Time–we don’t have a lot of it, and every movie out there claims to be “spectacular”, “one of a kind”, “mesmerizing”. Let me save you some time right now and point you at films that are worth seeing for those who like thought-provoking, story and character driven, sometimes a-typical films. You may have seen them. If that is the case, let me know what you thought in the comments. If you haven’t seen them, check them out and come back for a conversation. If you’ve got any others to add to the list, pop them up in the comments feed.
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes. This is one you’ve probably seen. If not, and you’ve been sitting on the fence, definitely give it a go. At times it feels like watching the original Jurassic Park. There is an awe at the wild world and its ability to completely decimate us once we step outside our convenience-laden, civilized worlds. Dawn, however, differs in that we, humans, are not the protagonists. The movie follows Caesar (the little ape from Rise of the Planet of the Apes) as the hero of the tale. It’s this factor and its subsequent exploration of what a naturally evolving ape society might look like that sets it apart from other man vs. animal movies. It also leaves you wondering who, truly, will come out of this thing alive. Brilliantly acted, communicated, and animated, Dawn is more than satisfying.
Owen Banner 