A Scientist at the Movies Reviews by Greg Paris

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Title: Planet of the Apes (2001)

Date Viewed: 8/4/01

Details:

Mark Wahlberg

Tim Roth (General Thade)

Helena Bonham Carter (Ari)

Michael Clarke Duncan (Colonel Attar)

Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa (Krull)

David Warner (Senator Sandar)

Kris Kristofferson (Karubi)

Director: Tim Burton

Score: -1/2

The Review: Remake of the first Planet of the Apes (1968; the original was based on Pierre Boulle's excellent short novel). This pales in comparison. The plot elements have been altered substantially, thus losing the punch of the original's ending. The only decent aspect of this version is the costuming and effects: transforming the actors into apes has been done very well done. But a single concept does not a good movie make; not recommended.

This is not one of director Burton's better efforts. It brings to mind an editorial comment: "Why do they remake good films? Why not remake the bad ones?"

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