Rise of the Planet of the Apes

Along with X-Men, this is the second blockbuster this year that pushes the envelope in spectacular ways (WETA studio has once again pushed the boundaries of the impossible) while not being afraid to be clever. There may be some reservations regarding it, but we will see after the second screening. Very soon. [PS: When I heard the word "No!" my heart stopped for a few seconds.] (21/08/2011)

Veni, Vidi, Vici. Now two Caesars can say this. A prequel thirty years later where the senselessly grafted on (and absolutely unnecessary) action finale in “what didn’t fit into Jackson’s King Kong" style which unfortunately reduces the emotional ride mediated by soulful ape gazes to a regular, although very well-made, popcorn movie. But it also has a “heart", which is pretty rare for blockbusters in recent years. (11/08/2011)

The film objectively has enough flaws (logical missteps, sometimes strange editing, a few unnecessarily cheesy scenes). But it deserves great respect for its childish enthusiasm and completely anachronic use of tricks. I haven't enjoyed the liveliness and soul of trick sequences this much in a long time... as if Rise of the Planet of the Apes was actually going back to the 1960s, when every trick was a little joyful miracle. Personally, this film reminded me of why I love science fiction so much (that uplifting feeling of magical escape from the everydayness) and surprised me very pleasantly by resigning on the theme of direct civilizational conflict. In short, we follow the spontaneous demise of the old community and the resulting birth of a new community, which has, much more than the features of the classic apocalyptic sci-fi elements, features of a romantic story of a lone monster and its naive creator. At the same time, the film establishes the opportunity to tell the whole series again (including a reference to the unfortunate flight of Icarus), which makes me happy after watching this intimate, emotional and outwardly pleasurable spectacle. (29/07/2011)

Phenomenal gem, polished in every aspect. A film with visual effects that are used exactly in the right places and details (the ape faces and emotions), excellent and dynamic action, captivating drama, a surprising intimate touch. Those expecting big-budget action with millions of apes battling the human population will be disappointed. The new apes are going in a completely different direction, significantly more sophisticated and entertaining. It's still popcorn and a film made mainly for “entertainment”, but the inventiveness and enthusiasm of the people behind it for the material cannot be overlooked. Thumbs up, excellent work, and a film that truly entertains from beginning to end. (13/09/2011)

Resonant. Revolting. It's hard to guess where Rupert Wyatt came from, but we can only be glad that he got to possibly the most surprising hit of recent years. Nobody wanted to see this ape's birth, the derision over an unnecessary remake was endless, and suddenly only a few people are speaking up. James Franco surprises with his acting versatility, Tom Felton confirms his villainous face, and Caesar, accompanied by Patrick Doyle's amazing music, conquers not only the highest branches of the trees but also the hearts of the audience. Despite a few surprising (but not disturbing) logical stumbling blocks, I have to admit that in this campaign, he wanted to continue at all costs, and almost everyone eagerly supports the enraged primates again. (25/10/2011)