Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“Beneath the Planet of the Apes,” directed by Ted Post, is the sequel to the iconic 1968 film “Planet of the Apes.” Released in 1970, this film continues the story of a post-apocalyptic Earth dominated by intelligent apes. While it builds upon the themes of its predecessor, “Beneath the Planet of the Apes” introduces new characters and explores darker themes, particularly the nature of humanity and the consequences of nuclear war. In this review, we will examine the film’s plot, characters, themes, and where you can watch it online.
Plot Summary
The film picks up where the original left off, following the journey of Brent (played by James Franciscus), an astronaut sent to find the missing George Taylor (played by Charlton Heston). Brent crash-lands on the same planet and quickly discovers that it is ruled by intelligent apes, who have established a society that mirrors many aspects of human civilization.
As Brent navigates the ape-dominated world, he encounters Nova (played by Linda Harrison), a mute woman who was once Taylor’s companion, and learns about the ongoing tensions between the ape factions, particularly between the more progressive Zira (played by Kim Hunter) and the more oppressive Dr. Zaius (played by Maurice Evans).
The plot thickens when Brent discovers a hidden underground city inhabited by the remnants of humanity. These mutant humans possess telepathic abilities and worship a nuclear bomb, believing it to be a god. Tensions escalate as Brent and Nova become entangled in the conflict between the apes and the mutants, leading to a climactic showdown that questions the very nature of civilization and humanity.
Character Development
Brent
James Franciscus takes over as the lead character, Brent, and delivers a solid performance as the new astronaut navigating this strange world. While his character doesn’t reach the depth of Taylor, Brent serves as a conduit for exploring the film’s themes. His evolution from a man searching for answers to someone fighting for survival captures the desperation of humanity in a post-apocalyptic setting.
Nova
Linda Harrison returns as Nova, who has now developed her own character arc. Her mute yet expressive performance highlights the emotional bond she forms with Brent, providing a humanizing element in a world dominated by apes and mutants. Nova’s character symbolizes innocence amidst the chaos of a broken world.
Dr. Zaius
Maurice Evans delivers a memorable performance as Dr. Zaius, the orangutan leader who embodies the conflict between knowledge and ignorance. His character represents the fear of change and the desire to maintain the status quo, providing an antagonist who believes in the superiority of ape society over humanity.
Direction and Visual Style
Ted Post’s direction brings a sense of urgency and tension to the film. While it lacks some of the groundbreaking visual effects of the original, it compensates with strong performances and engaging storytelling. The cinematography captures the desolation of the underground city and the chaos of the ape world, creating a visually striking backdrop for the narrative.
The production design effectively contrasts the advanced technology of the mutants with the primitive yet complex society of the apes. This contrast serves to amplify the film’s exploration of civilization and the remnants of humanity.
Themes and Social Commentary
“Beneath the Planet of the Apes” dives into several significant themes:
The Nature of Humanity
The film questions what it means to be human in a world where the lines between man and ape have blurred. Through the depiction of both the intelligent apes and the mutated humans, the film explores the consequences of humanity’s destructive tendencies, particularly regarding war and the potential for self-destruction.
Nuclear Anxieties
Reflecting the anxieties of the Cold War era, the film addresses the consequences of nuclear warfare. The mutants’ worship of a nuclear bomb serves as a potent symbol of humanity’s fear and fascination with destruction. This theme resonates with contemporary audiences, highlighting the dangers of technological advancements when misused.
Oppression and Freedom
The struggle between the apes and the mutants represents a broader commentary on oppression and the quest for freedom. The apes’ rigid societal structure mirrors real-world issues of control and subjugation, while the mutants’ desire for power showcases the desperation that can arise from oppression.
Reception and Impact
Upon its release, “Beneath the Planet of the Apes” received mixed reviews from critics but found a dedicated audience among fans of the franchise. While some praised its darker tone and thought-provoking themes, others felt it lacked the originality and impact of its predecessor. Despite this, the film has gained recognition over the years for its ambitious storytelling and social commentary.
The movie also contributed to the development of the “Planet of the Apes” franchise, paving the way for further sequels and a renewed interest in the series in the 21st century.
Where to Watch “Beneath the Planet of the Apes” Online
If you’re interested in watching “Beneath the Planet of the Apes,” here are some platforms where you can stream or rent it in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- HBO Max – Available for streaming with a subscription.
- Amazon Prime Video – Available for streaming with an Amazon Prime subscription.
Rental and Purchase Options
If you prefer to rent or purchase the film, you can find it on the following platforms:
- Google Play Movies – Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $9.99.
- Apple TV/iTunes – Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $9.99.
- YouTube Movies – Available for rent at $3.99 or purchase at $9.99.
- Vudu – Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $9.99.
Conclusion
“Beneath the Planet of the Apes” (1970) is a thought-provoking sequel that builds on the foundations laid by its predecessor while delving deeper into themes of humanity, war, and oppression. With strong performances and a compelling narrative, the film invites viewers to reflect on the consequences of human actions in a world that has been irrevocably altered.
For those interested in exploring the complex legacy of the “Planet of the Apes” franchise, “Beneath the Planet of the Apes” is a must-watch. Available on HBO Max and various rental platforms, this film serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of its themes and the power of cinema to provoke thought and discussion.
