Treachery and Greed on the Planet of the Apes

About This Movie

Treachery and Greed on the Planet of the Apes has this gritty feel, which really sets it apart from the earlier films. The pacing is a bit uneven, but it works because the tension builds nicely as Burke, Virdon, and Galen try to navigate their moral choices. The performances here are solid; you really see the desperation in the human characters as they try to save the blacksmith and his son. The practical effects are worth noting too, especially the gorilla costumes, which add a level of realism even if they show their age. The themes of corruption and survival ring true, and the way the trio tries to outsmart a crooked gorilla is both clever and a bit dark.

Third of five telefilms in the Apes saga · Features strong moral dilemmas · Highlights themes of corruption and survival