PLANET OF THE APES

2001

One has to accept the fact that a remake (or retelling as director Tim Burton calls it) can never match the excitement of an original, simply because the novelty, or shock -value effect is missing. Nevertheless, this "retelling" comes as close to matching the high quality of the classic sci-fi film of 1968 minus some of the sociological implications, than I certainly could have hoped for. The story parallels, rather than retraces, the first plot and is quite effective. The acting, with one exception is easily as good as the acting in the original. The exception unfortunately, is Mark Wahlberg who doesn't have the power and dignity that Charlton Heston brought to the role of the astronaut. Another minus is the make up of co-star Helena Bonham Carter...too much woman, not enough ape! The special effects in the hands of Tim Burton, serve the story, rather than substitute for it. As expected, the look is dark, gothic, and anatomical, aided greatly by the musical score by Danny Elfman. The first film had an unforgetable ending. This one has two surprises, but neither one has the impact of that memorable scene in the original. An added bonus is Charlton Heston, in the role of the ape-patriarch-father of the villainous Captain Thade. So, if you have them, throw those dreadful "Planet of the Apes" sequels out, and put THIS one up alongside the original. It's worthy of the honor.

4 Stars

NJB

Much like myself, many of you will probably rush out to see this, not because it looks good, but just because you HAVE to see it. The original Charleton Heston film about an astronaut crash landing on a world ruled by primates has been redone with Mark Wahlberg in the lead role and a considerable improvement in makeup. Whereas the original spent more time being thoughtful and addressing social and racial issues, the remake spells them out more clearly for you, but then seems to gloss over them in favor of more action, violence and heroics. Tim Burton had his hands full making this film live up to the original, but he does about as good a job as anyone could have with some nice references and tributes to the original film.

3 Stars

CDF