The Planet of the Apes franchise has been a beloved part of cinematic history since its inception. Inspired by Pierre Boulle’s 1963 novel, “La Planète des singes,” the franchise found its footing with the 1968 film adaptation, “Planet of the Apes.” Over the years, it has evolved, generating sequels, tie-ins, and a dedicated fan base. After the successful trilogy directed by Matt Reeves from 2011 to 2017, the franchise is set to make its return to theaters with “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.” In this article, we will delve into what we know about this upcoming installment, from its release date to the cast and plot details.

Release Date And Production

“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is directed by Wes Ball, known for his work on the “Maze Runner” series. The film is a continuation of the story initiated by Matt Reeves in his Apes trilogy, concluding with “War for the Planet of the Apes” in 2017. The much-anticipated release date is May 24, 2024, marking the first Planet of the Apes film under the 20th Century Studios banner after Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox in 2019. Production officially commenced in October 2022 at Disney Studios Australia, following a teaser that offered a glimpse of the film’s leading character on horseback. Director Wes Ball announced the completion of filming in February 2023, building excitement among fans.

The Enigmatic Cast

The cast of “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is a blend of seasoned actors and rising stars. Owen Teague, known for his roles in “It,” “Bloodline,” and “Black Mirror,” takes on the pivotal role of Cornelius, the chimpanzee son of Caesar, the franchise’s iconic character. While Teague’s character is confirmed, the roles of other cast members remain undisclosed, leaving room for intrigue and speculation. Among the ensemble cast are Freya Allan, Peter Macon, Eka Darville, Kevin Durand, Travis Jeffery, Neil Sandilands, Sara Wiseman, Lydia Peckham, Ras-Samuel Weld A’abzgi, William H. Macy, and Dichen Lachman. With this diverse lineup, viewers can anticipate a compelling mix of live-action performances and motion capture work transforming into CGI apes.

A Glimpse Into The Future

While official details regarding the plot of “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” are scarce, some intriguing elements have been confirmed. According to reports, the story is set many years after the events of “War for the Planet of the Apes.” The world has changed drastically, with various ape societies flourishing, some of which are oblivious to the existence of the legendary Caesar. Humans, on the other hand, have regressed to a primitive state of existence. The narrative promises to explore the dynamics between these ape societies, with one leader attempting to enslave others in pursuit of human technology, while another embarks on a quest for freedom. Amidst this turmoil, a young human woman emerges as a central figure, her motives and plans shrouded in uncertainty. This intriguing setup hints at a complex and multi-layered story that will captivate audiences when the film hits theaters.

Anticipating The Trailer

With filming wrapped up in early 2023, fans are eagerly awaiting the release of the “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” trailer. While it’s possible that a teaser could drop anytime, Disney and 20th Century Studios are likely to commence marketing closer to the release date. An interesting parallel can be drawn with Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” which released a teaser eight months before its May 2023 premiere. Given that “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is scheduled for May 2024, a teaser might be expected in late 2023 or early 2024. As fans patiently await this glimpse into the next chapter of the franchise, the anticipation continues to build.

Conclusion: A New Chapter Unfolds

“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” promises to be a significant addition to the beloved franchise, continuing the legacy established by the previous films. With a talented cast, a mysterious and intriguing plot, and the skilled direction of Wes Ball, fans can look forward to a cinematic experience that combines action, emotion, and thought-provoking themes. As the release date approaches and promotional material begins to surface, the excitement for this highly anticipated film will only intensify. The apes are set to return, and with them, a new chapter in the Planet of the Apes saga unfolds, ready to captivate audiences once more.