Planet of the Apes - Watch Order: Modern Era

2011 - 20244 Films8h 40m4.2 Average

The modern Planet of the Apes films represent a new era in the franchise that uses cutting-edge motion capture technology to bring intelligent apes to life with unprecedented realism. This trilogy-turned-quadrilogy follows a tight narrative arc, chronicling the rise of ape civilization through compelling character development and spectacular action sequences.

This watch order provides a focused experience of the contemporary storyline, recommended for viewers who prefer modern filmmaking techniques or want to experience the series' current direction. The films form a cohesive narrative that stands on its own while honoring the legacy of the original movies.

1
Rise of the Planet of the Apes poster

Rise of the Planet of the Apes

20111h 45m4.3
Director: Rupert Wyatt
Cast: Andy Serkis, James Franco, Freida Pinto, John Lithgow, Brian Cox

A highly intelligent chimpanzee named Caesar has been living a peaceful suburban life ever since he was born. But when he gets taken to a cruel primate facility, Caesar decides to revolt against those who have harmed him.

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2
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes poster

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

20142h 10m4.3
Director: Matt Reeves
Cast: Andy Serkis, Jason Clarke, Toby Kebbell, Gary Oldman, Keri Russell

A group of scientists in San Francisco struggle to stay alive in the aftermath of a plague that is wiping out humanity, while Caesar tries to maintain dominance over his community of intelligent apes.

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3
War for the Planet of the Apes poster

War for the Planet of the Apes

20172h 20m4.2
Director: Matt Reeves
Cast: Andy Serkis, Woody Harrelson, Karin Konoval, Terry Notary, Steve Zahn

Caesar and his apes are forced into a deadly conflict with an army of humans led by a ruthless Colonel. After the apes suffer unimaginable losses, Caesar wrestles with his darker instincts and begins his own mythic quest to avenge his kind. As the journey finally brings them face to face, Caesar and the Colonel are pitted against each other in an epic battle that will determine the fate of both their species and the future of the planet.

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4
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes poster

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

20242h 25m4.1
Director: Wes Ball
Cast: Owen Teague, Freya Allan, Kevin Durand, Peter Macon, William H. Macy

Several generations following Caesar's reign, apes – now the dominant species – live harmoniously while humans have been reduced to living in the shadows. As a new tyrannical ape leader builds his empire, one young ape undertakes a harrowing journey that will cause him to question all he's known about the past and to make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike.

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