Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

8

MovieManiac83Apr 23, 2015

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is not only a solid dystopian-flavored science fiction film in its own right but it elevates the stock of its immediate predecessor in the Planet of the Apes franchise, Rise of the Planet of the Apes. By addingDawn of the Planet of the Apes is not only a solid dystopian-flavored science fiction film in its own right but it elevates the stock of its immediate predecessor in the Planet of the Apes franchise, Rise of the Planet of the Apes. By adding to the ongoing storyline and propelling it forward, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes transforms the rushed ending of the 2011 film into a pause rather than an awkward stopping point. This installment inches events closer to a merge point with 1968's Planet of the Apes while maintaining its own unique identity. It is in every way superior to Rise of the Planet of the Apes.

It's refreshing to see a big-budget summer movie that's more interested in telling a story than cluttering up the screen with explosions and deadening the mind with a lobotomized spectacle. That's not to say Dawn of the Planet of the Apes lacks visual flair. In fact, it features some of the best special effects in any recent motion picture. Not for a moment will anyone doubt that the apes are real. Director Matt Reeves (Cloverfield) keeps the camera mobile but not in a way that's likely to induce motion sickness. He favors long, sweeping shots and occasionally employs atypical points-of-view. This allows Dawn of the Planet of the Apes to boast a fresh look; it doesn't feel like a clone of every other summer tent pole motion picture.

A few words must be written about Andy Serkis' contribution. The unsung actor, who has given life to such memorable characters as Gollum and King Kong, deserves a lion's share of the credit for making Ceasar the most compelling character in Dawn of the Planet of the Apes. Caesar is a remarkable creation - the melding of human acting and computer generated imagery. It's noteworthy that this iteration of the character has emerged from the long shadow cast by Roddy McDowell, who played Caesar in two of the early 1970s Planet of the Apes movies (Conquest and Battle). One can argue whether Serkis is deserving of a Best Actor nomination for his work here but his overall importance to genre films since the turn of the century is undeniable and some kind of special Oscar is unquestionably deserved.

People don't make their first appearance in Dawn of the Planet of the Apes until 15 minutes have elapsed. The film's early scenes focus on establishing the ape characters and their society. In addition to Caesar, key simian players include Maurice the orangutan; Caesar's grown son, Blue Eyes; and the embittered Koba. The humans are represented by Malcolm and his compatriots: Ellie (Keri Russell), Alexander (Kodi Smit-McPhee), and Carver (Kirk Acevedo). The filmmakers cannily give each human a scene designed to provide depth and breadth to an initially one-dimensional character. With Oldman's Dreyfus, for example, there's a poignant moment in which his computer returns to life for the first time since the apocalypse and he's able to view photographs of his dead family.

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes contains action - there is a lengthy battle sequence that absorbs about 20% of the running time - but this is more about world building and storytelling than it is about mixing adrenaline and testosterone cocktails. Especially during the first hour, the movie takes its time. It doesn't rush headlong into the central conflict. This chapter ends on a satisfying (if downbeat) note that promises another sequel. Perhaps most importantly, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes becomes the first Planet of the Apes movie made in the last 45 years to merit mention alongside the original in terms of storytelling aptitude and big screen prowess.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

8

PeterAlexanderJun 10, 2015

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is a vast improvement on the first instalment. The film, whilst being a visual treat and much an epic blockbuster, is extremely meaningful and engages the audience on a personal level. The audience is constantlyDawn of the Planet of the Apes is a vast improvement on the first instalment. The film, whilst being a visual treat and much an epic blockbuster, is extremely meaningful and engages the audience on a personal level. The audience is constantly forced to chose who to side with, the desperate yet perhaps cruel human beings, or the content yet highly threatened apes. What ensues is an amazing story of morals and the relationship between man and ape. The film is exciting from start to finish, beginning in stunning fashion, and ending in a conclusion of epic proportion.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

8

CineAutoctonoJan 27, 2017

"Dawn of the Planet of the Apes" sequel to the prequel to "The Planet of the Apes" was very good, in moments of drama, and action, new characters, between apes and humans, the usual "ape" characters , The plot was spectacular, the"Dawn of the Planet of the Apes" sequel to the prequel to "The Planet of the Apes" was very good, in moments of drama, and action, new characters, between apes and humans, the usual "ape" characters , The plot was spectacular, the post-apocalyptic scenario was great, the story very good, and the performances and special effects were very good.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

All this user's reviews

8

kyle20ellisApr 29, 2022

As someone who really enjoyed Rise of the Planet of the Apes, expectations were high for Dawn of the Planet of the Apes. And apart from a rushed ending and the underdeveloped human characters Dawn of the Planet of the Apes didn't disappointAs someone who really enjoyed Rise of the Planet of the Apes, expectations were high for Dawn of the Planet of the Apes. And apart from a rushed ending and the underdeveloped human characters Dawn of the Planet of the Apes didn't disappoint and is just as good. It looks amazing for starters, the cinematography and lighting are of great beauty and atmosphere and the scenery is equally striking. But the visual highlight, and most likely the best thing about the film, are the special effects for the apes, that they look so real and that it's hard to believe they were done by computer is testament to how good they look. The soundtrack is haunting and rousing with no dirge-like tempos and it doesn't feel overbearing either, even with sound with as much authenticity as here. The script also impresses, it's very intelligently done and has a lot of tension and heart. What impressed even more was how simple and nuanced some of it was, like when the apes speak they only need to say a few words and it still feels like it's saying a lot, a couple of times even a sideways glance brings more impact than you'd think. The story takes a bigger and somewhat bolder approach than Rise of the Planet of the Apes and this is an instance of it working very well, especially with the visceral action sequences which are very tense and look terrific and in the incredibly intense and emotional final act. It's compelling stuff where you feel compassion for and identify with every step of the way with Caesar and his family. Matt Reeves' direction doesn't make the mistake of being overblown or lethargic, there is at least a sense that he knows what he's doing. The acting is solid, Jason Clarke and Keri Russell are charming leads and Gary Oldman while criminally underused still gives a spirited performances. But other than the special effects the other highlight is the characterisation of the apes, which is just superb especially for Caesar(who is by far and way the most relatable and most compelling character in the entire film), Andy Serkis never fails to amaze me. All in all a really well done blockbuster, although the human characters do not register anywhere near as well as the special effects and the apes characterisations. 8/10 Bethany Cox… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

8

DanBurritoSep 13, 2015

A very interesting movie though it's also slightly depressing. Then again, this is a planet of the apes movie. The first of these ended with a lecture on how we'll destroy the planet. So being depressing isn't exactly a surprise. But anyway,A very interesting movie though it's also slightly depressing. Then again, this is a planet of the apes movie. The first of these ended with a lecture on how we'll destroy the planet. So being depressing isn't exactly a surprise. But anyway, let's talk about the apes. Caesar was the best character because he had the most depth. Krona was also a good villain because he was really complex. Gary Oldman's character was interesting too. He obviously has a tragic past, and there's one scene where you feel sorry for him but at the same time, he's prepared to destroy the apes even when one of his own people tries to tell him that they aren't truly evil. It's a very good movie, one of the best of 2014.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

All this user's reviews

8

MovieMasterEddyApr 7, 2016

‘Dawn of the Planet of the Apes’ Continues the Saga.

A quick montage at the beginning of “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” fills us in on what has happened since “Rise of the Planet of the Apes.” Three years have gone by for us in the‘Dawn of the Planet of the Apes’ Continues the Saga.

A quick montage at the beginning of “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” fills us in on what has happened since “Rise of the Planet of the Apes.” Three years have gone by for us in the audience, and about a decade for the assorted primates on the screen. James Franco and millions of other people are dead, victims of a lethal virus and the usual apocalypse-causing disease of hubris. After a period of violence and chaos, the survivors have cobbled together a reasonably stable society in the ruins of San Francisco, with Gary Oldman in charge.

But this is not “Dusk of the Planet of the Humans.” The spectacle of yet another desperate population, huddled together in the wake of catastrophe to await the next zombie, alien, robot or monster attack, would be unlikely to inspire much excitement. The real interest lies across the battered Golden Gate Bridge, in Marin County, where our evolutionary cousins, under the benevolent guidance of an upright-walking chimpanzee named Caesar, have built their own civilization. In contrast to the bedraggled human colony, the ape encampment is a thriving city-state with distinctive wooden architecture, domesticated horses, a sophisticated (mostly signed) language and an educational system overseen by Maurice, the gentle, copper-furred orangutan who gave the first movie an extra fillip of soul.

The sylvan, simian Athens in the Muir Woods is a remarkable achievement and an important part of what makes “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,” directed by Matt Reeves from a script by Rick Jaffa, Amanda Silver and Mark Bomback, the best of this summer’s large-scale, big-studio franchise movies. Granted, this isn’t a very high bar to clear: “better than ‘Transformers 4’ ” barely counts as praise, even with an exclamation mark. But unlike that toy-smashing extravaganza — and unlike 2014’s visitations from the “Spider-Man,” “X-Men” and “Godzilla” money trains — “Dawn” is more than a bunch of occasionally thrilling action sequences, emotional gut punches and throwaway jokes arranged in predictable sequence. It is technically impressive and viscerally exciting, for sure, but it also gives you a lot to think, and even to care, about.

Starting with the apes themselves. In the final credits, Andy Serkis receives top billing for his performance as Caesar, a role that continues to redefine screen acting in the digital age. His facial expressions and body language are so evocatively and precisely rendered that it is impossible to say where his art ends and the exquisite artifice of Weta Digital, the special-effects company, begins. The same is true of the other main ape performers: Karin Konoval (Maurice); Nick Thurston (Caesar’s son Blue Eyes); Judy Greer (Caesar’s wife, Cornelia); and especially Toby Kebbell as Koba, Caesar’s lieutenant and eventual nemesis.

