The movie ‘Planet of the Apes‘, released in 1968, is one of the most impactful science fiction films ever made. If you’re interested in exploring similar themes as this classic series, there are several other movies that might pique your curiosity. The film is an adaptation of Pierre Boulle’s satirical novel and marked a significant turning point in the science fiction genre by presenting a future where apes have taken over the Earth. This film starring Charlton Heston led to multiple sequels, each with varying quality, and spawned a wide-ranging franchise that includes books, comics, TV shows, and more.
For quite some time, the Planet of the Apes movie series lay dormant, until Tim Burton’s 2001 reboot came along. However, this new take was met with harsh criticism by critics and didn’t manage to reignite the science fiction series. Luckily, the 2011 reboot, titled Rise of the Planet of the Apes, breathed life back into the series as a prequel, and introduced a fresh perspective in several impressive sequels. The elements that make Planet of the Apes truly remarkable are its thought-provoking themes on human decline, and its insightful commentary on our animalistic nature. Many films have attempted to emulate this captivating spirit.
10. Time Of The Apes (1987)
A Surprising Japanese Copy Of Planet Of The Apes
As a follower, I can share that originally a television series condensed into a full-length film, “Time of the Apes” stands out as one of the boldest imitations of “Planet of the Apes” ever produced. The narrative revolves around a young woman and several children who are cryogenically preserved to dodge an earthquake. They later revive after many years only to discover Earth is governed by apes. Notably, this production was showcased on an episode of “Mystery Science Theater 3000”. Despite its appearance on that program, “Time of the Apes” isn’t entirely devoid of worth.
This production, dating back to the late 1970s, managed to deliver quite a convincing ape makeup given the era and budget constraints. Moreover, the narrative adheres more faithfully to Pierre Boulle’s original concept of a technologically advanced ape society in the future. Compared to other imitations of Planet of the Apes, Time of the Apes stands out as the one truly worth watching.
9. Project Nim (2011)
A Documentary About An Intelligent Chimpanzee
Despite not being a science fiction movie, the documentary “Project Nim” serves as an intriguing counterpart to the “Planet of the Apes” series. This captivating true tale recounts the life of a chimpanzee named Nim, who was part of an experiment aiming to discover if apes could learn human language for communication.
The film offers a blend of factual accounts of Nim’s involvement in various experiments, as well as a dramatic portrayal of his remarkable life. It delves into the cruel treatment chimps endured during medical testing, which may prove too intense for sensitive viewers. It echoes the fictional experiences that Caesar encountered in the movie Rise of the Planet of the Apes.
8. Shakma (1990)
A Silly Animal Attack Movie Starring A Planet Of The Apes Alum
In contrast to the complex science fiction of Planet of the Apes, the 1990s horror movie Shakma is quite different. However, it shares some vague links with the franchise. A group of college students find themselves trapped at their research facility overnight for a night of role-playing games. The twist? They’re accompanied by an angry baboon who seems intent on causing them harm.
Monkeys have often been portrayed as dangerous in movies, which is why the twist in “Planet of the Apes” was so intriguing as it challenged this stereotype. Conversely, “Shakma” adheres to a more conventional animal attack movie format with a monkey villain. Notably, Roddy McDowall, who played Cornelius in the “Planet of the Apes” series, portrays Professor Sorensen in this film.
7. Link (1986)
A Suspenseful Tale About Killer Primates
Many movies have depicted monkeys and apes as antagonists, such as the famous “Planet of the Apes,” but none has been quite as peculiar as the seldom-remembered horror movie titled, “Link“. This film unfolds within the walls of a Victorian mansion, focusing on an anthropologist and his trio of progressively menacing ape companions.
In this film, Terence Stamp and Elisabeth Shue headline the human actors, yet they are matched by Locke, an orangutan who was chosen to portray a chimpanzee. Unlike typical animal-attack films, Link highlights the intelligence of great apes, albeit through their clever and cunning brutality. Taking a leaf from Alfred Hitchcock’s playbook, the movie generates suspense rather than relying on overt violence.
6. Silent Running (1972)
A Classic Early ’70s Sci-Fi Film With A Message
By the late 1960s, the science fiction genre was evolving significantly, and films such as “Planet of the Apes” served as a prime example. In a similar vein, “Silent Running” presents comparable concepts. Set in the future, this movie follows an ecologist’s struggle to protect a greenhouse that is Earth’s last vestige of plant life, as all botanical existence on our planet has been extinguished.
In my view, “Silent Running” is a thrilling and speedy sci-fi journey, yet it carries a profound message about environmental devastation, much like how “Planet of the Apes” cautions about societal self-destruction. This film delves into the concept that unchecked greed could ultimately bring about our demise.
