Planet of the Apes Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Planet of the Apes" excels in showcasing the movie's visual aesthetics with its stunning 1080p, 2.35:1-framed transfer, courtesy of Fox. Right from the get-go, viewers are treated to a meticulous reproduction of detail that beautifully captures the essence of the film’s visuals, from the rudimentary and almost comical set design of the space shuttle to the lush, vibrant ecosystems of the mysterious planet. Even in the simplicity and outdated appearance of the shuttle’s interior, the Blu-ray manages to highlight the charm and character of every element, from the metallic hues of captain’s chairs to the bulky, retro buttons and screens. The transition from the stark, barren desert landscapes to the introduction of life and greenery is seamless, with the dense foliage popping with vivacity and realism.

As the narrative progresses, the transfer's prowess continues to impress with its sharpness and clarity, particularly in rendering natural textures and colors. The rocky cliffs, desert ground, and water all boast remarkable detail and color balance. Upon encountering vegetation, viewers will appreciate the distinction and brightness of greens, each shade maintaining its own identity without blending into an indistinct mass. Human characters come to life with exceptional detail; every bead of sweat and strand of hair is visible with lifelike accuracy, while flesh tones appear natural under varying lighting conditions.

Moreover, the Blu-ray transfer highlights the adeptness of ape makeup and costumes, proving their effectiveness under high-definition scrutiny. Despite minor issues like occasional pops and speckles on the print that arguably add to the film’s nostalgic charm, the overall video quality remains sharp and immersive throughout. Fine grain is present but contributes to replicating a theatrical experience, affirming this release as a must-have for fans wishing to experience "Planet of the Apes" in unparalleled visual fidelity on large home screens.

The audio presentation of "Planet of the Apes" on Blu-ray boasts a noteworthy DTS-HD MA 5.1 lossless soundtrack alongside the original mono track, offering an auditory experience that both honors and elevates the film's initial sound design. The DTS mix, while identifiably robust and favoring the original material, occasionally borders on the excessively loud, particularly at reference volume, which may challenge some listeners. This issue notwithstanding, the mix predominantly anchors itself in the center channel, with sporadic forays into more expansive auditory landscapes. Noteworthy scenes such as the crash-landing sequence, despite its high-pitched intensity, effectively harness sound to emphasize the on-screen chaos and impending doom, aligning well with the film's visual disorientation.

As the narrative progresses, instances of auditory expansion become slightly more frequent, though the soundtrack generally remains reserved. Environmental sound elements like a thunderstorm briefly immerse viewers, yet the track seldom capitalizes on its multi-channel capabilities to deliver discrete rear-channel effects or subtle atmospheric sounds. However, this restraint avoids the pitfalls of an overzealous multi-channel remix that could detract from the film’s original ambiance. Exceptionally clear dialogue and Jerry Goldsmith's distinguished score stand out as audio presentation highlights, showcasing meticulous care in their rendition.

In essence, the audio presentation of "Planet of the Apes" on Blu-ray is tailored for aficionados who value fidelity to the film's initial auditory vision over a modernized sound spectacle. The DTS-HD soundtrack effectively navigates the limitations of its source material to deliver a sonically coherent experience. It mirrors the film's tension and thematic depth without succumbing to unnecessary acoustical embellishment, making it a commendable effort likely representing the peak audio treatment this classic film will receive.

The "Planet of the Apes" Blu-ray special edition proves itself a treasure trove for aficionados and newcomers alike, presenting an exceptional assortment of extras that delve deeply into the film's legacy, its groundbreaking makeup artistry, and the science fiction genre as a whole. The disc features an introduction by the animated ape Lawgiver, setting the stage for an immersive viewing experience. Unique among these is the inclusion of two audio commentary tracks, one featuring insights from key actors and the makeup artist John Chambers, and another by composer Jerry Goldsmith, though the latter might have benefited from a different format given its sparse content. The disc makes good use of its interactive capabilities, especially notable in the extensive "Behind the Planet of the Apes Documentary," which offers a deep dive into the production process. Fans will appreciate the blend of historical context provided by text-based commentaries and an abundance of behind-the-scenes footage, making it a definitive collection for any "Planet of the Apes" enthusiast.

