Planet of the Apes 1968
"Somewhere in the Universe, there must be something better than man!"
Franklin J. Schaffner's *Planet of the Apes* (1968) transports viewers to a chilling alternate Earth where human astronaut Taylor crash lands on a dystopian planet ruled by hyper-intelligent apes.
Director: Franklin J. Schaffner
Cast
Charlton Heston
George Taylor
Roddy McDowall
Cornelius
Kim Hunter
Zira
Maurice Evans
Dr. Zaius
James Whitmore
President of the Assembly
James Daly
Dr. Honorious
Linda Harrison
Nova
Robert Gunner
Landon
Lou Wagner
Lucius
Woodrow Parfrey
Dr. Maximus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Planet of the Apes (1968) about?
The film follows astronaut George Taylor, who crash lands on a mysterious planet where intelligent apes have created a dystopian society. Humans are oppressed as primitive slaves, and Taylor becomes a target of their experiments. As he fights for survival, he uncovers disturbing truths about the planet's dark past and his own uncertain future.
Who directed Planet of the Apes?
Franklin J. Schaffner directed *Planet of the Apes* (1968), bringing a gripping, atmospheric vision to this revolutionary sci-fi tale.
Who stars in Planet of the Apes?
The film stars Charlton Heston as George Taylor, with Roddy McDowall, Kim Hunter, Maurice Evans, and James Whitmore rounding out the principal cast.
Is Planet of the Apes (1968) worth watching?
Absolutely—a genre-defining classic, *Planet of the Apes* (1968) delivers thrilling survival action alongside sharp social allegory. Its iconic ending and stellar performances make it essential viewing for sci-fi fans and casual viewers alike.
How long is Planet of the Apes?
The film runs for 112 minutes (1 hour and 52 minutes).
🎥 Trailer
About Planet of the Apes (1968) — Charlton Heston's Iconic Sci-Fi Masterpiece Explained
Franklin J. Schaffner's *Planet of the Apes* (1968) transports viewers to a chilling alternate Earth where human astronaut Taylor crash lands on a dystopian planet ruled by hyper-intelligent apes. These primates dominate society, enslaving humans and treating them as mere lab subjects or hunting trophies. Taylor soon becomes the ultimate outcast, thrust into a brutal survival struggle against this twisted hierarchy. The film masterfully blends sci-fi adventure with biting social commentary, questioning progress, humanity, and the fragility of civilization. Its eerie post-apocalyptic atmosphere lingers long after the credits roll, making it a landmark in science fiction storytelling.
Charlton Heston delivers a powerhouse performance as the bewildered astronaut, while Roddy McDowall and Kim Hunter add depth to the simian ruling class. With its haunting iconography—a ruined Statue of Liberty lurking in the finale—the movie transcends its era, cementing its place as a cultural touchstone. Whether you're drawn to its thought-provoking themes or its pulse-pounding survival narrative, *Planet of the Apes* (1968) remains an unforgettable cinematic journey.
