Planet of the Apes

About Planet of the Apes

The 1968 movie 'Planet of the Apes' is a seminal science fiction film based on the 1963 novel of the same name by Pierre Boulle. The plot follows an astronaut, George Taylor, who lands on a planet inhabited by intelligent apes who dominate a race of primitive humans. The apes regard the human as an inferior species, which presents a satirical role reversal. The movie culminates with the shocking realization that this planet is actually post-apocalyptic Earth.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and produced by Arthur P. Jacobs. The renowned makeup artist John Chambers created startling prosthetic makeup which transformed the cast into convincing apes. The shooting location was primarily in and around Lake Powell, Arizona.

Actors

• Charlton Heston played the iconic role of George Taylor. His performance as the disillusioned and determined astronaut is widely acclaimed.
• Roddy McDowall starred as Cornelius, a chimpanzee archaeologist and historian. He brought an empathetic touch to his role as the ape who befriends Taylor.
• Kim Hunter portrayed Zira, a sympathetic chimpanzee scientist who assists Taylor. Her performance was praised for its nuanced emotionality.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The startling twist ending of the film was conceived by screenwriter Rod Serling, famous for his work on 'The Twilight Zone'.
• The makeup for the apes took approximately four hours to apply to each actor.
• Despite its title, the planet in the film is never actually referred to as 'the Planet of the Apes'.

Awards

‘Planet of the Apes’ was nominated for two Oscars. John Chambers received an honorary Oscar for his groundbreaking makeup work in the film. Jerry Goldsmith also earned a nomination for his avant-garde musical score.

Quotes

• “Take your stinking paws off me, you damn dirty ape!” – George Taylor
• “I can't help thinking that somewhere in the universe there has to be something better than man. Has to be.” - George Taylor

Music, Soundtrack

• Jerry Goldsmith composed the film's striking score, which made heavy use of unconventional instruments and extended techniques.
• The score was nominated for an Academy Award and is often celebrated as one of Goldsmith's finest works.