Extras included in this disc:

• Introduction by Lawgiver: Animated character introduction to the Blu-ray extras.
• Audio Commentary with Actors & John Chambers: Insightful commentary track from actors and the makeup artist.
• Audio Commentary by Jerry Goldsmith: Composer's take on the film's music, albeit less frequent than desired.
• Text-based Commentary by Eric Greene: A rapid-paced commentary that adds depth to the viewing experience.
• Science of the Apes BonusView: A featurette series exploring the scientific aspects related to the movie.
• Beyond the Forbidden Zone Adventure Game: A text-based interactive game centered around survival and science themes.
• A Public Service Announcement From ANSA: Mock PSA detailing the fictional space agency's goals.
• Evolution of the Apes: A comprehensive look at the origins and development of the franchise.
• Impact of the Apes: Exploration of the film's marketing journey and merchandise.
• Behind the Planet of the Apes Documentary: An in-depth interactive documentary covering all aspects of production.
• Behind the Planet of the Apes Promo: Preview for the feature-length documentary.
• Archives of the Apes: Including original makeup tests, on-set footage, outtakes, and more.
• The Galleries of the Apes: Collections of stills encompassing newspaper clips, pressbook images, advertising materials, makeup, costume designs, props, and behind-the-scenes photos.

Planet of the Apes," a 1968 sci-fi classic that remains a cornerstone of the genre, is presented anew on Blu-ray with arresting clarity and depth. Starring Charlton Heston in the pivotal role of George Taylor, the film plunges into a narrative laden with social and political undercurrents. Its portrayal of a world where humans are subjugated by intelligent apes serves as a mirror to our own, reflecting issues of hierarchy, societal order, and the pursuit of knowledge. The journey of Heston's character, from a stranded astronaut to a figure of revolutionary potential, is rendered with compelling precision, supported by Roddy McDowall’s Cornelius and Kim Hunter’s Zira, whose performances bridge the gap between species with emotive force.

At its core, "Planet of the Apes" is an astute commentary wrapped in the thrilling guise of science fiction, leveraging its fantastical setting to explore themes of evolution, equality, and the inherent flaws of dogma. The film's daring take on societal structures and the evolution debate boldly challenges the audience's perceptions, offering a narrative that is as thought-provoking now as it was at the time of its release. This cinematic masterpiece not only entertains but also invites deep reflection on the constructs that define civilization, both in the realms of humans and apes.

From a technical viewpoint, the Blu-ray presentation highlights the film's groundbreaking achievements in makeup and costuming, earning it an honorary Oscar for John Chambers' makeup effects. Its dystopian landscape, characterized by a stark contrast between the primitive and the quasi-modern, is vividly brought to life, showcasing the ingenious blend of technology and artistry that has made "Planet of the Apes" an enduring symbol of cinematic excellence. The meticulous attention to detail in the creation of the ape society underscores the film's innovative spirit, making it a visually captivating experience that continues to resonate with audiences across generations.

The Blu-ray release of "Planet of the Apes" stands as a seminal achievement in the preservation and celebration of classic cinema, particularly within the Science Fiction genre. This release not only showcases the groundbreaking aspects of the original film, such as its revolutionary makeup effects, compelling narrative, and dynamic pacing but also highlights its crucial role in shaping movie marketing and franchise building. With impeccable picture quality and a robust lossless audio track that includes the film’s original monaural soundtrack, this edition provides an unparalleled viewing experience. The addition of an extensive array of bonus materials further enriches the appreciation for this cinematic marvel, offering insights into its creation, impact, and legacy.

Furthermore, the Blu-ray edition demonstrates a meticulous attention to detail in its presentation, ensuring that aficionados and newcomers alike experience the full magnitude of the film's influence on both its immediate genre and the broader realm of film production and distribution. The availability of "Planet of the Apes" and its sequels both individually and as part of an exceptional multi-disc collection underscores the enduring appeal and relevance of the saga. This collection is not merely an acquisition but an essential component of any Blu-ray library, underscoring the film’s storied position in cinema history through its combination of entertainment value, thematic depth, and unparalleled quality of restoration.

In conclusion, the Blu-ray release of "Planet of the Apes" is an absolute triumph, marrying superior technical quality with deep cinephile appreciation. Its significance cannot be overstated, offering both a benchmark for how classic films should be presented in modern formats and a testament to the enduring legacy of a film that redefined what cinema could achieve. For its profound influence on multiple aspects of cinematic production, presentation, and narrative innovation, this release garners the highest possible recommendation.