Koba, a survivor of scientific experiments, bears the physical and moral scars of human cruelty. When the apes encounter a scouting party from the city (led by Jason Clarke and Keri Russell), Koba is quick to sound the alarm. The humans, about to run out of fuel, want to restore an abandoned hydroelectric station in ape territory, and they ask Caesar for help. Koba warns that people are a violent, duplicitous, predatory species that should be fought if it can’t be avoided.

Caesar, who saw the generous, tender side of humanity when he was hanging out with Mr. Franco and Freida Pinto, is willing to give our kind the benefit of the doubt. There is plenty of evidence — both in the movie and beyond it — to support Koba’s view, but the film comes down squarely, and maybe a little too squishily, on the side of tolerance and cooperation. The ape and human societies are parallel primitive patriarchies (women nurture and worry, while men lead and fight, a disappointing but hardly surprising failure of imagination on the filmmakers’ part), and they are threatened by symmetrical schisms. As Koba opposes Caesar, so does Malcolm (Mr. Clarke’s character) find himself increasingly at odds with Dreyfus (Mr. Oldman), who sees the apes as a mortal threat to be confronted with maximum brutality.

And while “Rise” found room for exuberance in the shadow of catastrophe — partly because it seemed so justifiably excited by its own ingenuity — “Dawn,” its title notwithstanding, paints a darker, scarier picture of the future. It also has a grave, brooding beauty, intensified by Michael Giacchino’s wild and subtle score and by the deep, verdant shadows of Michael Seresin’s cinematography. Mr. Reeves has a fine sense of visual detail and also of the eloquence of nonverbal exchanges between characters, digitally enhanced and otherwise. (Ms. Russell and Kodi Smit-McPhee, as her adolescent son, do especially graceful work in limited roles.) The film is full of small, memorable moments and crowded with distinctive personalities on both sides of the ape-human divide.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

All this user's reviews

8

BeatrixKiddoSep 18, 2019

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. That was pretty cool, maybe Andy Serkis's best acting so far. I liked this movie more than other two.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

All this user's reviews

8

benskylerhillJun 8, 2018

Serving as a sequel that improves upon its predecessor, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes adds resonant depth to the complex political tragedy to the narrative of a long-living franchise. It's a gorgeous-looking movie and nearly everything aboutServing as a sequel that improves upon its predecessor, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes adds resonant depth to the complex political tragedy to the narrative of a long-living franchise. It's a gorgeous-looking movie and nearly everything about it works.

It takes a while for the story to really get going, just as it was with Rise of the Planet of the Apes, the previous film. But once the action starts, the cinematography really starts to shine. The action sequences are some of the best I've seen in a long time. The vibrant colors bring out incredible detail and the camera follows everything perfectly. Once again, Andy Serkis is magnificent as Caesar. Really, all of the motion capture imagery is just beyond stunning. There's so much behind the facial expressions and mannerisms of the apes: brotherhood, pain, etc. It's incredible how much emotion is evoked in the actors' performances when they hardly even speak!

The script does a wonderful job at developing the apes as characters, but Dawn suffers from the same problem that Rise had: clichéd and underdeveloped human characters. Gary Oldman makes the most of his smaller supporting role, but the rest of the human characters behave in ways that are quite illogical that make it difficult to really care about them or understand them. Some of the human characters don't even do enough to justify their large presence in the film.

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes mostly overcomes what flaws it has with an intelligent story, engaging political drama, and beautiful, smooth direction. It improves upon its predecessor in every way and enriches the drama of an enduring saga.

Story: 8
Acting: 8.5
Script: 7.5
Visuals/Sound: 10
Entertainment Value: 8.5

OVERALL SCORE: 8.5/10… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

All this user's reviews

8

FloroOct 17, 2021

It has a very predictable plot and focuses on the humans way too much than it needs to. But this movie redeems some of its flaws with its spectacular performances and characters, with top-notch special effects as icing on the cake.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

8

tare1575Dec 18, 2021

번역없이 이해되고, 여러번봐도 질리지 않는 영화!!
A film that can be understood without translation and never get tired of watching many times!!

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

All this user's reviews

7

jeremypJul 13, 2014

It's a better movie than the first sequel, and the CGI is pretty flawless, but in the end it's
Just another "humans screw up again" movie, with an added "noble savage"
theme tacked on. I think the critics like it because it's superior toIt's a better movie than the first sequel, and the CGI is pretty flawless, but in the end it's
Just another "humans screw up again" movie, with an added "noble savage"
theme tacked on. I think the critics like it because it's superior to most summer sci-fi crap. Andy Serkis is the best part of the movie, and he better get a nomination for it. His skill is in his facial expressions being so subtle, necessitated by having such little dialog.… Expand

7 of 13 users found this helpful76

All this user's reviews

7

JacobApr 16, 2017

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes presents a morally complex story. The conflict between the apes and the humans isn’t black and white with heroes and villains on both sides, factions that each have clear motivations, and a difficult conflictDawn of the Planet of the Apes presents a morally complex story. The conflict between the apes and the humans isn’t black and white with heroes and villains on both sides, factions that each have clear motivations, and a difficult conflict for which there is no easy solution. It is brought to life by some well-realized characters some of which are brought to life through some incredible motion capture work. The phenomenal execution makes it easy to overlook the familiarity of the story especially considering that this is a way better version of Battle for the Planet of the Apes.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

7

TVJerryJul 15, 2014

This sequel picks up a few years after the simian virus has devastated most of the human population. A group of genetically evolved apes leads a peaceful existence until a band of human survivors appears. This film spends more time in the apeThis sequel picks up a few years after the simian virus has devastated most of the human population. A group of genetically evolved apes leads a peaceful existence until a band of human survivors appears. This film spends more time in the ape world than it does with humans, which, considering the technology, makes it a mostly-animated film. Although there are a few moments of action, it's primarily a political drama. All that being said, they've managed to craft a compelling story and create a pretty convincing world. The storytelling can get a bit heavy handed and predictable, but it's still an effective adventure.… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

All this user's reviews

7

BikerjamesJul 16, 2014

I really hated the first film in this new series. "Dawn" is a major improvement. This is a movie you go to see for the visuals, not the storyline. For the most part, the apes look real. There are some moments when they don't quite moveI really hated the first film in this new series. "Dawn" is a major improvement. This is a movie you go to see for the visuals, not the storyline. For the most part, the apes look real. There are some moments when they don't quite move like a living creature would move, but overall a really good job. The storyline is similar to the old Charleton Heston film, nothing new there. The acting is pretty mediocre, but it's probably difficult to act when the ape your talking to doesn't exist in real life. I did find it annoying when the apes spoke. They usually spoke very slowly, but when the word came out it was perfect English, so not sure why they couldn't speak faster. I know people love Gary Oldman but to me his performance was way over-the-top. Overall there were more things to like than dislike so I recommend it.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

All this user's reviews

7

adhamhanyAug 5, 2014

It's good, but not as monumental as many are claiming it to be.

It has an engaging plot that reasonably paves the way for another installment in the franchise, but it's not very original. It has familiar themes of survival and belonging.It's good, but not as monumental as many are claiming it to be.

It has an engaging plot that reasonably paves the way for another installment in the franchise, but it's not very original. It has familiar themes of survival and belonging. The action and battle scenes are very well executed, albeit with predictable outcomes. The script and dialogue are not bad, but could've been better. The acting is good, although not compelling enough to have any emotional resonance.

The absence of these elements doesn't make it a bad movie, just not amazing as i expected it to be; especially after all the high reviews.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

All this user's reviews

7

SpykeAug 20, 2014

Impressive visually, but I wasn't gripped until about half-way through the film as I found myself quite bored - which the downside I found. It takes a while to start-up but once it did I was gripping my seat.

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

All this user's reviews

7

grandpajoe6191Aug 27, 2015

"Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes", despite the crude cliches and ex-machinas filling in for the film's overly exaggerated plot, is still a reasonably good summer blockbuster to enjoy thanks to some excellent performances from Andy Serkis and"Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes", despite the crude cliches and ex-machinas filling in for the film's overly exaggerated plot, is still a reasonably good summer blockbuster to enjoy thanks to some excellent performances from Andy Serkis and Gary Oldman.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

7

MikefromAngusJul 18, 2014

Im rating this movie, a 6.5 but I will round it off to a 7. Overall this is a good movie. Its not your typical action movie, where there is no emotion. The story is good, but.. its boring. it sets the set pieces in whos bad and whos good.Im rating this movie, a 6.5 but I will round it off to a 7. Overall this is a good movie. Its not your typical action movie, where there is no emotion. The story is good, but.. its boring. it sets the set pieces in whos bad and whos good. There are no surprised, the story seems very generic.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

All this user's reviews

7

quincytheodoreJul 11, 2014

Although the plot is predictable, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes combines great visual effect and refined motion-capture acting into an emotional spectacle. Much of the novel factor of Planet of the Ape franchise is how believably humane theAlthough the plot is predictable, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes combines great visual effect and refined motion-capture acting into an emotional spectacle. Much of the novel factor of Planet of the Ape franchise is how believably humane the apes can be, it's also a measure bar as comparing the movies of this franchise in order serves as prove of technology advancement. Andy Serkis has perfected a masterful interpretation of the ape-human mime hybrid. It's not an overstatement that the apes fare better and more convincing than the human counterpart.

Visual is splendid and aesthetically pleasing. It's not as extravagant as other blockbusters in recent time, but the art direction offers a unique appeal. Different than most grayish dire post-apocalypse setting, the movie turns to a more organic setting, a lustful return-to-nature background while some of civilization remains still stand tattered. Glossy urban areas have now coated with rustic flavor while the apes territory is leaning towards early civilization settlement. One is deteriorating while the other contrastingly and gradually improves.

The movie has one of the best uses of motion capture lately. Apes moves with fluid almost humanized motion even though some of the hunchback traits still persist. It's interesting to see such varied range of emotion that can be conveyed by the apes' while most of them only communicate with body language. Action sequences are well done; a couple of scenes are shot in very interesting point of view or continuous shot. It's a little heavier on action than the prequel.

