Culture news This saga is a hit at the cinema, don’t miss the origins of the previous trilogy: the film is available on TF1+

Culture news This saga is a hit at the cinema, don’t miss the origins of the previous trilogy: the film is available on TF1+

At the origins of the conflict

“Planet of the Apes: Origins”, released in 2011 under the direction of Rupert Wyatt, is much more than a simple science fiction film. This bold reboot of the famous franchise plunges us into the roots of an ape rebellion that will shake humanity, offering a new perspective on the genesis of primate domination on Earth.

The plot centers around Will Rodman, a scientist played by James Franco, whose research into an experimental treatment for Alzheimer’s disease leads to the birth of Caesar, a chimpanzee with extraordinary intelligence. Raised like his own son, Caesar develops exceptional cognitive abilities thanks to the unexpected effects of the drug.

However, Caesar’s destiny changes when he is forced to live in a primate sanctuary, where he is confronted with the cruelty and injustice inflicted on his peers. This brutal realization awakens in him a burning desire for freedom and revenge, triggering a revolt which will lead to the emergence of a new ape society.

One of the film’s major strengths is its captivating narrative, which keeps us in suspense from start to finish. The special effects, a true technological feat, bring the primates to life with striking realism. Thanks to performance capture, each monkey is endowed with palpable expressiveness and emotion, notably Caesar, brilliantly played by Andy Serkis, whose moving performance makes us feel the full complexity and evolution of his character.

A work deeper than we think

But “Planet of the Apes: Origins” isn’t just a stunning visual spectacle. It addresses deep and universal themes, such as the ethics of animal experimentation, mistreatment, discrimination and the quest for freedom. The film questions our relationship to animality, our responsibility towards other species and the consequences of our actions on the environment.

For example, the scene where Caesar, locked in a cramped cage, observes with sadness the humans who consider him as a simple object of study, is particularly poignant. It highlights the injustice and cruelty suffered by animals used in scientific research.

Likewise, the scene where Caesar, after discovering the intelligence of his peers, teaches them to communicate and organize themselves to free themselves, is a real moment of emotion. It shows the strength of union and the ability of animals to revolt against oppression.
“Planet of the Apes: Origins” received critical acclaim for its intelligent storyline, remarkable acting performances and groundbreaking visual effects. The film was also a huge success at the box office, becoming the starting point of a new trilogy that won over audiences around the world.

“Press” note aggregator:

• Metacritic: 61%
• Rotten Tomatoes: 71%

Ultimately, “Planet of the Apes: Origins” is much more than just entertainment. It is a powerful and moving cinematic work that invites us to reflect on our place in the world and our responsibility towards other living beings. A must-see film for all fans of science fiction and committed cinema.

As a reminder, Planet of the Apes: Origins is available on the TF1+ SVOD platform and the latest opus Planet of the Apes: The New Kingdom is currently in cinemas.