Set approximately three centuries after the events of War for the Planet of the Apes, the story follows an ape named Noah who is on a mission to save his tribe from the clutches of the ambitious ape dictator, Proximus Caesar. Portrayed with depth and nuance by Owen Teague, Noah embarks on a hero’s journey filled with risk and self-discovery. Although Noah may lack the complexity of his predecessor Caesar, his unwavering determination and relatable vulnerabilities make him a compelling protagonist whose quest for freedom connects deeply with audiences.

Noa’s companions on this dangerous journey are equally captivating. Peter Macon excels as Raka, the intelligent and compassionate orangutan who serves as Noah’s mentor and confidant, and also serves as comic relief in the film. Together, they form a bond that transcends species boundaries, reflecting the film’s central theme of unity and solidarity in the face of oppression. Freya Allen (she plays Ciri in the Netflix series The Witcher) shines as Nova, a mysterious human whose presence sparks both curiosity and conflict among the group. Allen brings a sense of mystery and flexibility to the role, adding layers to the dynamic between human and ape.

At the center of “Kingdom” is the conflict between Noah and Proximus Caesar, portrayed with frightening intensity by Kevin Durand. Caesar’s ruthless ambition and Machiavellian tactics pose a terrifying threat to Noah and his allies, fueling the story with tension and suspense. Durand’s commanding presence and magnetic charisma make Caesar a compelling antagonist, whose descent into darkness serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of unchecked power.

The visual effects of the film are nothing short of breathtaking. The digital apes are rendered with astonishing detail and realism, conveying a range of emotions and expressions that rival those of their human counterparts. From the hair on his body to the sparkle in his eyes, every aspect of his design has been carefully crafted to immerse the audience in the world of the film. With Gyula Pados’s breathtaking cinematography and seamless integration of practical effects, the result is a visual feast that dazzles the senses and transports viewers to a world unlike any other.

Although the film is occasionally troubled by unnecessary callbacks to its predecessors and the inclusion of extraneous characters, these flaws are small compared to its overall strengths. The carefully crafted world and compelling story make Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes a worthy addition to the franchise.

What sets Kingdom apart from its predecessors is its seamless blend of political allegory and pulse-pounding action. Josh Friedman’s screenplay deftly explores themes of power, oppression and resistance, drawing parallels to contemporary issues and social injustice. From the exploitation of marginalized communities to the dangers of totalitarianism, the film offers a thought-provoking commentary on the human condition, inviting viewers to contemplate the world around them long after the credits roll. Yet, Kingdom is not just a vehicle for social commentary – it is also a thrilling adventure filled with thrilling action sequences and breathtaking scenery. Wes Ball’s direction fills every frame with a sense of urgency and momentum, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. From epic battles to daring escapes, the film packs a thrill, showcasing the talent of its cast and crew in bringing the apocalyptic world of the apes to life.

In the end, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is a triumph of storytelling and visual effects, providing audiences with an exciting and intense cinematic experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the franchise or new to the series, this film will definitely leave a lasting impression.