War for the Planet of the Apes achieves its goal of turning Caesar into a mythic figure.
And the movie itself is pretty great too.
The war started by the ape Koba (Toby Kebbell) has fractionized and demoralized both sides.
Although, that does not mean Bad Ape (Steve Zahn) ever has much worth saying.
Eventually they will reach their destinationan outpost deep in the snow that has been transformed into a utilitarian nightmare.
There, the Colonel leads a crazed army in what he views as a Holy War against the apes.
This is not to say that the film will be the last of this franchise.
Despite this high-mindedness,Waris admittedly a step down fromDawn of the Planet of the Apes.
Yet more satisfying are the other throwbacks.
It contrasts nicely with how grim the movie can be at times.
Also at this point, noting the brilliance of the motion-capture performance is fairly perfunctory.
No longer does it appear to be audiences watching an actor utilizing a new technology.
Caesars story is also aided a great deal by the new characters whom audiences will likely warm to.
That this movie makes that the preferable outcome underscores just how subversive the franchise has become.
Ultimately,War for the Planet of the Apesis a beautifully crafted piece of cinema with grand aims.
If this were the final Planet of the Apes movie, it would end on a high note.
War for the Planet of the Apesopens on July 14.
Rating:
4 out of 5
