Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes: The Real-Life Ape School and Other Home Release Secrets
The highly anticipated sequel, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, is finally hitting home screens, bringing with it a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes content that will satisfy fans’ insatiable thirst for more ape-centric action. But the special features are more than just eye candy; they offer a glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication that fueled this cinematic masterpiece.
As the world prepares for the digital release on July 9 and the 4K physical release on August 27, anticipation is reaching feverish pitch. And for good reason – Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is not merely a popcorn flick; it’s a nuanced examination of the fight for survival, challenging long-held assumptions about humanity and intelligence in a society where the apes are now the dominant force. This film is a visual spectacle, but it goes deeper, delving into themes of interspecies conflict, environmental destruction, and the search for identity itself.
But the release is more than just the film’s return; it’s also an opportunity to dive into the world-building and the dedication to realism that director Wes Ball brought to the project. The special features, particularly the “Inside the Lens: The Raw Cut,” offer a fascinating look at the evolution of the film from its initial stages to the final product.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s on offer:
The Big Ticket Item: The “Inside the Lens: The Raw Cut” is a must-have for any fan who wants to see the process behind the spectacle. It presents a side-by-side comparison of the finished film with an earlier version, showcasing the unpolished VFX, and allowing viewers to appreciate the transformation of the film as the CGI was finalized. It’s a glimpse behind the curtain, allowing audiences to see how the film developed from its raw form to the spectacular finished product.
Behind-the-Scenes Secrets: The home release also features 14 deleted scenes, offering even more insight into the characters and the narrative . This extra content doesn’t merely offer deleted scenes, but provides insights into the film’s decision-making process, revealing alternate plot paths and character development. It’s an opportunity to explore the film on a deeper level.
Ape School: A Journey of Transformation: One of the most intriguing features is the “Inside the Forbidden Zone: Making Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes”, a behind-the-scenes documentary. It delves into the film’s making-of, and showcases the "Ape School," a training program designed to help the actors move and act like apes. This program is not just a physical training ground, it’s a journey of transformation, designed to allow the actors to truly understand the apes’ physiology and behavior.
This exclusive clip offers a glimpse into the rigorous training process that actors underwent, mimicking the apes’ movements and learning to communicate through sign language. Actors spent hours in this Ape School, working with experts on ape behavior, anatomy, and communication. This dedication to realism is evident throughout the film, and the Ape School is a testament to the commitment of the cast and crew to create a believable, emotive portrayal of the apes.
A Deeper Look at the Apes: The Ape School is a perfect example of how Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes went beyond the mere creation of a fictional world. It aimed to create a world that felt real. By immersed in the world of the apes, the actors gained a deeper understanding of those creatures and were able to bring their emotions and motivations to life on screen.
Beyond the Film: These special features are more than just bonus content . They are windows into the creative process, allowing viewers to appreciate the dedication and skill that went into making this film. From the meticulous detail of the VFX to the intensive actor training, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is a testament to the power of filmmaking to transport audiences to new worlds.
The Legacy of Apes: The "Apes" franchise has long been a reflection of humanity’s concerns, anxieties, and aspirations. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes continues this tradition. It challenges us to rethink our relationship with nature, technology, and each other. The film’s success lies in its ability to be both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The home release is more than just a chance to revisit the film . It’s an opportunity to delve deeper into this complex and exciting world. It’s a chance to see the movie making process at its best, and to discover the hidden gems and secrets that lay behind the silver screen.
And no matter how many times you’ve seen the film, there’s always something new to discover in the "Apes" universe. From the apes’ sign language to the spectacular visual effects, this film is a showcase of human creativity at its finest.
In a world where the line between reality and fiction is blurred, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes challenges us to look beyond the surface. It encourages us to question our assumptions and to embrace the unknown. Prepare to be captivated, to be challenged, and to be left wanting more.
