Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, directed by Wes Ball and written by Josh Friedman, masterfully continues the legacy of its predecessors while adding its own compelling narrative and stunning visual spectacle. (Also read: Srikanth review: Rajkummar Rao bowls you over with his resilience and wit in this inspiring biopic)

Set nearly three centuries after the events of War for the Planet of the Apes, the story follows Noa, an ape on a mission to rescue his clan from the clutches of the aspiring ape tyrant, Proximus Caesar. Portrayed with depth and nuance by Owen Teague, Noa embarks on a hero’s journey fraught with peril and self-discovery. While Noa may lack the complexity of his predecessor, Caesar, his unwavering determination and relatable vulnerabilities make him a compelling protagonist whose quest for freedom resonates deeply with viewers.

Noa’s companions on this perilous journey are equally captivating. Peter Macon delivers a standout performance as Raka, the wise and compassionate orangutan who serves as Noa’s mentor and confidant, and also serves as comic relief in the movie. Together, they form a bond that transcends species boundaries, embodying the film’s central theme of unity and solidarity in the face of oppression. Freya Allan (She plays Ciri in the Netflix series The Witcher) shines as Nova, the enigmatic human whose presence sparks both curiosity and conflict among the group. Allan brings a sense of mystery and resilience to the role, adding layers to the dynamic between human and ape.

At the heart of “Kingdom” lies the conflict between Noa and Proximus Caesar, portrayed with chilling intensity by Kevin Durand. Caesar’s ruthless ambition and Machiavellian tactics pose a formidable threat to Noa and his allies, driving the narrative forward with tension and suspense. Durand’s commanding presence and magnetic charisma make Caesar a compelling antagonist, whose descent into darkness serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of unchecked power.

The film’s visual effects, are nothing short of breathtaking. The digital apes are rendered with astonishing detail and realism, conveying a range of emotions and expressions that rival their human counterparts. From the fur on their bodies to the glint in their eyes, every aspect of their design is meticulously crafted to immerse viewers in the world of the film. Combined with Gyula Pados’s breathtaking cinematography and seamless integration of practical effects, the result is a visual feast that dazzles the senses and transports audiences to a world unlike any other.

While the movie occasionally stumbles with unnecessary callbacks to its predecessors and the inclusion of extraneous characters, these flaws are minor in comparison to its overall strengths. The meticulously crafted world and compelling storytelling make Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes a worthy addition to the franchise.

What sets Kingdom apart from its predecessors is its seamless blend of political allegory and pulse-pounding action. Josh Friedman’s screenplay deftly explores themes of power, oppression, and resistance, drawing parallels to contemporary issues and societal injustices. From the exploitation of marginalized communities to the dangers of authoritarianism, the film offers a thought-provoking commentary on the human condition, inviting audiences to reflect on the world around them long after the credits roll. Yet, the Kingdom is not merely a vehicle for social commentary—it is also a thrilling adventure filled with exhilarating action sequences and breathtaking visuals. Wes Ball’s direction imbues every frame with a sense of urgency and momentum, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. From epic battles to daring escapes, the film delivers adrenaline-fueled excitement in spades, showcasing the talents of its cast and crew in bringing the apocalyptic world of the apes to life.

In conclusion, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is a triumph of storytelling and visual effects, offering audiences a thrilling and immersive cinematic experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the franchise or new to the series, this film is sure to leave a lasting impression.