Planet of the Apes in Review

I am a huge Planet of the Apes fan. Huge I tell you!! I have been watching the movies ever since I was about 13 and still to this day love the joy and excitement they bring out in me as as they play before the eyes. Not that all the movies were good but for the most part they exhibit either the right amount of cheese or action or thrills or combination of all those things that I can undoubtedly say that I can not wait to watch and review the Planet of the Apes catalogue. 

Originally published in 1963, the French novel was subsequently translated into English, amongst other languages, and then in 1968 was turned into a movie. From there, 4 sequels followed, a short lived TV series, and an animated show. It was a while before we would see more Apes movies but after 26 years a remake finally graced the big screen. Then no more for ten years when the series was officially rebooted with Rise of the Planet of the Apes.

Now I have never read the book or seen the show (live action or animated). So I guess when I say I am a huge fan, I am referring to the big screen adaptions. And when I am referring to those I am really only referring to four of the seven films. But those four films, from what I remember are so good that they make the others passable. They have great stories and great moments and really have stood the test of time.

I look forward to watching (again) and reviewing (for the first time) all seven films over the next week or so. I have never seen the original series in widescreen, and haven't seen the remake since it came out in theatres. The original and first movie I have seen so many times I know the whole thing (almost) by memory. It's a masterful film and one that is hard to forget once seen it. The second and third films play well into the lore of the first one, but then from what I remember the fourth and fifth films are bad and worse, respectively. The remake was ok, fun but nothing special. And then there's the reboot where words can't describe how I feel about that one. 

So now it's time to re-watch the series, with a new and critical eye. In glorious widescreen, the way they were meant to be seen. Maybe I'll change my opinion on some of them. Maybe another viewing will only cement what I believe already. Either way, it should be fun for me and for you and I hope you come along for the ride....