The Gist: A virus created in a lab ends up causing a worldwide pandemic that nearly wipes out the human race. The apes, immune to the virus, have grown in numbers and settled in the forest north of San Francisco. Meanwhile, a group of human survivors have regrouped in the city and need to restart a hydroelectric dam located in the forest. The simian-human encounter won’t go very smoothly.
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is the sequel to 2011’s very successful prequel to the whole Apes’ canon Rise of the Planet of the Apes and it keeps the banner flying high in my opinion.
The script is well developed, the story makes perfect sense within the canon (and on its own), the cast, both human and simian, is spot on, and the visual effects are something to behold.
I really do feel like at some point Andy Serkis should get some kind of real recognition for his amazing work giving life to all these amazing creatures. For instance, there was a time when special Oscars were handed out to artists in the industry, like Judy Garland and Shirley Temple (Juvenile Awards), or Walt Disney (an Honorary Award for Snow White and the Seven Dwarves). After playing Gollum, King Kong, and Caesar, among others, and always making them feel as alive and real as any human character on the screen, he should get a special kind of Oscar.
The Bottom Line: If you like the Apes canon or are into sci-fi, then this movie is a must see. It’s entertaining and well made.
Grade: 8
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