The 1968 film “Planet of the Apes” is a thought-provoking science fiction classic that has left an indelible mark on the genre. Director Franklin J. Schaffner’s masterpiece is filled with powerful themes, memorable characters, and a climax that has become iconic in popular culture. The movie’s ending, featuring a desolate beach with the Statue of Liberty half-buried in the sand, is a potent reminder of humanity’s devastating downfall.
The film tells the story of astronaut George Taylor, who crash-lands on a mysterious planet where intelligent apes have evolved to dominate their surroundings. Initially, Taylor, along with his crewmates, finds himself struggling to survive in this unfamiliar world. As he explores the planet, he discovers a group of mute humans treated as inferior beings and forms alliances with two chimpanzee scientists, Zira and Cornelius.
The movie’s climax is a masterclass in storytelling, as Taylor and Nova, his humanoid ape companion, arrive at the fateful beach, where the ruins of the Statue of Liberty serve as a haunting testament to humanity’s destructive abilities. The scene is a poignant reminder of humanity’s capacity for self-destruction, implying that the apes’ rise to power was a direct result of humanity’s own flaws.
A Still From Planet of the Apes 1968. (Via IMDB)
The ending was not always part of the original plan, as screenwriter Rod Serling wanted to adapt Pierre Boulle’s 1963 novel “La Planète des Singes” more closely. In the novel, the protagonist Ulysse returns to Earth, only to find it controlled by apes. However, the film’s darker conclusion, featuring the Statue of Liberty, was a bold and impactful choice that has become synonymous with the franchise.
Interestingly, an earlier draft of the screenplay featured a twist where Taylor is shot by a sniper after discovering the statue, leaving room for a potential sequel. However, this idea was ultimately scrapped, and the film’s bleak ending was cemented. The change ensured that the movie’s powerful message would resonate with audiences, emphasizing humanity’s capacity for self-destruction.
The movie’s impact is not limited to its cinematic achievements. The film has also inspired countless parodies and references, cementing its place in popular culture. “Planet of the Apes” is a timeless classic that continues to educate and charm audiences, serving as a powerful reminder of humanity’s potential for destruction.
