Planet of the Apes (1968) Watch Online Free

Astronaut Taylor crash lands on a distant planet ruled by apes who use a primitive race of humans for experimentation and sport. Soon Taylor finds himself among the hunted, his life in the hands of a benevolent chimpanzee scientist.

Planet of the Apes (1968), directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and starring Charlton Heston as astronaut George Taylor, is a science fiction classic that explores themes of humanity, civilization, and the consequences of nuclear war. The film begins with Taylor and his crew embarking on a space mission to Alpha Centauri. After a crash landing on a desolate planet, Taylor and his surviving crew members discover a world where intelligent apes dominate, and humans are mute, primitive beings.

Taylor is captured by the apes and taken to their city, where he encounters Dr. Zira (Kim Hunter), a chimpanzee scientist, and Dr. Cornelius (Roddy McDowall), an archaeologist. They are intrigued by Taylor’s ability to speak and his advanced intelligence, challenging the apes’ preconceived notions about humans. Dr. Zaius (Maurice Evans), the orangutan leader and chief defender of the faith, is skeptical and seeks to suppress any evidence that contradicts the established ape doctrine.

As Taylor navigates this society, he uncovers evidence of a past where humans were the dominant species, leading to their downfall through nuclear war. The film culminates with Taylor discovering the ruins of the Statue of Liberty, realizing that the planet he is on is Earth, devastated by human actions. This revelation serves as a powerful commentary on the potential self-destructive path of humanity.

Themes in Planet of the Apes (1968)

Planet of the Apes delves into several profound themes:

1. Human Nature and Self-Destruction: The film critiques humanity’s propensity for violence and self-destruction, suggesting that without change, humanity is doomed to repeat its mistakes.
2. Social Hierarchy and Prejudice: By portraying a society where apes dominate and humans are subjugated, the film mirrors real-world issues of racism and social inequality, prompting viewers to reflect on their own societal structures.
3. Religion and Dogma: The ape society’s rigid religious beliefs and resistance to scientific discovery highlight the dangers of dogma and the suppression of knowledge.
4. The Fallibility of Civilization: The film suggests that even advanced civilizations are susceptible to collapse due to internal flaws and external threats, emphasizing the fragility of societal progress.
5. The Search for Identity: Taylor’s journey is also a quest for self-understanding, as he grapples with his place in a world where his species is subjugated, reflecting the universal human desire for purpose and meaning.

Impact of Planet of the Apes (1968)

Upon its release, Planet of the Apes was both a critical and commercial success, grossing over $20 million against a production budget of $5. 8 million. Its innovative makeup and prosthetics, designed by John Chambers, received an honorary Academy Award, setting new standards for special effects in cinema. The film’s thought-provoking narrative and twist ending have cemented its status as a classic, influencing numerous works in the science fiction genre and beyond.

The film’s success led to a franchise that includes sequels, television series, and reboots, each exploring and expanding upon the original’s themes. Its cultural impact is evident in its continued relevance, with discussions about its social commentary and influence on popular culture persisting decades after its release.

10 Reasons to Watch Planet of the Apes (1968)

1. Innovative Special Effects and Makeup: The film’s groundbreaking makeup and prosthetics, which earned an honorary Academy Award, set new standards for visual effects in cinema. The realistic portrayal of apes as sentient beings was a significant achievement for its time.
2. Thought-Provoking Social Commentary: Planet of the Apes offers a profound critique of human nature, exploring themes of violence, prejudice, and the potential for self-destruction. Its allegorical storytelling encourages viewers to reflect on societal issues and human behavior.
3. Compelling Narrative with a Twist Ending: The film’s engaging plot, combined with its iconic twist ending, keeps viewers captivated and prompts them to reconsider their perceptions of the story. This narrative structure has been influential in storytelling across various media.
4. Strong Performances by the Cast: Charlton Heston delivers a powerful performance as George Taylor, bringing depth and complexity to his character. The supporting cast, including Kim Hunter and Roddy McDowall, also provide memorable portrayals that enhance the film’s impact.
5. Cultural and Historical Significance: As a product of the late 1960s, the film reflects the era’s social and political climate, offering insights into the concerns and attitudes of the time. Its enduring relevance speaks to its universal themes and storytelling.
6. Influence on the Science Fiction Genre: Planet of the Apes has had a lasting impact on science fiction, inspiring numerous films, television series, and literature. Its exploration of complex themes within a science fiction framework has set a precedent for the genre.
7. Memorable Musical Score: The film’s avant-garde musical score, composed by Jerry Goldsmith, complements its eerie atmosphere and enhances the viewing experience. The unconventional use of instruments and techniques contributes to the film’s unique soundscape.
8. Exploration of Philosophical Themes: The film delves into deep philosophical questions about humanity, civilization, and the nature of intelligence, prompting viewers to engage in introspection and critical thinking.
9. Timeless Relevance: Despite being released over five decades ago, the film’s themes remain pertinent, addressing issues such as environmental destruction, social inequality, and the consequences of war. Its timeless message continues to resonate with audiences.
10. Iconic Status in Film History: Planet of the Apes holds a significant place in film history, being selected for preservation in the National Film Registry for its cultural, historical, and aesthetic importance. Watching it allows viewers to experience a piece of cinematic history that has shaped modern storytelling in both science fiction and popular culture.