Reviewed by Cameron Williams

“Rise of the Planet of the Apes” is a prequel to “Planet of the Apes” – a B-grade science fiction film from 1968 that evolved into a cinema classic.  The sequels failed to be memorable wallowing in low-budget hell that has a  budget in the millions, but more in common with the sequels.

Will (James Franco) is a scientist working to cure Alzheimer’s disease, who is testing his drug on apes. The story takes a turn when the subjects show signs of intelligence.
The apes are created using CGI from Weta Digital. It’s an outstanding achievement. They are believable and emotionally engaging.

When tackling the ethical implications of medical research and animal cruelty the film shines. The ideas are fleshed out nicely and will make you cancel your next trip to the zoo.

However, things fall apart in the final act. Director Rupert Wyatt tries to inject doses of action, but plays it too safe. After so much hype, it’s a dud finale that barely scrapes by in the closing moments.

[box]Reviewer Cameron Williams has a movie website at popcornjunkie.wordpress.com
Regular film reviewer Dougal Macdonald is on leave[/box]