Review of War for the Planet of the Apes (2017) by Frame R — 03 Apr 2018

Screw you, Skull Island, this is what an apes movie should be all about!

WAR FOR THE PLANET OF THE APES.

After two ubearably bad months, it seems like July has a great surprise around every corner. After Spider-Man and before Dunkirk, this sequel comes to prove that consistency is possible when it comes to franchises. After two very solid films which managed to build a rich character and such a complex world improving in quality from the first to the second, the third movie ends this part of the cycle with thunderous revolt. We have come such a long way when it comes to visual effects, that's granted. But this film reinforces this notion that great VFX can work together (not in spite, Transformers!) with development of the narrative and storytelling in order to create something elevated. Plus, it manages to bring in a realistic way these apes to the status of heroes, foes, comic reliefs and family members that we grew to associate with humans. Furthermore, this film accomplishes, along with the other two, something of extraordinary proportions: it makes root for the apes who are against mankind. Reversing our human nature to root against the survival of our own species is something that I don't remember being done such expertly in the last few decades. Some people wonder why the humans aren't the same from film to film. They're missing the point, as the story is told from the point of view of Caeser and his group. Talk about a character arch, combined with a spotless performance by Andy Serkis! Specially with this film, such an atmosphere is created that allows you to be alert at every time, following each camera movement. Despite a riveting cinematography, a well-written script and a respectful editing that barely overcuts, the true champions are the directing and the score, joining forces in a superb way. The film has a thunderous opening and what it promises both in tone and in rhythm is delivered throughout all the runtime. Reeves knows where to place the camera and how to capture emotion from these CGI creations.I also went ballistic just watching his numerous long and tracking shots, relentless zoom ins and well-placed close ups. The action scenes have such an exquisite touch to it, such a finesse and respect for movement and eye movement, that it doesn't disappoint. But the score, oh, the score! Giacchino creates a soundtrack for the ages both recognizable and harmonious, hitting every emotion right and even adding to what's happening onscreen, a rarity. No doubt, the true hero of this film! It's the best since the Oscars and it should be recognized by the Academy at least in that department (Suicide Squad is an Oscar winner, so...). Overall, this is a reboot done right and a sequel done brilliantly. And how often can you say that in Hollywood? Don't spend your money on clunk or mummies, give the apes a chance.