The Planet of the Apes film franchise has intrigued and entertained audiences for decades with its compelling mix of science fiction, social commentary, and thrilling action. Whether you are a new viewer curious about how to start watching or a returning fan wanting to revisit the saga, understanding the correct order of the Planet of the Apes movies is important to grasp the evolution of the storyline. With multiple timelines and reboots, the sequence can be a bit confusing. This topic provides a clear guide to help you watch the Planet of the Apes movies in the most logical order, ensuring you fully appreciate the rich narrative and character development.
The Original Planet of the Apes Series (1968-1973)
The original series began in the late 1960s and quickly became iconic. It features a dystopian future ruled by intelligent apes, with humans treated as second-class citizens or worse. Here is the order of the original five films
- Planet of the Apes (1968)– The first and most famous entry, where astronaut George Taylor lands on a mysterious planet ruled by apes. The shocking twist at the end has become a legendary cinematic moment.
- Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970)– A direct sequel that introduces a hidden society of mutated humans and further explores the dangers of nuclear destruction.
- Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971)– Shifting the story to the past, this film follows three intelligent apes who travel back to 20th-century Earth, offering commentary on human nature and societal fear.
- Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972)– A darker entry that shows how apes began their uprising against humans, leading to a revolutionary future.
- Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973)– The final film in the original timeline, focusing on the fragile peace between humans and apes and the beginnings of a new civilization.
Watching Tip
Watch these movies in their release order. They follow a mostly chronological storyline, though the time travel elements may require close attention to fully understand the timeline.
The 2001 Reimagining
In 2001, director Tim Burton released a standalone reimagining of the original film
- Planet of the Apes (2001)– This version stars Mark Wahlberg and presents a different take on the original concept, featuring an alternate universe with its own timeline and characters. While not directly connected to the other films, it stands on its own and may be enjoyed separately.
Watching Tip
You can watch the 2001 version anytime, as it does not tie into the original or reboot series. However, many fans recommend viewing it after the original series to better appreciate the differences and creative liberties taken.
The Reboot Trilogy (2011-2017)
The Planet of the Apes reboot trilogy serves as a modern prequel to the events that could lead to the ape-dominated future seen in the original films. It explores how the rise of the apes began and the decline of human civilization.
- Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)– Set in the near future, this film shows how a genetically engineered chimpanzee named Caesar gains enhanced intelligence and begins to question humanity’s authority. This origin story is critical for the new timeline.
- Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)– A decade later, Caesar leads a colony of intelligent apes while humanity struggles to survive a deadly virus. Tensions between humans and apes rise in this emotionally powerful chapter.
- War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)– In this conclusion to the reboot trilogy, Caesar faces his most personal and devastating challenges as war with the remaining humans becomes inevitable.
Watching Tip
These films are best watched in release order. They tell a continuous story that builds Caesar’s character arc from a lab-raised chimp to a revolutionary leader. The visual effects and storytelling are especially praised in this modern trilogy.
Planet of the Apes (2024) and Beyond
A new installment in the franchise titledKingdom of the Planet of the Apes(2024) continues the legacy of the reboot trilogy. Although set in the same universe, it jumps forward in time to explore the world after Caesar’s death, showing how ape society evolves and what remains of humanity. This film introduces new characters and further expands the mythology.
- Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024)– Focuses on a new generation of apes, dealing with leadership, survival, and the future of the species in a post-Caesar world.
Watching Tip
While not required, watching the reboot trilogy first will provide crucial context about Caesar’s impact and how the ape society came to be. This film continues that lineage while also opening up new storytelling possibilities.
Chronological Viewing Order
For those who prefer to watch the films based on the in-universe timeline rather than release date, here is the recommended order
- Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
- Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
- War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
- Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024)
- Planet of the Apes (1968)
- Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970)
- Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971)
- Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972)
- Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973)
- Planet of the Apes (2001) – optional
This order allows you to follow the narrative evolution from the rise of the apes to the eventual fall of humanity and the emergence of a new civilization. It blends the reboot and original timelines for a broader understanding of the franchise.
In what order are the Planet of the Apes movies best viewed? The answer depends on your interest whether you want to follow the story as it was originally told or explore it chronologically for a different perspective. The franchise offers a complex, rewarding narrative filled with philosophical questions, dramatic turns, and memorable characters. With over five decades of cinematic history, the Planet of the Apes series remains one of science fiction’s most thought-provoking and enduring sagas. Whether you’re a newcomer or a longtime fan, there’s never been a better time to experience these powerful films in the right order.