9 Fascinating Elements Missing from the Modern Planet of the Apes Series

1. A Dark Twist: Human Slaves

In the original Planet of the Apes film, the shocking revelation of humanity enslaved by the evolved apes added a sinister layer to the narrative. Surprisingly, this chilling dynamic has been absent in the recent Planet of the Apes series, which focused more on the conflicts between humans and apes.

Noa in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

2. The Enigmatic Dr. Zaius

Among the iconic characters of the original series, Dr. Zaius stands out as a villainous figure strictly enforcing ape laws and beliefs. The absence of this compelling character in the modern films leaves a void that could be filled in the upcoming sequel, offering a fresh take on his origin story.

Dr. Zaius at his desk in Planet of the Apes

3. Unveiling the Icarus Mystery

The Icarus, a symbolic spaceship from the original Planet of the Apes, holds a mysterious significance that has yet to be explored in the modern adaptations. With subtle hints and references in previous films, the return of the Icarus in the upcoming sequel could unveil new layers of the franchise's lore.

Rise of the Planet of the Apes Icarus easter egg

4. Revisiting Nuclear Warfare

While the modern movies attribute humanity's downfall to the Simian Flu, the original series portrayed a bleak world ravaged by nuclear war. Introducing the theme of nuclear warfare in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes could offer a different perspective on the apocalyptic setting, enriching the storyline with historical context.

The twist ending of Planet of the Apes

5. Embracing Mutants' Legacy

Mutants, a bizarre and intriguing element from the original Planet of the Apes movies, have yet to make an appearance in the modern adaptations. Their underground existence and altered forms could introduce a new layer of mystery and danger to the evolving ape civilization in the upcoming sequel.

The mutants in Beneath the Planet of the Apes.

6. Evolution of Ape Culture

While the modern ape society has shown progress, it still lacks the sophistication and resemblance to humans seen in the original films. Enhancing the ape culture in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes with advanced societal structures and interactions could deepen the exploration of their civilization.

A ape society next to an ocean in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

7. Diverse Ape Religions

Religion played a significant role in the original Planet of the Apes series, shaping ape societies with diverse beliefs and practices. The absence of this cultural aspect in the modern adaptations presents an opportunity for Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes to delve into the intricate faiths and rituals of the evolving ape communities.

Apes on horseback in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

8. Resurrecting George Taylor

As the central character in the original film, George Taylor's absence in the modern series is conspicuous. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes could reintroduce this iconic character, offering a fresh perspective on the narrative while paying homage to the roots of the franchise.

Charlton Heston as George Taylor is surrounded by apes in Planet of the Apes.

9. Social Commentary Revival

One of the defining features of the original Planet of the Apes movies was their profound social commentary, a component that has been less pronounced in the modern adaptations. By revisiting the impactful commentary in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, the series could regain its thought-provoking essence and relevance in today's context.

Kingdom of the planet of the apes image with an ape on horseback riding towards an overgrown city