History of the Planet of the Apes Franchise
The origins of the Planet of the Apes box set can be traced back to the 1963 novel "La Planète des Singes" by French author Pierre Boulle. The novel presents a satirical view of humanity, considering what might happen if apes evolved to be the dominant species on Earth. The book's success prompted Hollywood to adapt it, leading to the release of the original film in 1968.
The Original Film Series
The original film series consists of five movies released between 1968 and 1973:
1. Planet of the Apes (1968) - Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner, this film introduced audiences to astronaut George Taylor, who crash-lands on a distant planet where intelligent apes rule over primitive humans. The movie's twist ending, showcasing the ruined Statue of Liberty, became iconic.
2. Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970) - A direct sequel that follows a new astronaut, Brent, as he discovers a hidden underground city of telepathic mutants and confronts the apes' society.
3. Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971) - In this film, two apes, Zira and Cornelius, travel back in time to 20th-century America, where they must grapple with their newfound fame and the implications of their existence.
4. Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972) - Set in a dystopian future, this film depicts the rise of the apes against human oppression, led by Caesar, the son of Zira and Cornelius.
5. Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973) - This film concludes the original series, depicting the aftermath of the uprising and the fragile peace between humans and apes.
The Evolution of the Franchise
While the original films were groundbreaking for their time, the franchise saw a resurgence in the 2000s with a reboot series that reimagined the story for a new generation:
1. Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011) - Directed by Rupert Wyatt, this film focuses on the origins of the intelligence-enhancing drug that leads to the rise of the apes. It introduces Caesar, played by Andy Serkis, who becomes the leader of the ape revolution.
2. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014) - Directed by Matt Reeves, this sequel continues the story of Caesar as he navigates a fragile peace between humans and apes amidst a deadly virus outbreak.
3. War for the Planet of the Apes (2017) - The final installment of the reboot trilogy, also directed by Matt Reeves, depicts Caesar's struggle against a ruthless human military faction while exploring themes of sacrifice and survival.
Contents of the Planet of the Apes Box Set
The Planet of the Apes box set typically includes both the original and reboot series, providing a comprehensive look at the evolution of the franchise.
Original Series Box Set Features
The original series box set often includes:
- All Five Original Films - Each film is presented in high-definition, showcasing the groundbreaking special effects and makeup that defined the series.
- Bonus Features - These may include:
- Audio commentaries from directors and producers
- Behind-the-scenes documentaries
- Deleted scenes and alternate endings
- Vintage featurettes that highlight the cultural impact of the series
Reboot Series Box Set Features
The reboot series box set typically features:
- All Three Reboot Films - Presented in stunning quality with advanced visual effects that bring the story to life.
- Special Features - These may include:
- In-depth interviews with cast and crew
- Making-of documentaries that explore the advancements in CGI and motion capture technology
- Concept art galleries and storyboards
- Insight into the themes and philosophical questions raised by the films
Packaging and Artwork
Many collectors appreciate the packaging of the Planet of the Apes box set. Often designed with striking artwork, the box set may feature:
- Iconic imagery from the films, such as the apes' faces or the ruined world.
- Collectible booklets that provide insights into the making of the films and their legacy.
- Art cards or posters that fans can display.
Cultural Impact of Planet of the Apes
The Planet of the Apes box set is not just a compilation of films; it represents a significant part of cinematic history. The franchise has influenced numerous filmmakers and has been referenced in various forms of media.
Thematic Explorations
The series delves into several important themes, including:
- Evolution and Intelligence - The films ask questions about what it means to be human and the nature of consciousness.
- Societal Structures - The portrayal of ape civilization serves as an allegory for human society, exploring issues of power, oppression, and rebellion.
- Environmental Concerns - The franchise highlights the consequences of humanity's actions on the planet, urging viewers to consider the future of both humans and the environment.
Legacy and Influence
The Planet of the Apes series has left an indelible mark on pop culture. Its influence can be seen in:
- Film and Television - Numerous films and series have drawn inspiration from the themes and aesthetics of the franchise.
- Merchandising - The success of the films has led to a variety of merchandise, from toys to apparel, allowing fans to celebrate their love for the series.
- Critical Acclaim - The original film won an Academy Award for Best Makeup, and the reboot series has garnered praise for its storytelling and visual effects.
Conclusion
The Planet of the Apes box set is a must-have for any film enthusiast or science fiction lover. It encapsulates the evolution of a franchise that has not only entertained but also provoked thought and discussion about our society and our future. With its compelling characters, rich themes, and groundbreaking special effects, the series continues to resonate with audiences today. Whether you’re revisiting the original films or experiencing the reboot for the first time, this box set offers an unparalleled journey into a world where the lines between man and ape blur, leaving us to ponder our place in the universe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What movies are included in the 'Planet of the Apes' box set?
The 'Planet of the Apes' box set typically includes the original 1968 film and its sequels, as well as the recent reboot trilogy: 'Rise of the Planet of the Apes', 'Dawn of the Planet of the Apes', and 'War for the Planet of the Apes'.
Is the 'Planet of the Apes' box set available on Blu-ray?
Yes, the 'Planet of the Apes' box set is available on Blu-ray, often featuring enhanced picture and sound quality, as well as special features and behind-the-scenes content.
Are there any exclusive features in the 'Planet of the Apes' box set?
Many editions of the box set include exclusive features such as director commentaries, deleted scenes, making-of documentaries, and collectible packaging.
Can I find the 'Planet of the Apes' box set on streaming platforms?
While some films from the 'Planet of the Apes' franchise may be available for streaming on platforms like Hulu or HBO Max, the complete box set is typically a physical product you need to purchase.
What is the release date of the latest 'Planet of the Apes' box set?
Release dates can vary, but the latest 'Planet of the Apes' box set was released in 2021, coinciding with the anniversary of the original film.
Is the 'Planet of the Apes' box set suitable for children?
The 'Planet of the Apes' films contain themes of violence and dystopia, so they may not be suitable for younger children. Parental guidance is recommended for viewers under 13.
