What Order To Watch Planet Of The Apes

So, you're thinking about diving into the wild world of talking apes, human enslavement, and philosophical bananas? Excellent choice! The Planet of the Apes franchise is a classic for a reason. But with so many movies, where do you even begin? Don't worry, we've got you covered.

Release Order: The Classic Adventure

This is how most of us met these intelligent primates. It's the way the story unfolded in theaters, creating that initial sense of shock and awe. It's a bit like experiencing history as it happened (well, fictional ape history!).

Start with Planet of the Apes (1968). Charlton Heston crash-lands on a planet run by apes – a truly iconic moment. Then comes Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970), which gets a little... nuclear. Next up is Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971), a real time-traveling twist!

After that, watch Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972). This one gets surprisingly political. Finally, there's Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973). Think of it as the apes' version of the American Civil War.

Chronological Order: The Ape Timeline

Want to see how it really all went down? Then chronological order is your friend. This approach gives you the entire ape saga in a linear fashion, starting with their rise to power.

Begin with Conquest of the Planet of the Apes. It shows how apes like Caesar started fighting back against human oppression. It's surprisingly heartwarming to see them stand up for themselves! Next, watch Battle for the Planet of the Apes, picking up right where the previous film left off.

Then it's Escape from the Planet of the Apes. These apes go back in time! Now, things get a bit tricky because the time travel creates some paradoxes, so just roll with it.

Finally, go to the original Planet of the Apes and then Beneath the Planet of the Apes. Watching these last really makes you appreciate the full cycle of ape-human conflict.

The Reboot Trilogy: A Modern Take

These films are a more recent reimagining of the story. They offer incredible visuals and explore deeper themes of family, prejudice, and what it means to be human (or ape!).

Start with Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011). This is the origin story of Caesar, a super-intelligent ape. Then watch Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014), where apes and humans struggle for survival. Finally, see War for the Planet of the Apes (2017), a genuinely moving conclusion to Caesar's arc.

The Odd One Out: Tim Burton's Planet of the Apes

Don't forget Tim Burton's Planet of the Apes (2001). Some people love it, some... don't. Think of it as a fun, visually interesting detour. You can slot it in wherever you like, or skip it altogether. It's kind of like a strange, but oddly compelling, dream you might have after watching too many ape movies.

There is also the new Planet of the Apes movie that just came out, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024). It takes place many years after Ceasar.

So, What's the Best Order?

Honestly, there's no wrong way to watch them. Each order offers a different flavor and perspective. If you're new to the franchise, release order is a great starting point. If you love timelines and origins, go chronological. If you want a modern, emotionally powerful experience, dive into the reboot trilogy.

Regardless of the order you choose, get ready for a wild ride! From talking apes to existential questions, the Planet of the Apes is a franchise that will stay with you long after the credits roll.