"Planet of the Apes Revisited" by Joe Russo is an incredible and extensive guide that provides readers with a deep dive into the beloved science fiction film franchise. This highly informative book delves into the making of the iconic 1968 original film, as well as its sequels and the subsequent television series, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of the entire franchise.
Russo begins by exploring the origins of the "Planet of the Apes" franchise, tracing its roots back to Pierre Boulle's French novel. From there, he takes readers on a fascinating journey through the production process, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs faced by the filmmakers. The book thoroughly examines every aspect of the film's creation, including casting decisions and the innovative makeup techniques that brought the apes to life.
What sets "Planet of the Apes Revisited" apart is the inclusion of exclusive interviews with key individuals involved in the franchise. Russo provides insights from the director, producers, and cast members, as well as the artists and technicians responsible for the groundbreaking makeup and special effects. These interviews offer a unique perspective on the creative process and provide a deeper understanding of the enduring appeal of the series.
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In addition to the exploration of the original film, "Planet of the Apes Revisited" covers the subsequent sequels and the television series in great detail. Russo offers analysis and commentary on each installment, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the franchise's evolution and its impact on popular culture. The book also includes a wealth of photographs, production stills, and concept art, enhancing the reading experience and providing a visual feast for fans.
Overall, "Planet of the Apes Revisited" is a must-read for both die-hard fans of the franchise and anyone interested in the art of filmmaking. Joe Russo's meticulous research, combined with his engaging writing style, makes for an enjoyable and informative read. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, this book offers a comprehensive and immersive journey into the fascinating world of "Planet of the Apes".
What are readers saying?
"Planet of the Apes Revisited" by Joe Russo has garnered a mix of reviews from readers. Many reviewers praised the book for its extensive analysis of the beloved movie franchise. They admired Russo's thorough research and informative presentation of the films, their themes, and their influence. Readers particularly appreciated the book's behind-the-scenes insights and its ability to provide a detailed account of the production history and cultural significance of the "Planet of the Apes" series. The engaging writing style also resonated with fans, evoking a sense of nostalgia for the movies.
However, some reviewers expressed disappointment with the book's organization and structure. They found it to be disjointed and lacking a logical flow, which made it challenging to follow at times. Certain aspects of the films were also overemphasized, neglecting other important elements and resulting in an imbalanced exploration of the franchise. Additionally, a few reviewers noted several factual errors in the book, which detracted from their overall reading experience.
Opinions varied regarding the depth of analysis provided. While some readers praised Russo's comprehensive examination of the themes and cultural impact of the series, others felt that the analysis lacked sufficient depth and merely rehashed the plot and behind-the-scenes information. Some reviewers desired a more critical analysis of the movies, delving beyond surface-level observations.
Despite these mixed reviews, "Planet of the Apes Revisited" may still be of value to fans of the franchise, as it offers an exploration of the films and their impact on popular culture. Its in-depth analysis and behind-the-scenes insights are commended by some readers, while others were disappointed with its organization and lack of depth. Ultimately, individual preferences and expectations will determine the overall reception of the book among fans of the "Planet of the Apes" series.