However, the humans aren't nearly as intriguing. Jason Clarke as Malcolm, the engineer and leader figure does a decent job, but he's eclipsed by Andy Serkis' Caesar. He's not really an engaging lead role as James Franco was, and it's a bit underwhelming when the movie tries to compare the two together. Gary Oldman as Dreyfus works with what he has. Being a man with practically a thousand faces, he can pull off any role, but here his character is rather unexceptional.

The plot is a bit overused though; those who have seen Dances with Wolves, Pocahontas or Avatar will find little surprise. Granted, there's only so much this "two civilizations" premise could go and the movie does go for more mature outlook, but a lot of the scenes foreshadow any twist the movie could've had, even more so for those knowledgeable of the franchise. In the end Dawn of the Planet of the Apes does any movie strive to, it immerses the audience and makes them invest in the character's struggle. With the pace it's going the apes are here to stay.… Expand

7 of 11 users found this helpful74

All this user's reviews

7

StrategosLCJul 15, 2014

The movie was decent. The special effects were very good, but I couldn't help but feel set back by some of the writing and distinct plot holes. The story needed reworking. Much of it felt like it had been adapted to get its PG-13 rating,The movie was decent. The special effects were very good, but I couldn't help but feel set back by some of the writing and distinct plot holes. The story needed reworking. Much of it felt like it had been adapted to get its PG-13 rating, dumbing down what could actually be in the movie. For example, none of the main characters ever died! For a movie that was begging for some dramatic deaths, I felt terribly betrayed. The story was also very, very cliche. The whole thing was an overt rip of Julius Caesar and the ape leader was even called "Caesar." The overall plot seemed something akin to a Disney movie. Replace all the characters with singing animals and take out 90% of the violence and it would be. The acting was okay; I never felt deeply enthralled in it nor disappointed by lack of authenticity. Maybe I'm being overly critical. It was a good movie. However, I wish the story would have been a little less cookie-cutter.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

All this user's reviews

7

Trev29Jan 11, 2015

This marks another really solid entry into this revamped franchise. Visually it is amazing, and there is actually some depth to it. It will be interesting to see where the next one will pick up.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

7

GreatMartinJul 11, 2014

Comes February, 2015, an ape may win the Best Actor Oscar as Andy Serkis gets first billing as Caesar deservedly if nothing else but for the acting he does with his eye. Very close behind him is Toby Kebbell as Koba, another ape. None of theComes February, 2015, an ape may win the Best Actor Oscar as Andy Serkis gets first billing as Caesar deservedly if nothing else but for the acting he does with his eye. Very close behind him is Toby Kebbell as Koba, another ape. None of the actors playing humans such as Jason Clarke, Gary Oldman, Keri Russell and Kodi Smit-McPhee stand a chance when they are on screen with the aforementioned apes or the other ape actors like Judy Greer, Karim Konoval and Nick Thurston.

First and foremost I must emphasize that “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” must be seen on the BIG movie screen just as “Gravity” had to be seen in a movie theatre to really be appreciated.

The only other ‘Ape” movie I have seen was the very first in 1968 and just the production values from makeup to costumes to special effects since then is a show in itself. It is beyond my comprehension how visual effects supervisors Joe Letteri and Dan Lemmon achieved what they do in this movie.

The direction gets the strong hand that it needs from Matt Reeves. The script writers Mark Bomback, Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver follow the trend and true westerns of the past with bad guys and apes versus good guys and apes, including a high noon shoot out and a major draw dropping fight out between the hero and villain--no, not who you think!

The bottom line is that “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” has to be seen in a movie house on the large or it will be just another meaningless movie. Get ready for an ape to win the major acting prizes!… Expand

4 of 11 users found this helpful47

All this user's reviews

7

Fluid_DynamicsJul 12, 2014

You'll be thinking the entire movie that some of the characters should be saying:

"Damn! I'm soo thirsty!! Especially since, not one of us have had any food or water for an entire week, and a few of us have lost a lot of blood. Am IYou'll be thinking the entire movie that some of the characters should be saying:

"Damn! I'm soo thirsty!!
Especially since, not one of us have had any food or water for an entire week, and a few of us have lost a lot of blood. Am I right? You're thirsty too right?"

Very enjoyable movie, although we thought Edge of Tomorrow was surprisingly even better. That movie will have a long tail.… Expand

5 of 11 users found this helpful56

All this user's reviews

7

CalvinCrackAug 13, 2014

as a spectacle, Apes succeeds. As a torch carrier of the "smart, out-of-control-animal sci-fi" genre, it's a snoozefest. It wants to be more than "the lost world" with chimps though...it wants to be downright shakesperian, and at times ITas a spectacle, Apes succeeds. As a torch carrier of the "smart, out-of-control-animal sci-fi" genre, it's a snoozefest. It wants to be more than "the lost world" with chimps though...it wants to be downright shakesperian, and at times IT IS. But the overall plodding pace leaves you in the middle ground between mildly entertained and seen-it-all-before. The amount of cliches packed into this film should have given the filmmakers pause and cued some more creativity as to how you film certain "necessary" scenes (SPOILERS: like when the fool brings a shotgun to the lakeside chimp retreat. Okay, a SHOTGUN?! A gun at all is ridiculous, but it pushes the story forward. a little pistol, i could imagine hiding. BUT A SHOTGUN? hidden by a little blue blanket in your wide open tool chest? get out of here with that). instead of playing with genre, which can result in great films we all buy on blu-ray, "Apes" feels like an attempt AT genre. and if you don't nail a straight up genre attempt, the movie can easily become camp, or worse...boring. But then again, when your fore bearer is the Planet of the Apes franchise, "Avoiding Camp" might have been this film's working title. And in that regard it is a success on par with its predecessor.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

All this user's reviews

7

LeZeeJul 12, 2014

The third movie in rebooted 'The Planet of the Ape' series and the
eighth movie in the franchise. After the excellent 2001 movie, it took
a decade for a sequel. Long wait really looked worth and that success led to another quick sequel. IThe third movie in rebooted 'The Planet of the Ape' series and the
eighth movie in the franchise. After the excellent 2001 movie, it took
a decade for a sequel. Long wait really looked worth and that success
led to another quick sequel. I saw the night show before it makes debut
in the next day. The crowd was in average number, but I did not bother
for that and prepared to enjoy the show. Yes, I had a good time, but
not a hundred percent satisfied. So I am going to tell what I liked and
not.

This story commence after 10 years from the previous movie 'Rise'. It
is now post apocalypse and no one rules the world. The apes are living
in a group peacefully in the wild. One day they encounter half a dozen
of human survivors who are working out to put back the human dominance.
The humans and apes do not want a war, but some people inside thirst
for it because of the past suffers. Like the tagline, it is one last
chance for peace. Does it work or not is what the movie tries to
disclose.

Have you seen the DisneyNature's 'Project Nim'? It is like what if
something terrible happened to that project and Nim becomes a leader to
his kind. Here it was Caeser who leads his race towards a fresh and
civilized life. A leader must listen his followers and act according to
the circumstances. In this story it reveals apes are not far behind in
term of vengeance, betrayal and not believing in cooperation to build a
better tomorrow together. It is all about the two different race wanted
to dominate. This movie leaves a little clue before it conclude that
next movie could be 'War of the Planet of the Apes'. I am already
saying that will be a massive hit if it offers more action and
especially to watch in digital 3D would be a treat for sure. Praying
for it to hit the screen within the next two years of time.

One thing I don't understand is that so far three movies were made in
this series, but every time when the sequels are made the story leaps
too much forward. Don't get confused, what I am saying was between
these three movies the story won't follow exactly where the before one
ended. It commences very much ahead where we have to wonder what might
have happened in between the gaps. Yeah, they explain those in a
commentary mode in the opening, but I always felt that was not enough.
Though, few things make sense, like, somewhere somewhat it reveals the
connection between them all.

Last time, I thought the characters from the first movie going to meet
and it did not happen. So in this movie as well thought all of them
come together and again the answer was no. Like I earlier said it leaps
a long way without proper explanation. Every time new set of actors
hops in like a reboot movie. It is not bad, but the story was just okay
in this sequel, I mean not a genuinely written screenplay so I think
that is why the popular names were missing in the cast. That is, they
rejected the offer, I guess. When the press asked about that to the
producer in an interview, he said the previous characters are all dead
and the story moved on. But the real question is are you convinced by that? If you remember the first movie well like how it ended, somewhere Mark Wahlberg is going to come back in a future installment. That is what I have been expecting all the time. You know, this installment was largely ruled by animated ape characters. I can't say it was perfect, but almost. Those animated characters were in large numbers, I know the hard work behind, but still not convinced completely. Sometimes it looked made up of rubber and plastic than an organic body. World cinema is yet to give the best in that field. The master of motion capture performer, Andy Serkis had been brilliant like always. When there is a demand for character like this, he will be found in the front row. His skills really made those characters to display in a best way possible. So he was one of the highlights in the movie. When it came to the digital 3D, it was below par. Reason might be, it was a more dramatized story than filled with lots of actions and thrillers. Except in a couple of portion, the opening and the end scenes. In my experience this movie is not worth watching it in digital 3D. Since it was made as one you shall not say no to it because that is the future of the cinema and you should take part in the road it travelling. This movie was just good, not an awesome one like critics praising. The critics had a reason to do that, because they want 'Age of Extinction' fall behind so they are lifting this movie. For me, This movie was so simple, definitely not for who is looking for high octane stunt sequences and the story with twists. Entertainment is there and had great surround effects. I loved the first movie, the 2001 version and then the follow-up looked kind of afresh. So my rating kept falling movie after a movie in this series. Not in a large margin, but only by the fractions. Overall, one of the good movie that came in this mansoon.… Expand

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

All this user's reviews

7

GinaKJul 13, 2014

If you are looking for an action picture that is not totally mindless, this movie is a good choice. It’s a little too long and generates more cloying sentimentality than genuine emotion. Still it has enough action in a sturdy enough plot toIf you are looking for an action picture that is not totally mindless, this movie is a good choice. It’s a little too long and generates more cloying sentimentality than genuine emotion. Still it has enough action in a sturdy enough plot to keep the audience quiet. This was the first time CGI really annoyed me (has it reached its limits?) since the swarming apes, always shot from above, looked like swarming ants with identical ape decals pasted over them. On the other hand, digital makeup has improved enormously, or Andy Serkis is simply a genius at acting under these conditions. In the end, I couldn’t decide if the pessimistic philosophy that war is inevitable and neither humans nor movie apes will improve (exemplified by the selfish “apes” who must go out for popcorn refills in the middle of a movie in a packed theater) or whether this philosophy was just a cynical excuse for another sequel.… Expand

9 of 14 users found this helpful95

All this user's reviews

7

AGarcia732Jul 15, 2014

Score: 7.5

"There is no dawn without darkness." Or was it, "the night is always darkest before the dawn"? Oh well. My point is...what was my point again? Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is a good movie. It has received "UniversalScore: 7.5

"There is no dawn without darkness." Or was it, "the night is always darkest before the dawn"? Oh well. My point is...what was my point again?

