Review of Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971) by Jeff B — 23 Dec 2015

Of all the Apes flims, this one is only exceeded by the original and Dawn. The main reason this works so well is the relationship the apes from the future have with the humans of the present. There are humorous and engaging moments as both human and ape find commonality.

However, as you know, that's got to come to an end at some point. A whole lot of death and destruction could certainly be avoided if human- and apekind were just a little more kind. Ah, but where would all that dystopia go? But again, as we find in all the Apes movies, it's not really humans or apes that are the problem, but rather a natural tendency to fear and thus preservation via the elimination of the "other.

" The message time and again is that all sentient beings must find respect for all. It is here where we need to be. We see that message in Cornelius and Zira, Caesar and Mr. McDonald. But ultimately it is the power of fear that has the last say, as it does here in Escape.

An enjoyable film, even one lacking the sophistication and artistry brought about by 21st century film technology.