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The Legacy of the Planet of the Apes Franchise
Throughout the history of the Planet of the Apes film series, one consistent tradition has been the use of long, unique titles for the sequels. From “Beneath” to “War,” each installment has featured a fitting first word that sets the tone for the story that unfolds. This tradition continues with the upcoming release of “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” a title that director Wes Ball reveals was always his intended choice for the film.
Exploring Alternative Titles
During the pitching process, Ball had considered an alternative title for the film, revealing that he was torn between two options. The director shared that he originally had two concept art pieces in mind, one for “Empire of the Planet of the Apes” and the other for “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.” The latter title ultimately won out, as it encapsulated the idea of the first ape kingdom beginning to take shape, with Proximus Caesar portrayed by Kevin Durand as the central figure.
Proximus Caesar’s character is depicted as a dynamic and assertive leader who is focused on establishing the first kingdom of apes through a combination of ambition, aggression, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge and technology. Without delving into spoilers, the choice of title “Kingdom” perfectly reflects the narrative direction and the pivotal role played by Proximus in shaping the ape civilization.
The Significance of the Title Choice
While “Empire” could have also been a fitting title, Ball explains that the team wanted to avoid the immediate association with “The Empire Strikes Back,” a legendary sequel in the Star Wars franchise. By selecting “Kingdom,” the filmmakers aimed to set a distinct tone for their film while acknowledging the importance of the Planet of the Apes franchise within the studio’s portfolio.
Ball emphasizes the studio’s investment in the Apes film series, hinting at potential future installments beyond the upcoming release. The goal was to craft a story that not only stands on its own but also serves as a tantalizing prologue, inviting audiences to envision a broader narrative canvas and the possible directions the franchise could explore in the future.
Anticipation for the Future
As “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” prepares to hit theaters on May 10, fans are eager to witness the next chapter in this storied franchise. Ball’s vision for the film hints at a compelling narrative that not only pays homage to the series’ legacy but also plants the seeds for potential future adventures in the ape civilization.
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