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is a good movie. It has received "Universal acclaim" from Metacritic users. I don't like to be negative--especially with such a highly-praised movie--but I do have a few complaints. One, the humans. I think all the humans should've had a bit more development. One person I have specifically in mind when I say that is Dreyfus (played by Gary Oldman), leader of the remaining human survivors--who are somehow immune to the virus. (Exactly how are they immune?) Anyway, he had much less screen time than he deserved. The only real insight into his history is a picture on an iPad screen. The rest of the humans don't mention much about their history and past, except for snippets we learn in conversations. Two--the collapse of humanity is not really shown. I get that apocalypses and utopian/dystopian worlds have been done MANY times in all kinds of media--books, movies, TV, etc. But I would've liked to see more of what was left of the human world. On the plus side, a growing ape civilization IS shown. That's definitely unique and original. Three, we don't see much of what happens 10 or so years after the virus spreads. Well, we know--but we don't see much except for a quick montage. I would've liked to see more. The transition from the first film to this sequel is a bit too quick. And, four, I honestly would've liked to have seen some of the cast from the first film in the sequel (especially Dr. Will Rodman played by James Franco). All of these four suggestions could have easily been done through flashbacks throughout the film. But, I don't want anyone to mistake my suggestions for criticism. Because after many disappointments this year, I'd say this is definitely not one of them.

The movie accomplishes what many films probably couldn't. Like making you be drawn to the apes, a species who are still developing and learning. (They're still getting the hang of talking. But when the apes do talk, it mesmerizes you.) This film manages to make you pray that not one bullet is fired by the apes or humans. Because one bullet could set aflame the tension, animosity, and suspense between the two species and could lead to war. But it seems war is inevitable, and someone is bound to screw up and ruin the fragile peace between the apes and humans. The film has superb CGI, as pointed out by many.

The film is good...but I feel "Rise" was better. I don't know why. Despite all that "Dawn" has going for it (those four small suggestions weren't really an issue), I didn't connect on a certain level with Dawn. I feel like Metacritic user "jyeager11". I quote his review, "Could the addition of writer and Executive Producer Mark Bomback have negatively impacted the end product that much? I'm not sure. I wasn't there. And it's not like 'Dawn' is a *bad* movie. There's a lot about it I enjoyed (...) there's nothing technically wrong with this movie (... ) But there's nothing there that makes me likely to purchase a physical DVD copy anytime soon."

So, I liked Dawn of the Planet of the Apes. But I think certain things should've been expanded on a bit. Overall, it's a good film missing a FEW things IN MY OPINION. This sequel leaves me anxiously waiting for the next film in this series. (Maybe the apes are more evolved, talk fluently, and begin to emerge as Earth's dominant species?)

If you liked this review, read my other ones on movies, TV shows, and videogames. I have reviewed the 2014 films Transformers: Age of Extinction, Edge of Tomorrow, X-Men Days of Future Past, Godzilla, Blended, The Amazing Spider-Man 2, Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit, The Lego Movie, and more. I am actually still trying to find time for other film reviews, such as Robocop, Non-Stop, Divergent, Need for Speed, The Monuments Men, etc. I also review TV shows, such as Fox's "Sleepy Hollow", ABC's "Marvel's Agents of SHIELD", CW's "The 100", Fox's "I Wanna Marry Harry", NBC's "Crisis", Fox's "Gang Related" and more.

Good bye! Sincerely, AG732.… Expand

2 of 6 users found this helpful24

All this user's reviews

7

jppl1999Aug 10, 2014

In an alternative way of life for humans, inside a movie that is entertaining and neat, the Ape's society show the deficiencies of human kind and the consequences they include.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

All this user's reviews

7

oDjentoJan 4, 2015

I don't think i found this movie as great as most people did. Andy Serkis is amazing as usual at his Mo-Cap and plays Ceasar flawlessly. The visual effects are also amazing! However the film feels a bit over long and the story is good,I don't think i found this movie as great as most people did. Andy Serkis is amazing as usual at his Mo-Cap and plays Ceasar flawlessly. The visual effects are also amazing! However the film feels a bit over long and the story is good, however it is predictable. The human roles are played well but not that amazingly. The symbolism is pretty obvious but good and cinematography is pretty decent. However nothing seems really atand outish other than Serkis.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

7

AkashVijayJan 19, 2015

Dawn of the Planet of the apes explores the similarities and differences between apes and humans and of their perceptions of the world and their dissimilar ideas of family. Although it does succeed overall, it needlessly suffers from a coupleDawn of the Planet of the apes explores the similarities and differences between apes and humans and of their perceptions of the world and their dissimilar ideas of family. Although it does succeed overall, it needlessly suffers from a couple of cringe-worthy moments and cliched sub-plots. There are a few unnecessary characters which could have easily been cut out from the entire movie in order to have a more compact narrative.
But I have to compliment the audacity shown by director Matt Reeves. He feels no shame or discomfort in telling a story with talking apes riding horses. He has put his heart and soul into the picture (as has everyone) and you have to admire that attitude. He's not crafted just an entertaining blockbuster, but rather a very intimate and intelligent film, clearly inspired by Shakespeare's Henry V, that manages to touch on deep fears, traumas, fantasies and hopes. It's flawed but it works.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

7

tvhandyAug 22, 2014

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes puts great emphasis on the importance of the choices we make as individuals and how the selfish acts of the few, can be horrific for everyone.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

All this user's reviews

7

FlickcriticJul 26, 2014

The Dawn of the Planet of the Apes was an entertaining movie although the first Rise of the Planet of the Apes was better this movie did follow the plot line and continue the story of the Apes and Human sharing planet earth. At times theThe Dawn of the Planet of the Apes was an entertaining movie although the first Rise of the Planet of the Apes was better this movie did follow the plot line and continue the story of the Apes and Human sharing planet earth. At times the movie did drag on slightly but overall it was entertaining and the visual effects and costume work was excellent. If your a fan of the series both old and new this movie will not disappoint.… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

All this user's reviews

7

BrettBGowenDec 27, 2014

I just recently watched this movie without any pre-made judgements or expectations, because I did not know what kind of reviews/ratings it had gotten. And I was pleasantly surprised.

I felt somewhat neutral towards the first movie of thisI just recently watched this movie without any pre-made judgements or expectations, because I did not know what kind of reviews/ratings it had gotten. And I was pleasantly surprised.

I felt somewhat neutral towards the first movie of this reboot of the "Apes" franchise, but I did enjoy it. And this second movie blew the first one out of the water.

At first, I thought the focus on mainly the apes was kind of stupid, but as the film progressed, I became attached to these computer-generated beings on screen. The acting of the human characters, as well as the acting of the people used to make the CGI apes was superb and realistic. For real, Andy Serkis could win an Oscar for his performance as Caesar.

I was full invested in Caesar and Koba's stories. If a film can make me care that much about computer-generated monkeys, it's done its job well. The action kept moving along and kept me lured in. You fully understand each character, human and ape, and their motivations for their actions.

Although I thoroughly enjoy action films, this is not the type of movie that I would purchase after seeing for the fist time. But if this is your type of film, buy it on Blu-Ray. The CGI is absolutely stunning.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

7

EpicLadySpongeJan 10, 2016

As the second of the rebooted trilogy comes, it's only a matter of time before it loses that one score from the first movie of the rebooted trilogy. As war comes, the Planet of the Apes trilogy will remain strong.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

7

SrPepeNov 18, 2017

Una buena película con personajes llenos de vida. Cada uno tiene una personalidad bien construida y aportan mucho a la historia. Hay partes lentas, no se si la vería de nuevo.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

7

amheretojudgeJan 16, 2018

came out of a laboratory..

Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes

Matt creates this wiped-out world filled with dreadful characters that comes with their own baggage and of course an addition to an important chapter on Andy Serkis; this is a big bang.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

7

akshatmahajanOct 16, 2020

I am big fan of Rise of the Planet of the Apes, it was with some anticipation that I awaited this latest instalment. Maybe I had my expectations too high, or maybe the film is just missing that something special, movie was not upto the mark.I am big fan of Rise of the Planet of the Apes, it was with some anticipation that I awaited this latest instalment. Maybe I had my expectations too high, or maybe the film is just missing that something special, movie was not upto the mark. The acting was okay except Ceaser's (whose acting was great). The plot was good but little bit stretched. The pacing was also problem but not a big one.

