Planet Of The Apes Movies: How Many Are There?

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The "Planet of the Apes" franchise has captivated audiences for decades with its compelling narratives and thought-provoking themes. With a rich history spanning over half a century, many fans often wonder, "How many Planet of the Apes movies are there?" In this article, we will explore the entire film series, providing insights into each installment and their impact on popular culture.

The franchise began in 1968 with the release of the original "Planet of the Apes," which set the stage for a saga that would include sequels, reboots, and spin-offs. As we delve into the numerous films, we will not only count them but also discuss their significance and evolution over the years. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need about the "Planet of the Apes" movies.

From the groundbreaking special effects of the original film to the modern CGI that brought the apes to life in the recent trilogy, the advancements in filmmaking techniques have paralleled the themes of the stories. Join us as we take a journey through time, exploring the cinematic legacy of the "Planet of the Apes" franchise.

Table of Contents

1. Origins of Planet of the Apes

The "Planet of the Apes" franchise originated from Pierre Boulle's 1963 novel "La Planète des Singes." The novel presented a dystopian world where apes had evolved to become the dominant species, while humans were subjugated. The thought-provoking themes of the book caught the attention of Hollywood, leading to its adaptation into a film.

The first movie, released in 1968, was directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and starred Charlton Heston. Its success resulted in a series of sequels, a television series, and eventually a reboot that introduced a new generation to the powerful story of evolution, society, and morality.

2. The Original Series

The original series of "Planet of the Apes" consists of five films released between 1968 and 1973. Each film built upon the story of the previous installment, exploring various themes such as power, societal structure, and the consequences of human actions.

2.1 Original Movies List

  • Planet of the Apes (1968): The film that started it all, featuring astronaut George Taylor (Charlton Heston) who lands on a planet ruled by intelligent apes.
  • Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971): The story follows three apes who escape to Earth, where they face both fascination and fear from humans.
  • Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972): This film depicts a future where apes are used as slaves and chronicles the rise of Caesar, an intelligent ape.
  • Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973): The concluding chapter of the original series, focusing on the struggle for coexistence between apes and humans.
  • Planet of the Apes (2001): A remake directed by Tim Burton, which offers a new perspective on the original story but received mixed reviews.

3. The Reboot Series

In the 2010s, the "Planet of the Apes" franchise was rebooted with a fresh approach, utilizing advanced CGI to create realistic ape characters. This new trilogy redefined the series and attracted a new generation of fans.

3.1 Reboot Movies List

  • Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011): This film chronicles the origins of Caesar and the beginning of the ape uprising.
  • Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014): Set years after the first film, this story follows the conflict between humans and apes as they struggle for survival.
  • War for the Planet of the Apes (2017): The final installment of the reboot trilogy, focusing on Caesar's fight against a ruthless human army.

4. Spin-offs and Adaptations

Beyond the main film series, "Planet of the Apes" has inspired various spin-offs, including animated series, television adaptations, and comic books. These adaptations have expanded the universe and explored different facets of the ape-human conflict.

  • TV Series (1974): A live-action television series aired for one season, further exploring the world of the apes.
  • Animated Series (1975): An animated show aimed at younger audiences, which featured a different take on the ape world.
  • Comic Books: Numerous comic book series have been produced, offering new stories and character developments.

5. Cultural Impact of the Franchise

The "Planet of the Apes" franchise has had a significant cultural impact, influencing not only cinema but also literature, art, and social commentary. Its themes resonate with audiences, prompting discussions about morality, power, and the consequences of human actions.

The iconic imagery of the apes and thought-provoking narratives have made the franchise a staple in science fiction. The phrase "It's a madhouse!" from the original film has entered popular culture, symbolizing chaos and the consequences of societal collapse.

6. Overview of Film Statistics

Here's a quick overview of the films in the "Planet of the Apes" franchise along with their release years:

Movie TitleRelease Year
Planet of the Apes1968
Escape from the Planet of the Apes1971
Conquest of the Planet of the Apes1972
Battle for the Planet of the Apes1973
Planet of the Apes (Remake)2001
Rise of the Planet of the Apes2011
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes2014
War for the Planet of the Apes2017

7. Conclusion

In conclusion, the "Planet of the Apes" franchise consists of a total of eight films, including the original series, the 2001 remake, and the reboot trilogy. Each installment has contributed to the ongoing legacy of this iconic series, showcasing the themes of evolution, society, and morality.

As we reflect on the powerful narratives and cultural significance of these films, we invite you to share your thoughts. What is your favorite "Planet of the Apes" movie? Leave a comment below, and don't forget to share this article with fellow fans!

8. Sources




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