This film builds on an already perfect sequel to become, as of right now, my favorite film in this franchise. This film perfectly builds on where the last film left off with a story that’s even more gut wrenching but also beautiful at the same time. This film can be very difficult to watch at times. It dwells in the realities of war. Nobody wins. Everybody is negatively affected in some way. 

Both the protagonists and antagonists of this film are complex and layered. Caesar is still a great leader but we see him leaning much more heavily into the weakest aspects of himself. We see him show characteristics of Koba in his actions. The Colonel, who’s the villain of the movie, has understandable motivations. You know where he’s coming from and why he’s doing what he’s doing. He realizes that everyone else sees him as a madman but he still continues because he wants the best for humanity. 

The performances in this film are all great. Andy Serkis gets you to care deeply about Caesar through a fantastic motion capture performance. Woody Harrelson is also one of those actors that has incredible range where he can be funny in some movies and also play more dramatic roles like in this film. 

This film is very depressing but what holds it up and prevents it from going too far are the moments of beauty. You see glimmers of hope that make you smile even though the rest of the film is really heavy. Even with the Bad Ape character that should’ve ruined this movie. He’s a perfect addition because he brings just enough levity to prevent the movie from being too heavy. He’s funny without clashing with the tone. 

All this builds to the end of the movie that’s satisfying, tragic, and beautiful all at the same time. I don’t understand why these movies don’t get talked about more. This Caesar trilogy is truly one of the greatest trilogies of all time in my opinion.