Overall, you will enjoy the movie but it has some limitations.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

7

MrPajamasNov 1, 2020

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes builds on the previous part and more or less repeats everything previous. Excellent effects with excellent action and the story is nice, but not as good as in the previous part. If you liked the previous part,Dawn of the Planet of the Apes builds on the previous part and more or less repeats everything previous. Excellent effects with excellent action and the story is nice, but not as good as in the previous part. If you liked the previous part, you will probably like this one as well. This film goes for sure and it's just a quality action film that I recommend.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

6

TyranianJun 9, 2019

Pretty good sequel with excellent visuals and good music though the human characters are boring.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

6

csw12Oct 31, 2014

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is carried by one man (or ape) of the name Andy Serkis with a few decent tense scenes that grab your attention. Other than that, I simply didn't find the film interesting with a slow pace and an ending thatDawn of the Planet of the Apes is carried by one man (or ape) of the name Andy Serkis with a few decent tense scenes that grab your attention. Other than that, I simply didn't find the film interesting with a slow pace and an ending that needed some help.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

All this user's reviews

6

ivan_terribleAug 9, 2014

I was expecting a good storyline, but it's not. Maybe I belonged to old generation because i found this movie a bit boring, not enough tensions and not enough character developments. I think probably this movie was targeting young genders. II was expecting a good storyline, but it's not. Maybe I belonged to old generation because i found this movie a bit boring, not enough tensions and not enough character developments. I think probably this movie was targeting young genders. I still like the prequel better than this.… Expand

3 of 7 users found this helpful34

All this user's reviews

6

gracjanskiMar 13, 2020

Another action Planet of the Apes movie, that means low story, boring characters and movie for the mainstream with a lot of logic mistakes. The Characters are so one sided, and behave so dumb, that it was even ridiculous. Only the beginningAnother action Planet of the Apes movie, that means low story, boring characters and movie for the mainstream with a lot of logic mistakes. The Characters are so one sided, and behave so dumb, that it was even ridiculous. Only the beginning is very interesting, but the 2nd half is so disappointing, that I was asking myself, when does it end?… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

6

TheApplegnomeJan 11, 2015

This sequel is less impressive than its predecessor. There’s much events that can be predictable, much slow action sequences and the characters are mostly terrible.

The main issue I have with this movie is that there’s no clear mainThis sequel is less impressive than its predecessor. There’s much events that can be predictable, much slow action sequences and the characters are mostly terrible.

The main issue I have with this movie is that there’s no clear main character, the movie kept changing focus, and I guess that’s the point but it feels stupid. There’s also too much focus on the apes and too little on the humans, it’s understandable but I want more focus on the humans. More on the characters: there’s no chemistry between them and it feels dumb and awful. Another flaw is that I could predict almost every main plot detail in the movie, much more than in Rise of The Planet of The Apes. I also expected a greater soundtrack from Michael Giacchino, who gave us the awesome soundtrack in “Star Trek” (2009) and the TV-show “Fringe”. The action is just as the soundtrack: less impressive and less unique. The movie does in fact have some great moments, it do raise even more ethical questions than the previous movie. It also does a great job when it comes to illustrate what no knowledge results into. The movie is also emotional powerful, and the CGI is spectacular. It’s much clearer and detailed than in the previous movie. Not flawless though.

The opening scene is exiting and the first act is totally superior over the second and the third. They are predictable, slow and less entertaining. The ending however, could have played out much better. The previous movie was much about science; this however got a more basic tone about survival and coexistence. It’s too boring for my taste.

Dawn of The Planet of The Apes gets a 6.8/10.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

All this user's reviews

6

AMovieBuffJul 12, 2014

"War of the Apes" (Modern v/s Primitive)!!!

Good for: 1. Awesome graphics and simulation! 2. The apes convey emotions superbly! Especially Caesar! 3. Comparatively it's a relief-movie after the recent Transformers! Still okay: 1. I"War of the Apes" (Modern v/s Primitive)!!!

Good for:
1. Awesome graphics and simulation!
2. The apes convey emotions superbly! Especially Caesar!
3. Comparatively it's a relief-movie after the recent Transformers!

Still okay:
1. I kinda fell asleep in between since it was a little draggy and I yearned for more dialogues. It was 90 minutes of sign-language, subtitles, action and other sound effects. 40 minutes of actual verbal talk amongst the parties!
2. I felt that the trailer was so intense but it eventually misled the audience a bit. The movie should have been named "War of the Apes" instead. The war action between the apes and humans was lesser than that compared to the war that raged amongst the apes themselves!… Expand

2 of 8 users found this helpful26

All this user's reviews

6

jyeager11Jul 12, 2014

Saw it last night...

I loved 'Rise' but despite its great reviews, I left 'Dawn' feeling a little hollow. While this movie is set in the same world as 'Rise', I personally did not see much of that movie in this one. So I looked up theSaw it last night...

I loved 'Rise' but despite its great reviews, I left 'Dawn' feeling a little hollow.

While this movie is set in the same world as 'Rise', I personally did not see much of that movie in this one. So I looked up the credits, and to my surprise, noticed the writing and production are being handled by the same people in both movies... with the exception of Mark Bomback, who has been added as both writer and producer.

The most prestigious names in Mark Bomback's writing resume are Live Free Or Die Hard (2007), and the Total Recall (2012) reboot. As for his producing resume, I'll spare you (it's worse).

6 different production companies were involved with 'Rise'. Only one – Chernin Entertainment – is listed for 'Dawn'. While one would expect the latter to tell a more focused and enjoyable film, it's actually 'Rise' that felt more fleshed-out and cohesive. That first movie was an unexpected hit. It pleasantly surprised everyone by being a cut above the generic fare that Hollywood has been giving us since the 90's ended. The writing, the directing, the photography... it felt like a lot of very talented people got together and really, really tried for that one. I did not get the same sense here.

Could the addition of writer and Executive Producer Mark Bomback have negatively impacted the end product that much? I'm not sure. I wasn't there. And it's not like 'Dawn' is a *bad* movie. There's a lot about it I enjoyed (beginning with Caesar's facial expressions) but as with movies like Maleficent, Oblivion, Noah, Immortals, 300 Rise of an Empire, etc. there's nothing technically wrong with this movie. I enjoyed them all on different levels. But there's nothing there I'm likely to purchase a physical copy of anytime soon.

It seems Hollywood never intended to launch a new Apes trilogy. They had a wonderful idea to create a prequel, and it worked. We could have very easily transitioned from 'Rise' to either of Heston's or Wahlberg's Planet Of The Apes movies. But it became a commercial hit, so we have to squeeze 2 new chapters in there before the Apes truly take over.

That's how this felt. Milk this cow dry for another 2 chapters, and then what? We'll have caught up to the timeline where the Apes rule the world. Will they leave well enough alone? Of course not. They'll probably film an entirely new trilogy set in that world, effectively rebooting the entire thing.

Though I wouldn't call 'Dawn' a bad movie, I fear we are currently witnessing the Transformers-ification of the Planet Of The Apes franchise. So enjoy this one while you can, because something tells me these will become increasingly soulless with every chapter.

Just like a certain other franchise.… Expand

7 of 15 users found this helpful78

All this user's reviews

6

jwarkDec 7, 2014

On the verge of being a cash grab. It was pretty uninspired compared to it's predecessors. I feel like I'm over rating it giving it a 6. It's only because I'm such a huge fan of the story that I gave it a 6. I really hope this downward trendOn the verge of being a cash grab. It was pretty uninspired compared to it's predecessors. I feel like I'm over rating it giving it a 6. It's only because I'm such a huge fan of the story that I gave it a 6. I really hope this downward trend in quality doesn't continue.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

All this user's reviews

6

FilipeNetoAug 22, 2018

"Planet of the Apes: Revolt" is the promised sequel to "Rise of the Planet of the Apes", both of which are based on Pierre Boulle's dystopic book. Now humans are a minority, a race facing extinction (what an irony!) that apes seem to be able"Planet of the Apes: Revolt" is the promised sequel to "Rise of the Planet of the Apes", both of which are based on Pierre Boulle's dystopic book. Now humans are a minority, a race facing extinction (what an irony!) that apes seem to be able to seriously threaten. The contact between them reminded me of the difficult and dangerous understanding between different communities when distrust prevails. We can imagine something similar in moments of our past, like the first contact between European navigators and indigenous peoples of the Americas, for example. Distrust, fear, displays of power to intimidation... the film shows these in a very interesting way, with the apes being very similar to us, in behavior and way of think. Unfortunately, the whole film is quite pretentious and full of self-importance: both sides have an exaggerated awareness of the relevance of events to their own community. This is the most boring point of the movie. The actors do a good job, but non-human characters get more interest and dominate the scene. Technically, the film doesn't deserve major criticism. CGI is more cautious than in the first movie and seems more real. Sequences of combat and action are breathtaking, certainly pleasing to those who seek action and adventure.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

All this user's reviews

5

DQ_SlotkinsJul 22, 2014

The effects and the motion capture work was spectacular. The plot was so old and tired that I saw it coming after 7 minutes — the whole damn plot. It's as if they created the look of the movie and had no energy to make the story so theyThe effects and the motion capture work was spectacular. The plot was so old and tired that I saw it coming after 7 minutes — the whole damn plot. It's as if they created the look of the movie and had no energy to make the story so they borrowed a plot from an old Johnny Weissmuller Tarzan movie. What a let down.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

All this user's reviews

5

OhTheDerpJul 29, 2014

This is, without a doubt, one of the most boring movies I've seen all year. The action was incredibly short-lived when it actually occurred. I was hoping for an action movie, not a drama.

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

All this user's reviews

5

dave89791Jul 12, 2014

I found the apes kind of laughable.

I mean, honestly, just let the apes speak like they're not children - there's no way all sorts of apes could be so proficient in sign language and simultaneously can talk - I'd find it more believable ifI found the apes kind of laughable.

I mean, honestly, just let the apes speak like they're not children - there's no way all sorts of apes could be so proficient in sign language and simultaneously can talk - I'd find it more believable if they all just spoke.

The story was a bit too simplistic and hard to believe - how could some tiny crew of people get a major power plant to work?

Why would one guy be so careless about his gun?

