There was also a TV show in the 70s, but it didn't quite have the same essence as the original movies. Then we had that movie with Mark Wahlberg in 2001. Of course it wasn't as good as I'd hope.
There has been comic adaptations before and now BOOM! Studios is embarking on another series, tied to the original movie's continuity. Will this attempt succeed to capture the franchise's true essence? == TEASER ==
Word came out this morning that the comic has already sold out through Diamond and Haven distributors before it even hits store shelves. Looks like I'm not the only one anticipating this new series. It turns out a trailer for the next movie incarnation, Rise of the Planet of the Apes has been released (more on that in a bit) and that could have added to the excitement.
I did like the story and I am curious about this time period. Being that it was just the first issue, I can't say I was completely blown away. That is mainly because of my fondness for the franchise and the fact that I'm giving this extreme scrutiny. I need to see more of the world being established here. First issues often are stuck with the task in setting everything up. There is clearly a bigger picture that we're not seeing and that is what does have me hooked. There are indeed seeds planted and I do want to see what is going to happen next.
When it comes to drawing Planet of the Apes, you have to be careful. Even though I highly enjoyed the original movies, you have to admit that the costumes and make up, while great for the time, haven't completely held up to today's standards. The choice would have to be made in whether or not the apes should look more like they did in the original movies or if they should have a more animalistic interpretation. Carlos Magno does a great job. The apes still look like...apes but in a way that it feels possible they could be moving around and talking the way that they do in this period. The backgrounds are almost eerie in that we are seeing a time in between the present and the future world of the franchise. The combination and designs were perfect.
As a fan that takes Planet of the Apes seriously, I was pleased with the comic. Giving it a rating, it would get a 4 out of 5 in that it has enough seeds to arouse my curiosity and the art is fitting for capturing the essence of the franchise while also taking it to a new level. For me there was no question if I would check out the first issue. I'd like to know what the casual comic reader or non-Planet of the Apes fan will think. It is set up nicely for those new to the franchise and so far, enough of a feel to the original idea.
And if you haven't seen the trailer for Rise of the Planet of the Apes, check it out. Let me stress that it is not related to the comic.
Log in to comment