Detailed Summary
The Rise of the Apes
Set in a dystopian future in 1991, where apes have become enslaved by humans, Conquest of the Planet of the Apes tells the story of Caesar (Roddy McDowall), the son of the intelligent apes Cornelius and Zira. After his parents were killed, Caesar was raised in secrecy by Armando (Ricardo Montalbán), a circus owner. The film begins with Caesar and Armando arriving in a city where apes are being used as domestic workers and treated cruelly by their human masters.
Caesar’s Discovery and Capture
Caesar is horrified by the treatment of his fellow apes. When he accidentally reveals his ability to speak in public, Armando attempts to cover for him but is eventually captured. Caesar goes into hiding among the enslaved apes, but his growing anger and resentment against the humans drive him to lead a revolution.
The Ape Rebellion
Caesar begins to organize the apes, teaching them how to fight back against their oppressors. He carefully orchestrates a rebellion, leading the apes to rise up against their human captors. The rebellion culminates in a violent and chaotic battle, where the apes overpower the human authorities.
Caesar’s Final Decision
At the climax of the film, Caesar confronts Governor Breck (Don Murray), the oppressive leader who symbolizes human tyranny. Although Caesar initially orders Breck’s execution, he is persuaded by MacDonald (Hari Rhodes), a sympathetic human, to show mercy. Caesar hesitates, questioning whether the apes will become as cruel as the humans they overthrow, but ultimately spares Breck’s life, declaring the beginning of a new era where apes will dominate the Earth.
Movie Ending
The film ends on a powerful note with Caesar delivering a speech to the apes, proclaiming their victory and the end of human domination. However, he also warns of the dangers of becoming like their former oppressors, leaving the future of ape civilization uncertain.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, “Conquest of the Planet of the Apes” does not have any post-credits scenes.
Type of Movie
This film is a science fiction action drama, with strong themes of revolution, social justice, and the consequences of oppression.
Cast
- Roddy McDowall as Caesar
- Don Murray as Governor Breck
- Ricardo Montalbán as Armando
- Hari Rhodes as MacDonald
- Natalie Trundy as Lisa
- Severn Darden as Kolp
Film Music and Composer
The score for “Conquest of the Planet of the Apes” was composed by Tom Scott. The music is intense and dramatic, reflecting the film’s dark and revolutionary themes.
Filming Locations
- Century City, California: The production team shot the futuristic city scenes in Century City, giving the film a modern, somewhat sterile appearance that perfectly matches its dystopian setting.
- Fox Ranch, Malibu Creek State Park: Some of the exterior scenes, including the climax, were shot at this iconic location.
These locations helped create the oppressive, controlled environment that contrasts with the natural freedom the apes seek.
Awards and Nominations
While “Conquest of the Planet of the Apes” didn’t receive any major awards or nominations, it remains a significant film within the Planet of the Apes franchise for its bold themes and darker tone.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- The film was originally much darker, with a more violent ending where Caesar does not show mercy. However, this was changed to a more hopeful tone due to concerns about the film’s message.
- Roddy McDowall, who played Caesar, had also played Cornelius in previous films. His performance as Caesar is one of the most praised aspects of the movie.
- The budget constraints led to creative solutions, such as using existing locations and limiting special effects, which added to the film’s gritty realism.
Inspirations and References
- Social Commentary: The film draws strong inspiration from the civil rights movement and the social upheavals of the 1960s and 70s, echoing themes of slavery, oppression, and rebellion.
- Historical Revolutions: The ape rebellion draws inspiration from historical slave revolts, particularly the Haitian Revolution, which saw enslaved people successfully overthrow their colonial rulers.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
The original cut of the film featured a much more violent and bleak ending, where Caesar fully embraces his role as a revolutionary leader with no mercy. This ending was re-edited to make Caesar’s decision more ambiguous and hopeful.
Book Adaptations and Differences
While the Planet of the Apes series was originally based on the novel by Pierre Boulle, “Conquest of the Planet of the Apes” was an original screenplay that expanded on the concepts introduced in the earlier films and the novel.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Caesar’s Speech: The climax where Caesar delivers his speech to the apes, declaring their victory over humans.
- The Rebellion: The intense and chaotic scenes of the apes rising up against their human captors.
- Armando’s Death: The heartbreaking moment when Armando sacrifices himself to protect Caesar.
Iconic Quotes
- “We shall build our own cities, in which there will be no place for humans except to serve our ends!” – Caesar
- “Where there is fire, there is smoke. And in that smoke, from this day forward, my people will crouch and conspire and plot and plan for the inevitable day of man’s downfall.” – Caesar
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film uses color-coded uniforms for the apes, subtly reinforcing the hierarchy within their society.
- The number “1991” is significant as it represents the near-future setting at the time of the film’s release, emphasizing the rapid decline of human society.
Trivia
- This film is the fourth installment in the Planet of the Apes series.
- Roddy McDowall was initially reluctant to take on the role of Caesar but ultimately agreed, delivering one of the most memorable performances of his career.
- The film’s original title was “The Revolution of the Planet of the Apes.”
Why Watch?
“Conquest of the Planet of the Apes” is a thought-provoking and action-packed film that offers a darker, more mature take on the Planet of the Apes series. Its themes of revolution and the dangers of power make it a relevant and compelling watch even today.
Director’s Other Movies
- Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973)
- Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971)
- Jigsaw (1968)
- Panic in the Year Zero! (1962)
Recommended Films for Fans
- Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973)
- Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971)
- Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970)
- Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
- Twelve Monkeys (1995)
