How many new Planet of the Apes movies exist
There are three new Planet of the Apes movies forming a reboot trilogy: Rise (2011), Dawn (2014), and War (2017). These are the only films produced under the "New Planet of the Apes" banner that reimagined the story for a modern audience with groundbreaking motion-capture technology. Earlier standalone films and the original series are not part of this new continuity. This guide clarifies the trilogy, distinguishes it from older material, and answers common questions about cast, box office, and future possibilities.
Defining the New Planet of the Apes series
When people refer to the new Planet of the Apes movies, they usually mean the post-2011 trilogy produced by 20th Century Fox and directed by Matt Reeves. These films reboot the franchise with a more grounded, science-fiction approach, centered on the character Caesar and the rise of intelligent apes. Unlike the original 1960s-era films or the 2001 Tim Burton remake, this trilogy follows a continuous story across three releases and is the only contemporary cinematic representation of the Planet of the Apes universe.
Key distinguishing features of the new series
- Motion-capture performance led by Andy Serkis as Caesar
- A linear, three-act narrative spanning 10 years in- story
- A darker, more realistic tone compared to earlier entries
- Critical and commercial success, with strong audience scores
The three movies in the new trilogy
The core of the new Planet of the Apes slate consists of three feature films. Below is a concise overview of each title, year, and narrative role within the trilogy arc.
Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
Origin story that reintroduces Caesar and explores the intelligence-enhancing virus. It sets up the conflict between apes and humans and ends with Caesar leading his fellow apes to freedom. This entry is widely regarded as the tonal and thematic foundation of the new trilogy.
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
Set a decade later, the film examines fragile coexistence between humans and apes. It deepens Caesar’s leadership, introduces new factions on both sides, and raises the stakes for the impending war. The movie balances emotional character beats with large-scale conflict.
War for the Planet of the Apes (207)
The concluding chapter follows Caesar as he confronts the Colonel and a militarized human force. The film delivers high-stakes drama, tragic sacrifices, and definitive resolution for the Caesar storyline, closing the trilogy with a focus on legacy and cost of war.
Box office and performance highlights
Together, the three new movies have grossed over $1.6 billion worldwide, demonstrating strong audience and critical reception. Caesar, brought to life largely through Andy Serkis’s performance, is widely considered one of modern cinema’s most compelling characters. The trilogy has also been praised for its technical achievements, thematic depth, and emotional payoff.
| Movie | Year | Worldwide Gross (USD) | Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rise of the Planet of the Apes | 2011 | $481 million | 82% |
| Dawn of the Planet of the Apes | 2014 | $710 million | 91% |
| War for the Planet of the Apes | 2017 | $490 million | 94% |
What is not part of the new trilogy
The term "new" typically applies only to the post-2011 trio. Older films, such as the 1968 original or the 2001 Tim Burton version, are not included. Additionally, short films, web series, or standalone projects connected to the universe are distinct from the main theatrical trilogy and do not count as new feature films in the ongoing narrative. There are no additional new narrative features beyond the three listed above as of now.
Frequently asked questions
- Is there a fourth new movie coming? As of the latest studio plans, there is no fourth narrative film in active development under the New Planet of the Apes label.
- Are the new movies connected to the old series? They are a reboot, sharing themes and DNA with the original concept but not a direct continuation of earlier timelines.
- Who plays Caesar across the trilogy? Andy Serkis portrays Caesar in all three films, providing both performance and motion capture.
- Which is the highest-grossing new movie? Dawn of the Planet of the Apes leads in worldwide gross, followed closely by War for the Planet of the Apes.
Future possibilities and current status
While there are occasional rumors about spin-offs or new installments, the core trilogy remains the definitive new chapter for Planet of the Apes on film. The legacy of the series is shaped by the completed story of Caesar, the quality of the trilogy, and the bar it sets for motion-capture storytelling. Any future projects would likely need to justify entering a space that the existing three films have thoroughly explored.
Wrapping up
To summarize: there are three new Planet of the Apes movies, forming a critically acclaimed and commercially successful trilogy. These films define the modern era of the franchise, anchored by Andy Serkis’s portrayal of Caesar. There are currently no additional new narrative features beyond Rise, Dawn, and War, and no active plans for a fourth mainline theatrical entry under the New Planet of the Apes banner.