The original Planet of the Apes (1968) is nothing short of a sci-fi masterpiece. Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and starring Charlton Heston, the film is smart, thought-provoking, and way ahead of its time. What starts as a strange survival story on an alien planet quickly becomes a layered commentary on humanity, war, class, and evolution. The ape makeup was groundbreaking for the era and still holds up surprisingly well, giving the characters real depth and emotion. And of course, the ending—one of the most iconic twist endings in cinema history—is unforgettable. It’s a film that blends entertainment with big ideas, and it sticks with you long after the credits roll.
Then we got the 2001 remake, directed by Tim Burton. On paper, it sounded like a dream—Burton at the helm of a Planet of the Apes reboot? Expectations were sky-high. Unfortunately, the result was a huge letdown. The visuals are solid, and the ape makeup by Rick Baker is fantastic—but everything else feels messy. The plot is confusing, the characters are flat, and the tone is all over the place. Mark Wahlberg is a bland lead, and the film never quite knows if it wants to be serious or campy. And then there’s the ending… an attempt at a twist that just left everyone scratching their heads.
It’s not the worst film ever made, but it was a massive disappointment—especially considering the legacy it was trying to live up to and the talent involved.
Winner: Planet of the Apes (1968) (10/10)
Disappointment: Planet of the Apes (2001) (4/10)
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