Review of War for the Planet of the Apes (2017) by The N — 20 Oct 2017

Solid finale to the Apes trilogy!

The Apes prequel trilogy has been something of a miracle, and I don't throw that word around lightly. Ever since "Rise," there hasn't been a good film based on the source material since the original. It wasn't until 2011 when we received a prequel to the events of the original Planet of the Apes, which didn't sound promising in the slightest. However, not only did we get a solid first film, but we got a second film, "Dawn," that was nothing short of a masterpiece. With expectations set dangerously high for the finale, did "War" succeed in ending the trilogy on a high note? Yes. With strong performances, especially by Andy Serkis as Caesar, who deserves an Oscar for this. Heartbreaking and truly inspirational, he steals every scene. Woody Harrelson also delivers a strong performance as the villain, even though he isn't as developed as "Dawn's" Koba. The performances are great all around. The story is strong as well, with well-written dialogue, and powerful moments littered in every scene, especially towards the intense, action filled ending.

I don't have really any issues with the film besides maybe pacing, towards the middle, the story really suffers and begins to drag. It goes a route I didn't expect, and it begins to slow down. But not for long, it picks back up quickly. And maybe the soundtrack isn't as epic as I would've imagined. And for a War, the war doesn't really happen until the end.

But that's truly insignificant compared to how masterful this movie is and directed. It nails every category! It's one of the best films of the year. If you haven't seen it yet, go buy it on blu-ray right now!

5/5 stars.