‘It’ actor to star as the lead primate in ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,’ with 'Maze Runner’ helmer Wes Ball writing and directing.
The apes are back to fight another day! Because, of course! While Caesar and friends will be missed, Disney’s 20th Century is reviving the primate-driven sci-fi franchise, Planet of the Apes, and a new leader has been revealed. Deadline announced that It and The Stand actor Owen Teague will take up the mantle of main ape in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes; Disney acquired rights to the franchise in their 2019 purchase of 20th Century Fox – now known as 20th Century.
While the reboot will be directed and penned by Maze Runner helmer Wes Ball, further details about plot or storylines are tightly under wraps, and casting is underway for the remaining lead roles. We do know that a script has been delivered, which "instantly excited [executives] about where the new story could take fans of the franchise."
While off to a great start, Ball’s upcoming Apes films have some serious King Kong-sized shoes to fill. Andy Serkis’s portrayal of Caesar, the leader of the apes, is considered one of the best motion-capture performances in film history. Weta Digital’s VFX for Rise, Dawn, and War displayed extraordinary visual mastery, winning the studio multiple accolades, including Annie Awards for Outstanding Achievement for Character Animation in a Live Action Production for all three films. However, while nominated, an Oscar award remained an elusive white whale for the franchise. Perhaps Ball can break the curse?
A release date for Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes has yet to be announced. Check back for updates (ape-dates?).
Journalist, antique shop owner, aspiring gemologist—L'Wren brings a diverse perspective to animation, where every frame reflects her varied passions.