5. The Omega Man (1971)
Planet Of The Apes Wasn’t Charlton Heston’s Only Classic Sci-Fi Film
Shortly following his role in Planet of the Apes, Charlton Heston was chosen for the lead in the post-apocalyptic sci-fi thriller, The Omega Man. This film is adapted from Richard Matheson’s novel, I Am Legend, where Heston portrays a scientist who finds himself as the lone survivor on Earth after a biological warfare disaster wiped out humanity. Yet, he must evade the vampire-like survivors who perceive him as wicked due to his scientific background.
Similar to its origin, “The Omega Man” delves deeply into the intricacies of contemporary society, aiming to satirize racism and other contentious social issues. Yet, much like “Planet of the Apes,” these themes are subtly woven beneath the thrilling fabric of a science-fiction narrative. Consequently, even those uninterested in the underlying message can still find it an entertaining experience.
4. District 9 (2009)
A Modern Science Fiction Hit With Big Ideas
It might appear that District 9 and Planet of the Apes are very dissimilar, but upon closer examination, they share some striking similarities. In District 9, we find an alternate world where alien refugees face discrimination, while a man from their oppressors’ organization chooses to spearhead a rebellion. This situation bears a strong resemblance to the treatment of humans in Planet of the Apes, as both narratives contain powerful and not-so-subtle commentary on societal issues.
Exploring themes like prejudice, detention, and institutionalized brutality, District 9 unfolds in South Africa, a nation with a troubled past regarding these issues. While it doesn’t possess the lightheartedness of the initial Planet of the Apes series, District 9 serves as a compelling counterpart to the contemporary reboots.
3. Mighty Joe Young (1998)
A Remake Of A Classic King Kong Ripoff
Originally, “Mighty Joe Young” bore some resemblance to “King Kong,” but the 1998 Disney remake introduced several alterations. The narrative revolves around a primatologist trying to rescue a colossal gorilla, whose mother was slain by cruel poachers, from their retribution.
In an ironic twist, “Planet of the Apes” portrays apes as intelligent beings capable of great evil, much like humans. Conversely, “Mighty Joe Young” emphasizes the animalistic traits inherent in primates and sets it against the animalistic tendencies observed in certain human characters. Despite being one of Disney’s less remarkable live-action productions, the special effects are awe-inspiring, and the film stands out as a unique instance where primates serve to inspire rather than terrify.
2. Congo (1995)
A Silly Sci-Fi/Adventure Flick From The ’90s
Movies such as “Planet of the Apes” don’t always have to be thought-provoking or profound, and films like “Congo” can simply provide an enjoyable time. Set deep within the dense jungles of the Congo, the story follows a rescue team on a mission to locate a missing diamond-excavating expedition. During their quest, they are pursued by menacing apes who pose a grave threat to their survival.
The movie “Congo” isn’t a cinematic masterpiece by any means, but it offers enjoyable practical effects and provides an engaging twist to the animal attack genre. It shares similarities with “Planet of the Apes” as it blends science fiction with primates. Moreover, its production design style is unique, seamlessly merging rustic and futuristic elements.
1. King Kong (1933)
The Ultimate Classic Primate Movie
Prior to “Planet of the Apes”, no movie had as significantly influenced the portrayal of primates on-screen as much as the iconic 1933 film, “King Kong”. The story revolves around a filmmaker and his team who venture to an enigmatic lost island, only to return to the U.S. with captivating footage and a colossal gorilla called Kong.
The film King Kong is remarkable because it contrasts the flaws of humankind with the relentless power of nature, as symbolized by Kong. When this colossal ape wreaks havoc in New York City, it’s his affection that ultimately brings about his demise, and Kong displays more human qualities than those trying to slaughter him. This thought-provoking contrast undeniably influenced Planet of the Apes, and it’s debatable whether the sci-fi series would have originated without the influence of King Kong.
Read More
- 50 Goal Sound ID Codes for Blue Lock Rivals
- Quarantine Zone: The Last Check Beginner’s Guide
- 50 Ankle Break & Score Sound ID Codes for Basketball Zero
- Basketball Zero Boombox & Music ID Codes – Roblox
- How to use a Modifier in Wuthering Waves
- Lucky Offense Tier List & Reroll Guide
- Ultimate Myth Idle RPG Tier List & Reroll Guide
- Mirren Star Legends Tier List [Global Release] (May 2025)
- Master the Pitch: Rematch Controls – Keyboard & Controller (Open Beta)
- Enshrouded Hemotoxin Crisis: How to Disable the Curse and Save Your Sanity!
2025-05-26 15:11