Planning to watch the Planet of the Apes movies but unsure where to start? You’re not alone. With a timeline that includes both original films and reboot prequels, it can be tricky to figure out the right order. Whether you prefer to watch the films in release order or chronological order, the best starting point in the modern series is with Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011).
Diving into the Planet of the Apes universe offers an intriguing journey from a dystopian future to the origins of a new world ruled by intelligent apes. The series, starting with the original 1968 film, delves into themes of human and ape coexistence, time travel, and societal collapse. If you’re looking to experience the chronological storyline, begin with Rise of the Planet of the Apes.
For those who prefer the original series, start your journey with the 1968 classic Planet of the Apes. From there, you can follow the saga through its subsequent sequels and reboots. By knowing the right order, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the complex and fascinating timeline of this iconic franchise.
Planet of the Apes Movies in Order By Release
- 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)
- 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 Movies in Chronological Order
The “Planet of the Apes” series tells the history of a world where intelligent apes become the dominant species. Here’s how to watch the films in order, starting from the latest prequels to the classic originals.
1. Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
This film marks the reboot of the series, showing the origins of the apes’ intelligence. A scientist, Will Rodman, develops a drug to cure Alzheimer’s, which enhances the intelligence of a chimpanzee named Caesar. Caesar leads a rebellion against humans, setting the stage for the conflicts to follow. This movie provides a crucial understanding of how the ape uprising began.
IMDb Rating 5.7/10
2. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
Set a decade after the events of “Rise,” this film shows a world where a deadly virus has wiped out much of humanity. Caesar now leads a thriving ape colony. Conflict arises when a group of human survivors seeks access to a dam in ape territory for electricity. Caesar must navigate the precarious relationship between humans and apes.
IMDb Rating 7.6/10
3. War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
In this continuation, the war between humans and apes reaches its peak. Caesar confronts a ruthless Colonel who aims to exterminate the apes. As Caesar battles personal loss and vengeance, the film highlights his struggle to lead his people to a new home free from human conflict.
IMDb Rating 7.4/10
4. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024)
Set several years after “War,” this film explores the apes’ efforts to build a new society. Caesar’s successor must manage internal conflicts and new human threats. While not much is known yet, this story will likely explore themes of leadership and survival in a post-apocalyptic world.
IMDb Rating 7.4/10
5. Planet of the Apes (1968)
This classic film introduces astronaut George Taylor, who crash-lands on a mysterious planet ruled by apes. The humans are non-verbal and treated as inferior beings. Taylor’s discovery of the planet’s true nature leads to one of the most iconic endings in cinema history, revealing the apes’ world as a future Earth.
IMDb Rating 8.0/10
6. Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970)
In this sequel, another astronaut, Brent, searches for Taylor but discovers an underground city of mutated humans. Beneath the ruins of New York, Brent uncovers more about the devastating downfall of human civilization and the rise of the apes. The film culminates in a dramatic nuclear missile standoff.
IMDb Rating 6.0/10
7. Escape From the Planet of the Apes (1971)
Three apes, Zira, Cornelius, and Dr. Milo, manage to escape Earth’s destruction by traveling back in time to the 20th century. They reveal the future to humans, leading to tension and fear. As humans plot to prevent the apes’ future dominance, this film explores the themes of destiny and prejudice.
IMDb Rating 6.3/10
8. Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972)
Set in a dystopian future where apes are enslaved by humans, the film follows Caesar, the son of Zira and Cornelius. He leads a successful rebellion, forming the foundation for the eventual rise of ape civilization. This movie highlights the struggle for freedom and rights, drawing parallels to civil rights movements.
IMDb Rating 6.1/10
9. Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973)
In the final chapter of the original series, Caesar strives to create a peaceful society where apes and humans coexist. However, internal discord and external threats challenge his vision. The film concludes the original saga, portraying the difficulties of building a harmonious society.
IMDb Rating 5.4/10
10. Planet of the Apes (2001) (Not A part of the Timeline)
Tim Burton’s reimagining of the original story presents a different take and does not fit within the established timeline. Astronaut Leo Davidson crashes on a planet ruled by apes and discovers hidden truths about its history. While visually striking, this film stands apart from the chronological order of the other entries.
IMDb Rating 5.7/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the correct way to watch the Planet of the Apes movies chronologically?
To watch the Planet of the Apes movies in chronological story order, start with the newest trilogy. Then, move to the original series. Begin with “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” (2011), followed by “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” (2014) and “War for the Planet of the Apes” (2017).
How many films comprise the Planet of the Apes movie series?
The entire Planet of the Apes movie series consists of ten films. This includes the original five films, the Tim Burton reboot, and the more recent three-film reboot series. Additionally, a new sequel is in the works, expanding the series further.
How does the original Planet of the Apes movie timeline differ from the reboot series?
The original timeline starts with “Planet of the Apes” (1968) and continues with four sequels. The reboot series begins anew with “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” (2011), redirecting the story and characters while maintaining core themes and conflicts between apes and humans.
