Key Points:
- The Planet of the Apes reboot trilogy traces the rise of intelligent apes and the fall of human civilization.
- An experimental Alzheimer’s drug kickstarted the apes’ evolution, leading to a deadly pandemic for humans.
- The trilogy explores the complex relationship between apes and humans, led by the ape leader Caesar.
With the release of ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,’ the beloved science fiction movie franchise has once again captivated audiences. The reboot trilogy, which began in 2011 with ‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes,‘ offers a fresh take on the classic story, depicting a world where intelligent apes rule over primitive humans.
How did the apes become intelligent in the reboot trilogy of Rise of the Planet of the Apes?
In the rebooted continuity, the apes’ rise to intelligence and eventual dominance over humanity was triggered by an experimental treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. An ape named Bright Eyes was exposed to the drug ALZ-112, leading to her displaying extraordinary intelligence, which she passed on to her son, Caesar.
However, while the drug initially showed promise for treating Alzheimer’s in humans, it ultimately had a devastating effect. An improved version, ALZ-113, inadvertently caused a deadly virus known as the Simian Flu, which wiped out more than half of the human population. The virus also mutated, rendering humans mute and removing their higher cognitive abilities, paving the way for the apes to rise as the dominant species.
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Caesar’s role in the ape-human conflict
The trilogy revolves around Caesar, an ape messiah who plays a pivotal role in the conflict between apes and humans. Initially raised by the scientist Will Rodman, Caesar leads an uprising of apes against their human oppressors, fueled by the mistreatment they have endured.
Despite his initial animosity towards humans, Caesar’s ultimate goal was not war but coexistence. He sought to establish a peaceful society where apes and humans could live alongside each other, a dream that was constantly challenged by the hatred and violence perpetrated by both sides.
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Throughout the trilogy, Caesar grapples with the legacy of his actions, facing betrayal and tragedy, including the loss of his wife and son. By the end of ‘War for the Planet of the Apes,’ he succeeds in leading his apes to a fertile valley, a promised land where they can finally live in peace, though at the cost of his own life.
