the franchise as it unfolded over the years. Start with the original series (1968-1973), followed by the reboot trilogy (2011-2017).

Chronological Order

For a deeper understanding of the timeline, watch the films in chronological order. Begin with "Beneath the Planet of the Apes" and "Escape from the Planet of the Apes," followed by the reboot trilogy and concluding with "Battle for the Planet of the Apes."

Where to Watch Planet of the Apes

Streaming platforms offer convenient access to the Planet of the Apes franchise. Some popular options include:

HBO Max: Offers the reboot trilogy and select original films.
Amazon Prime Video: Provides access to the entire original series and reboot trilogy.
Disney+: Features select films from the franchise.

Exploring the Themes of Planet of the Apes

At its core, the Planet of the Apes franchise explores profound themes that resonate with audiences. These include:

Evolution and Survival: The series examines the natural progression of species and the fight for survival.
Human Nature: It delves into the darker aspects of human behavior, such as greed and aggression.
Equality and Empathy: The films advocate for understanding and compassion between different species.

Key Characters in Planet of the Apes

Several characters have become iconic within the franchise. Here are a few notable ones:

Caesar: The leader of the ape rebellion, Caesar is a central figure in the reboot trilogy.
George Taylor: Played by Charlton Heston, Taylor is the astronaut who discovers the planet ruled by apes.
Cornelius and Zira: These apes from the original series advocate for coexistence between humans and apes.

The Cultural Impact of Planet of the Apes

Planet of the Apes has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its influence can be seen in various forms of media, from film and television to literature and video games. The franchise's exploration of complex themes continues to inspire new generations of filmmakers and storytellers.

Legacy in Film

The franchise's success has paved the way for other science fiction films that tackle social and political issues. Its use of groundbreaking special effects has also set a standard for visual storytelling in cinema.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about watching Planet of the Apes:

Should I Watch the Original Series or the Reboot First?

It depends on your preference. If you enjoy classic films, start with the original series. If you prefer modern storytelling, begin with the reboot trilogy.

Are There Any TV Series in the Planet of the Apes Franchise?

Yes, there have been several TV series based on the franchise, including "Return to the Planet of the Apes" and "Planet of the Apes" (1974).

Conclusion

Watching the Planet of the Apes franchise is an adventure that spans decades of cinematic excellence. Whether you choose to watch the original series or the modern reboot, you'll be immersed in a world of thought-provoking storytelling and unforgettable characters. Remember to consider your preferences when deciding the viewing order and explore supplementary materials to deepen your understanding.

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Have you watched the entire franchise? What did you think? Don't forget to explore other articles on our site for more insights into the world of cinema.

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