I think I went into this with too high a set of expectations from the reviews here - as sci-fi flicks this summer go, I found Edge of Tomorrow far superior… Expand

4 of 16 users found this helpful412

All this user's reviews

5

mrniceAug 10, 2014

It aims for spectacular action and set pieces, and achieves that to a large extent. But I didn't find the story as interesting as in 'Rise...' because now the main developments have played out in the earlier film (where it was superIt aims for spectacular action and set pieces, and achieves that to a large extent. But I didn't find the story as interesting as in 'Rise...' because now the main developments have played out in the earlier film (where it was super interesting to see how apes could plausibly become super-intelligent and escape captivity), and the story left to 'Dawn...' is how things escalate from there. Which is pretty easy to imagine. Some humans and some intelligent apes have a conflict and it escalates. No matter how much action and drama you push along with such a story, it's limited in its potential. I had fun interpreting it as a metaphor for the Iraq oil invasion though. Although an insane interpretation, it fitted so well for the first half of the movie. And if seen as propaganda against Islam, the movie gets the subtext it otherwise lacks.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

All this user's reviews

5

WestenderJul 12, 2014

the visuals were unreal, but the musical score was oppressive and ludicrous - it didn't even pause for the entire duration of the movie in a lame attempt to keep tension up and tell you how you are supposed to be feeling during every singlethe visuals were unreal, but the musical score was oppressive and ludicrous - it didn't even pause for the entire duration of the movie in a lame attempt to keep tension up and tell you how you are supposed to be feeling during every single scene. it took away from the movie big time for me.… Expand

3 of 10 users found this helpful37

All this user's reviews

5

silversun101Aug 2, 2014

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is the equivalent of a holding pattern. A film who's seemingly only purpose is to set up the events for the inevitable third film. The first in what I guess will now be a trilogy, Rise of the Planet of the Apes,Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is the equivalent of a holding pattern. A film who's seemingly only purpose is to set up the events for the inevitable third film. The first in what I guess will now be a trilogy, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, was a perfectly contained movie, showing us how the world of Planet of the Apes came to be while giving sly nods to the original film. At the end of Rise, the story is concluded and nothing more needed to be said. And indeed, nothing more is said with Dawn. While the depictions of the Ape society are fun (and indeed the best part of the movie) the "drama" between the apes and humans that this film hangs on is flat, overwrought, and hopelessly predictable. All this film does is draw out what we, as an audience, could infer happened from the closing credits of it predecessor without bringing anything new or interesting to the table (aside form monkeys with machine guns). While an entertaining distraction and a true achievement in the field of special effects, I left the theater with the distinct notion that nothing substantial or satisfying had actually HAPPENED in the film.

A movie that didn't need to be, it poses no convincing argument for its own existence.… Expand

3 of 8 users found this helpful35

All this user's reviews

5

kenenjJul 16, 2014

If you're a guy, you're sure to like this. If not, think twice. It's very violent, and loud. First the premise; that most of the humans are wiped out by a worldwide flu that apes are immune to. Second, that in the next 10 years that apesIf you're a guy, you're sure to like this. If not, think twice. It's very violent, and loud. First the premise; that most of the humans are wiped out by a worldwide flu that apes are immune to. Second, that in the next 10 years that apes learn to speak, but don't do so because, well, they're apes? Then the humans and apes find each other and all heck ensues. One ape in particular, is not inclined to make peace and wants war with the humans...... It gets really loud. I ended up with a headache, a backache, and a stomach ache from watching this. All I have to say is, my husband loved it.… Expand

2 of 6 users found this helpful24

All this user's reviews

5

adamjonesJul 29, 2014

Come on guys this one is not good.. It did keep my attention though, so for that (and because I'm in a really good mood today) I'll say an even 5 out of 10.

-a

3 of 8 users found this helpful35

All this user's reviews

5

mcfryOct 16, 2015

I can live with a few plot holes, as long as I am rewarded with something intriguing. But in this case, the unintelligent story design was too much for me. Everything just happens because the script says so, no matter whether it's plausible.I can live with a few plot holes, as long as I am rewarded with something intriguing. But in this case, the unintelligent story design was too much for me. Everything just happens because the script says so, no matter whether it's plausible. Mostly because of that, my impression was overall worse than the one I took from the predecessor - which got some gaping abysses, too, but not AS many. The larger the scope ...

And the cliches: it feels like a lost opportunity, to see the apes mimic humans to such an extend they even copy cliche characters and moments! The apes are more convincing when they are not like humans. Ultimately, this would be a far better fictional documentary, than it is a movie.

To be fair, the narration has several intriguing moments, and the presentation is mostly worthwhile. Dialog is not to be reckoned with, but in this case I'd say, less dialog means less **** Also, I liked sign language and the speech without human melody. There are these, and a lot more well executed ideas. The thing has potential. I just wish the script had seen some harsh review before shooting anything.

As it stands, I am afraid to say that this is still in B-movie leage. I can't imagine people will take this movie seriously in a few years from now. My expectations for the continuation of the saga are very limited after this.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

5

bradchengApr 28, 2015

It’s been four years since “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” director Matt Reeves last cinematic outing, “Let Me In” — an English-language remake of Swedish director Tomas Alfredson’s vampiric coming-of-age film. While there will always beIt’s been four years since “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” director Matt Reeves last cinematic outing, “Let Me In” — an English-language remake of Swedish director Tomas Alfredson’s vampiric coming-of-age film. While there will always be film aficionados who insist the original take of a film presents its truest form, I felt Reeves’ reboot wrought a more kinetic, more universal telling of the tale and that Reeves had created an instant classic of the horror genre. My respect for “Let Me In” was immense.
Unfortunately the material he’s been given to work with isn’t of the same quality as Alfredson’s wholly original horror concept or enough of a pure action-fest like “Cloverfield” to let one overlook the general mundanity of “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes'” story. How possibly mundane can a planet of talking apes be? Aside from the fact that these simians have now been performing their grunt-speak to audiences for over fifty years (Maurice Evans’ buttery, upper-class mannerisms notwithstanding — what planet was he from?), that novelty remains fairly fresh.

But it’s “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes'” screenplay that comes across as flimsy as Linda Harrison-as-Nova’s” deliciously hung rags. If one were to take away the apes as players (which would be a waste as they are miraculously rendered CGI creations), stripped of tooth and fang, “Apes” would be left with an all-too-human and all-too-cliched story.

The film revolves around the “stop the madness” efforts of a good-hearted human survivor of the simian-virus apocalypse and the now imperially seated Ceasar of 2012’s “Rise of the Planet of the Apes.” These two suffer fools, villains and rebellious children as they toil haplessly to bring peace to opposite ends of an inter-species battlefield. The CGI action is exciting, but the behind-the-scenes powerplays of their shared struggle — however novel on the Darwin spectrum — feels too familiarly packaged.

The screenplay, credited to Mark Bomback, Rick Jaffa and Amanda Sliver, makes the writers sound less like science fiction visionaries than a preachy team behind a Vietnam-era anti-war film. There’s a decidedly “retro” feel to the futuristic war film, with the camouflage-clad ghosts of Audie Murphy and Dennis Hopper lingering somewhere just out of sight.

The story trudges along dredging up far too many plot points from Shakespearean-aspired royal dramas; I’d recite the litany of cliches but I don’t want to spoiler-ize anyone’s fun. Gary Olman, who once shone in the sun as a lean, English mad dog, now seems comfortably settled into playing roles of the flustered heavy (and I still think he applies the same touch to his American accent.) He’s ostensibly the leader of one of the last tribes of humans, but his nervous fidgeting makes it difficult to believe he would be put in charge of much more than a AA meeting.

The cast of largely unknown actors doesn’t help either. Though capable, they never bring any real fire to the screen, although lead Jason Clarke works tirelessly at his angst. Unfortunately, the human cast is frequently emotionally upstaged by computer-generated apes, that in itself a scary accomplishment which may, indeed, portend the fall of mankind. Or at least the Actor Guild of America. On the other hand, I never know exactly what praise to lavish on human-marionette, actor Andy Serkis. Certainly dancing around in leotards glued with styrofoam balls for the roving eye of a computer to map can’t be easy, but the question is how deep does one’s Stanislavsky have to run?

But the film’s real problem is its script, and its by-the-numbers roll call of devices. Without the apes, I imagine the plethora of well-intentioned, but tired war movie cliches would have “Apes” garnering far less praise than it is receiving. And those hokey-ending lines gravely spoken by the defeated peace-makers … Where have I heard them before? “I thought we had a chance,” says Clarke. “So did I, my friend…so did I,” intones the moribund chimp. It’s almost a pity that all the battling that has come before falls into a pile with those oh-so heavy lines, which ring as outdated as a throw-away bit of hippy schtick from “Easy Rider.”

