Written by Logan J. Fowler and Justin Matchick
Release Date: July 14th, 2017
Starring: Woody Harrelson, Judy Greer, Steve Zahn, Andy Serkis
Director: Matt Reeves (Cloverfield, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes)
Pre-Trailer Thoughts: I haven’t seen the previous films in the Apes franchise due to my own ignorance but it doesn’t mean I want to skip out on them altogether. I’ve heard many good things about them so I will watch them eventually. Doubtful if it’s in time for this new entry. -LJF
Pre-Trailer Thoughts: One of the most surprisingly successful franchise reboots of the past few years have been the Planet of the Apes series, which has given us some of the better summer blockbusters in recent times. Part of the appeal of these films have been the excellent motion-capture performances of Andy Serkis who, through years of experience with the technology, gives these films an emotional core. His continued presence in this series as well as the returning Matt Reeves, director of the previous installment, gives me some high hopes for the third one. – JTM
Rate the Trailer: 4 out of 5. The stakes are set. Harrelson is pissed and draws the line in the sand. What can only be the beginning of epic conclusion is teased at wonderfully in this trailer. -LJF
Rate the Trailer: 4 out of 5. Right from the opening moments of the trailer, complete with it’s visual callback to the ending of the 1968 original film, I was drawn in. The cinematography looks gorgeous and certain shots, especially those of fighting in the lush jungle, are particularly visually striking. The addition of Woody Harrelson as one of the last army leaders still fighting will be a nice counterbalance to the mostly motion-capture performances of the rest of the cast. My only gripe is the final moment of the trailer, where Harrelson delivers the “planet of apes” line, is just a little too on the nose and corny for me. Otherwise, this definitely got me excited. – JTM
Theater, Rent, No Thanks, Undecided? Rent. My viewing of this one is similar to how I will see the others. In time, in the comfort of my own home. -LJF
Theater, Rent, Undecided, No Thanks? Theater. The Apes reboot series has consistently delivered on great action and a more thoughtful story than most other summer action blockbusters. This third installment looks to continue that trend, and I’ll happily see it when it comes out. – JTM