Of course, the action fans may not notice these overwrought grarnishes, as they have been rewarded earlier to a fiery finale of two foes battling it out, swinging on an exploding skyscraper, as the inevitable flames lick at their feet, er, paws. While “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” will certainly please the action crowd with the most technologically advanced simian set pieces yet, it’s ultimately a pretty routine and not terribly clever affair. Invoking the film’s catchphrase, “Ape not kill Ape,” I would proffer, “Ape not make Sequel.” Though I’m sure “the heavies” will triumph again, man.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

All this user's reviews

5

Th3GreenHorne7Jul 4, 2015

I don't know why I had hated this movie, but I remember seeing this one night, and also remember walking out half way through the movie because it was just too confusing to bear. Although the film had it's perks with amazing CGI and a greatI don't know why I had hated this movie, but I remember seeing this one night, and also remember walking out half way through the movie because it was just too confusing to bear. Although the film had it's perks with amazing CGI and a great cast of actors and actresses. Which is one thing I never really understood, I mean it never really explained what happened to James Franco who raised Caesar in Rise of the Planet of the Apes, but the scientist in this played by Jason Clarke was bearable to watch. Overall, i'm like 40/60 with this movie.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

4

RedfordstoJul 26, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. There were many compelling aspects to this movie. The interactions between the characters, their motivations and backgrounds, and the portrayal of apes as its own culture was excellent. The cgi was mostly seamless with some visuals slightly broken because there is evidently nothing real in the scene to as reference. As far as plot, it's as good as a sci-fi plot gets and Dawn of the Planet of the Apes takes the IP seriously. At the same time, much of the execution is contextually flawed. For example, the survival camp in San Francisco simply letting a national guard base and all it weapons sit nearby open to bandits or transient raiding parties until suddenly apes are an threat. That's a poor survival strategy. Another huge problem is the Ape learning curve is unrealistic. Assuming apes can fire weapons is fine. Having them assault a fortified position with those weapons and win is silly. The apes clearly charge an implacement on horseback with their fingers on the triggers. Guns run out of bullets and the apes don't reload. Even though they've never seen a cars controls, they can commandeer a tank. I like the power struggle aspect between the apes. I really liked the ploy of Koba acting playful to fool a couple of morons. But largely the battle and fall of the human was poorly executed. It could have worked well if the apes simply came down from the rooftops or infiltrated from other areas instead of a charge with guns (limitlessly) blazing. Otherwise, the movie was entertaining as a sci-fi diversion, but by no means epic or revolutionary.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

4

imthenoobNov 3, 2018

Visually impressive but the story is too generic and disappointing. The ending was just nonsense and I am disappointed that they wasted a quality villain in Oldman.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

All this user's reviews

4

DemoraseJul 30, 2014

Not a bad movie per se, but at the same time there really is nothing interesting to this story. What's the takeaway, that different species will fight to protect themselves when they feel threatened, and violence is not nice? Because somehowNot a bad movie per se, but at the same time there really is nothing interesting to this story. What's the takeaway, that different species will fight to protect themselves when they feel threatened, and violence is not nice? Because somehow that wasn't obvious??

It may look like a smart movie, but at the end of the day it's really a dumb movie with no idea of what it's trying to convey. And it's boring, which critics seem to automatically confuse for deep and provoking.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

All this user's reviews

4

ContinualAug 7, 2014

I'm sorry if you like this movie because to me the only people who could honestly have thought this sequel was good are the ones that are die hard fans. We've seen the premise of humans being killed off almost to extinction numerous times,I'm sorry if you like this movie because to me the only people who could honestly have thought this sequel was good are the ones that are die hard fans. We've seen the premise of humans being killed off almost to extinction numerous times, something refreshing would have been nice. The plot of this movie would get a C for attempting a mediocre plot. A movie about Apes and humans having conflict and then it's resolved but they still are going to war now (next movie) makes zero sense.....I enjoyed the 1st one but this movie had so many elements that i've seen before it just seemed stale and unoriginal. I left the theater think okay...so they dropped the ball… Expand

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

All this user's reviews

4

ScribeHardJul 11, 2014

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is a film loaded with ideas, and good ones. It has good ideas about themes. It has good ideas about characters. It has good ideas about messages. But those themes and ideas and messages have all been doneDawn of the Planet of the Apes is a film loaded with ideas, and good ones. It has good ideas about themes. It has good ideas about characters. It has good ideas about messages. But those themes and ideas and messages have all been done before, and not only better, but fuller. Once this film sets up its initial framework, it ignores better and fuller and instead relies on its VFX and apes the hollow action films that have come before it.… Expand

11 of 25 users found this helpful1114

All this user's reviews

4

CPD98Jul 27, 2014

Decepcionante secuela de una precuela que me encantó. Los diálogos son muy pobres, el guión es pésimo (si el mono malo ese no estuviera en la peli la propia peli no tendría razón de ser), trama leeenta y aburrida. Típico de Hollywood, teDecepcionante secuela de una precuela que me encantó. Los diálogos son muy pobres, el guión es pésimo (si el mono malo ese no estuviera en la peli la propia peli no tendría razón de ser), trama leeenta y aburrida. Típico de Hollywood, te ponen unos cuantos monos realistas y una ciudad abandonada que da el pego y la gente lo flipa, yo no soy tan estúpido, yo buscaba algo mas inteligente. La precuela fue genial pero esta es una pérdida de tiempo total. Y al final de la película no pasa nada nuevo, no ha avanzado en la historia. Harán otra, pero yo no pagaré por verla ni loco. Rollazo, es lo que tiene confiarse de las buenas críticas...… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

All this user's reviews

4

justbart4uJul 20, 2014

This movie has no IQ. It's almost the worst of the series, very sappy and obnoxious, ripe with stereotypical embarrassments, and horrible mini-plot lines, just plain gawd awful, couldn’t wait to leave the theater.
Anyone who saw the originalThis movie has no IQ. It's almost the worst of the series, very sappy and obnoxious, ripe with stereotypical embarrassments, and horrible mini-plot lines, just plain gawd awful, couldn’t wait to leave the theater.
Anyone who saw the original with Heston to compare how it all began ought to pass this by or else will be retching. Where was the Statue of Liberty? Apparently 3000 miles away and still standing (waiting for the sequel).… Expand

3 of 9 users found this helpful36

All this user's reviews

3

namelessJul 20, 2014

I can't believe the reviews are so high, it doesn't make sense. I feel asleep at one point because it is so slow. Rent if you must see it... the director and scriptwriters haven't done their job. Everything rests on the VFX and simulationI can't believe the reviews are so high, it doesn't make sense. I feel asleep at one point because it is so slow. Rent if you must see it... the director and scriptwriters haven't done their job. Everything rests on the VFX and simulation crew who make this movie watchable for 10 great minutes. Then we go off into cliched character doing predictable things except for the main character who surprizes twice and then you feel manipulated so the movie can go on. The acting is solid except for Felicity who is too recognizable. There is so much they could have done with the story or dialogue. Don't waste your time... see the trailer and then fast forward at home. Sorry to be so harsh but I kept waiting for it to get better and it didn't.… Expand

14 of 52 users found this helpful1438

All this user's reviews

3

IxnatifualJan 19, 2015

If you like one-dimensional characters that predictably propel the plot through its inevitably cliched hoops in embarrassing ways, this movie is for you. Mindless assembly line Hollywood production in its purest form. Also, computer apes withIf you like one-dimensional characters that predictably propel the plot through its inevitably cliched hoops in embarrassing ways, this movie is for you. Mindless assembly line Hollywood production in its purest form. Also, computer apes with faces of permanent emotion. Perhaps they knew that if they looked happy during the making of this film, it would count as a lie and Jason Clark would have to hurt them. Oooook!… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

All this user's reviews

3

Gamer84Jul 14, 2014

Where should I begin.
This movie was atrocious. Writing to me is key to a movie. It goes beyond special effects and which actors are in a movie. You had 3 writers for this movie and the best thing they could do is do a James Cameron, "Where should I begin.
This movie was atrocious. Writing to me is key to a movie. It goes beyond special effects and which actors are in a movie. You had 3 writers for this movie and the best thing they could do is do a James Cameron, " Avatar" movie. That's all it was with the apes as the Navi. Also some scenes look so identical to Avatar and Lord of the Rings.

As for the way they portrayed the apes well I didn't believe them. These people should have watched some nature programs on how apes act towards each other, when they see humans, and what they eat. Everything was so unrealistic especially since they had 10 years to forget about humans. They learned how to write English, speak English and sign language. Really? I can keep going.

I think peoples expectations were too high to really say anything bad about this movie since there has not been anything worth watching all year. I think all the CG this summer rotted there brains to actually make any sense on the story. I will say this though, I think 12 monkeys with Bruce Willis and Brad Pitt serves as a better sequel than this.… Expand

3 of 21 users found this helpful318

All this user's reviews

3

ezayJan 26, 2015

I cannot believe this got so well noted. The movie is a compilation of the genre's cliches: the **** that behaves like an **** because he is an **** I mean come on, shooting the ape, then hiding the shotgun+almost kicking baby ape. This isI cannot believe this got so well noted. The movie is a compilation of the genre's cliches: the **** that behaves like an **** because he is an **** I mean come on, shooting the ape, then hiding the shotgun+almost kicking baby ape. This is poorly written, instead of trying to find a believable story where apes/humans actually try to trust each other but fail, let's just create an **** character that behaves with no logic at all.

I had to stop mid movie because the ropes were too big. It felt like a 1995 movie, where you can tell what's going to happen 20 minutes before it does. Not fun, boring, uncreative. This movie is a shame for its writters.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

All this user's reviews

3

qamasterNov 9, 2014

terribly boring movie. many stupid fights and shooting. plot is primitive. the characters are flat and uninteresting. I could watch this movie only on fast forward

3 of 11 users found this helpful38

All this user's reviews

3

WatchMyShortzOct 28, 2014

How has this film gotten so many good reviews? All of you people in the user reviews giving this film a full 10/10 need to grow and pair of balls and stop recommending this **** As a long-term planet of the apes fan who expected nothing lessHow has this film gotten so many good reviews? All of you people in the user reviews giving this film a full 10/10 need to grow and pair of balls and stop recommending this **** As a long-term planet of the apes fan who expected nothing less than pure awesome from this film considering its source material, I believe this to be one of the worst films this year. I am shocked by the amount of people who outright ignore the piss-poor effort that had been poured into this blatant cash in. How anyone can be so blind and not see all of the incredibly obvious problems with this film baffles me. So, here we go. The writers and director both need a good slap in the face for the ****ty crap that they were bothered to deliver. The dialogue is cringeworthy, both for the apes and the humans. What's more, I remembered none of the characters names (besides Caesar from Rise) after the film, I don't even think they even mentioned half of their names, and all of them have cardboard personalities. Characters do the stupidest things and do 180 personality switches constantly. I sympathised with none of the characters, and you know you're watching crap when you hate every nameless **** the writers came up with in their film. On top of that, it's soooo **** boring. I can only name a handful of films I have actually fallen asleep in and this film is one of them. Sure, the first 15 minutes are pretty engaging and the battle is mildly entertaining but who wants to sit through an hours worth of boring **** to get there. Finally, and this is what pretty much ruins the film for me, the story is **** retarded. I challenge you to sum up the plot of this film briefly without sounding like the biggest **** mongoloid. All of the other Planet of the Apes films have plots that are easy to sum up but you're gonna be sat there talking for a while trying to easily explain what the **** is going on in this film. To simplify my opinion of the story, it has no proper beginning and no proper ending, brings nothing worthwhile to the franchise and sequel baits so **** hard, it pisses me off. So to sum up, the writing is terrible, the characters are completely unlikeable (therefore there is no emotion in this ****fest) and the story is retarded. If you're happy watching poorly-paced, self-indulged dribble then it rarely gets better than this. I gave this a 3/10 because that's the score I'd honestly give this film as opposed to a dishonest outright 0/10. It gets no lower because the special effects were convincing and I love this franchise, but I lost a lot of respect for it because of this film. And soon enough, we'll probably be seeing trailers for 'War of the Planet of the Apes' or whatever they decide to call it, but so help me god if they **** it up like they ****ed up this film...… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

All this user's reviews

3

aztecinkcJul 28, 2014

Nothing could have prepared me for the dazzling special effects and CGI. Unfortunately, nothing could prepare me for the trite story, wooden acting, faux-Shakespearean melodrama, and overly-long set pieces. Apparently, our collective bar forNothing could have prepared me for the dazzling special effects and CGI. Unfortunately, nothing could prepare me for the trite story, wooden acting, faux-Shakespearean melodrama, and overly-long set pieces. Apparently, our collective bar for what passes as truly remarkable has dropped so low that this film could dazzle so many watchers. Not for a second did I buy the anthropomorphizing of the apes. And the vocal track almost made me long for that unbearable Bane v.o. A mess from start to finish, and sure to be a huge hit and produce an endless number of sequels (Transformers anyone?)… Expand

4 of 9 users found this helpful45

All this user's reviews

2

Codemonkey1991Jul 12, 2017

Hands down one of the most painful movies I've ever watched. I'm usually not bothered by a few convenient plot holes, but the stupidity displayed by the people in this movie simply defies belief. If you have two IQ points to rub together thisHands down one of the most painful movies I've ever watched. I'm usually not bothered by a few convenient plot holes, but the stupidity displayed by the people in this movie simply defies belief. If you have two IQ points to rub together this movie will probably just piss you off rather than draw you in.

I don't want to spoil anything so you'll just have to see for yourself, though I don't recommend it.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

All this user's reviews

2

blahhhhJul 16, 2014

If you feel like watching a bunch of people walk around in ape costumes for a few hours, this is the movie for you. Otherwise - like, if you like dialogue, plot and stuff like that - you should watch something else. Such as paint dry on aIf you feel like watching a bunch of people walk around in ape costumes for a few hours, this is the movie for you. Otherwise - like, if you like dialogue, plot and stuff like that - you should watch something else. Such as paint dry on a wall. That would have been a lot more interesting - and a heck of a lot cheaper - than watching this lame excuse for a movie.… Expand

3 of 28 users found this helpful325

All this user's reviews

2

SmartGunJul 21, 2014

Tell me how it ends. After an hour of cheesy dialog, foolish storytelling and uninteresting characters my wife and I left the theater laughing at the waste of our time and money. Understand that there is a climactic battle between men andTell me how it ends. After an hour of cheesy dialog, foolish storytelling and uninteresting characters my wife and I left the theater laughing at the waste of our time and money. Understand that there is a climactic battle between men and apes ---- hopefully a battle of mutual destruction so that they can't make a sequel. Really bad movie.… Expand

5 of 11 users found this helpful56

All this user's reviews

2

franticvikeSep 9, 2014

Saw this a while ago and never bother to look at the reviews. Absolutely astounded to see this so well reviewed. Thought it was punishingly horrible piece of pseudo psychological garbage. You almost couldn't write a more hackneyed scriptSaw this a while ago and never bother to look at the reviews. Absolutely astounded to see this so well reviewed. Thought it was punishingly horrible piece of pseudo psychological garbage. You almost couldn't write a more hackneyed script for this post apocalyptic universe. Oh the apes are like us, they have thoughts and feelings and there are "complex" issues in their society. Oh no, an accident, oh no betrayal, oh yay redemption. Really, this is a terrible movie. The effects etc are decent but don't waste your time or money. Chef, or Most Wanted Man, from what I've seen, are far superior. Heck even Guardians has a more compelling story for my money.… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

All this user's reviews

1

GiuliusJul 21, 2014

I'm puzzled by the positive reviews. The plot is lame, full of holes and predictable - if by that you mean expecting the worst, and getting it - with sophomoric performances and over-the-top fight scenes that no flesh-and-blood creaturesI'm puzzled by the positive reviews. The plot is lame, full of holes and predictable - if by that you mean expecting the worst, and getting it - with sophomoric performances and over-the-top fight scenes that no flesh-and-blood creatures could possibly survive. It's not bad - it's terrible!… Expand

4 of 11 users found this helpful47

All this user's reviews

1

MovieGal2016Jul 19, 2014

After reading the critical reviews, we were expecting a good movie. Not so! Do not waste your money.
The plot is sophomoric and slow. Even for a remake, the plot is predictable. The technologically creating the apes is improving butAfter reading the critical reviews, we were expecting a good movie. Not so! Do not waste your money.
The plot is sophomoric and slow. Even for a remake, the plot is predictable. The technologically creating the apes is improving but they still are quite unbelievable. The action sequences are visually interesting but since the plot is so bad a viewer doesn't care who prevails. Skip this one!… Expand

6 of 21 users found this helpful615

All this user's reviews

1

Rex_richardsJul 21, 2014

OK so it has great fx, almost REALLY great fx, but that's it.

But apart from that, this is a badly written cowboys and indians movie, with apes instead of injuns and some virus survivors instead of a circle of wagons and John Wayne. TheOK so it has great fx, almost REALLY great fx, but that's it.

But apart from that, this is a badly written cowboys and indians movie, with apes instead of injuns and some virus survivors instead of a circle of wagons and John Wayne. The characters are completely predictable and idiotic, it has more holes than gouda cheese and absolutely non of the scope of the original reboot. The whole thing relies on a big fight scene which the hero human could have easily EASILY avoided, as could the super smart apes, but instead the writers just assume that you, me, the audience are dumber than a regular chimp chucking its poop around in your local zoo.

There are so many things to dislike and feel cheated by here, guns with never ending ammo, apes suddenly talking to each other for no reason, horribly obvious ape disfigurements to help you recognize which one is which, an orang utan the size of a bus, completely stupid decisions by humans and the most awful 'stirring speeches' by the human leader that would in reality make you want to shoot yourself not an ape, the list goes on.

I don't understand 'critics'. this is rubbish. I mean, it looks amazing, and at least you can follow the action, it's not full of jumpy cuts, but really... it's a vfx tour de force, but this is in the same intellectual league as transformers dark of the moon or Need for Speed, Amazing Spiderman 2, the bad Godzilla from the 90s, or even the tim burton version of planet of the apes. So either critics follow each other like sheep, or they deserve a cage in the zoo so they can throw poop at each other and not bother us humans.

.

So the first time you see a monkey doing something unexpected it provides a cheap thrill but otherwise... this is about… Expand

6 of 16 users found this helpful610

All this user's reviews

1

JP32Jun 17, 2017

Instead of simply taking the story seriously, the film takes itself seriously. Here is a group of people (Reeves, Serkis, etc.) who "know" that the movie they are making is an important Hollywood milestone. That is never good.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

All this user's reviews

0

SynycomMay 19, 2015

Clearly the apes have won and are marking up this movie. An epically bad script and plot. Next we'll be making the daleks touchy feely with smiley faces full of trite human emotions. The monkeys on PG tips were far more entertaining. Avoid.

2 of 19 users found this helpful217

All this user's reviews

0

DOTPOTASUCKSJul 24, 2014

This movie was terrible. The overwhelming positive reviews are misleading, as this was 2 wasted hours and $27 for two Ultra AVX tickets I will never get back.

8 of 21 users found this helpful813

All this user's reviews

0

AcrofiloJul 29, 2014

All those digital apes with their forced expressions, are just so stupid and unreal that make this film virtually unwatchable. Who directed the art on this crap?

6 of 19 users found this helpful613

All this user's reviews

0

rrrrrrAug 8, 2014

I can't believe the reviews are so high, it doesn't make sense. I feel asleep at one point because it is so slow. Rent if you must see it... the director and scriptwriters haven't done their job. Everything rests on the VFX and simulationI can't believe the reviews are so high, it doesn't make sense. I feel asleep at one point because it is so slow. Rent if you must see it... the director and scriptwriters haven't done their job. Everything rests on the VFX and simulation crew who make this movie watchable for 10 great minutes. Then we go off into cliched character doing predictable things except for the main character…… Expand

6 of 14 users found this helpful68

All this user's reviews

0

ActuallyATreeAug 24, 2014

A spectacularly dull film, noteworthy only for the fact that, despite clocking in at just over two hours, it felt like it had sucked four hours of my life away. The characters are flat, uninteresting and utterly forgettable, the visuals areA spectacularly dull film, noteworthy only for the fact that, despite clocking in at just over two hours, it felt like it had sucked four hours of my life away. The characters are flat, uninteresting and utterly forgettable, the visuals are mediocre at best and the entire film seems to merely be an opportunity to show two apes fighting each other in a construction site. And even that supposedly climatic scene managed to be uninteresting, because there is no reason to care about any of the characters in this movie, and the fight itself is not interesting enough to hold ones attention on its own. Even the film's message of interspecies (or inter-cultural) cooperation and communication falls flat, offering nothing new or interesting on the topic but preferring to fall back on the stock idea of "they're just like us!", something that has been covered dozens of times before by far better film makers than Matt Reeves and co could ever hope to be. A worthless, brain dead bit of cinema.… Expand

5 of 18 users found this helpful513

All this user's reviews

0

fallcreatureAug 28, 2014

The film sucks. Its the same thing over and over again from other planet aps movies. The movie was not thought out well. They just stuck what ever they needed in their and it terrible.

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

All this user's reviews

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

User Reviews