Planet of the Apes is one of the best science fiction film of the late 1960s with a memorable cast, simple plot. The film was based on the novel by Pierre Boulle. It tells the story of an astronaut landing on a distant planet and discovering that man’s role as the superior life form has been reversed with the apes. The film was made when there was no CGI or modern editing tools.
Most of the early scenes of a desert-like terrain were shot in northern Arizona near the Grand Canyon, and the ape village scenes were filmed on the Fox Ranch in Malibu Creek State Park, northwest of Los Angeles. The film was nominated for Best Costume Design and Costume designer Morton Haack won an honorary Academy Award for John Chambers for his outstanding make-up achievement.
Have a look at these stunning behind-the-scene images of the making of the Planet of the Apes.
I love this movie. There can and have been cheap shots made at the expense of makeup, but it astonishes me they made it look that good. Although it’s not realistic, it’s just incredible what was done.
The make-up was perfect, in my opinion. It wasn’t supposed to be highly realistic. Actors were considered to express their emotions and personalities. The cast and makeup department did a fantastic job of letting the different characters shine through.
I love you, Dr Zaius!
#12 Roddy Mcdowall in character as Cornelius – I don’t think it is. Look at the clothing. Looks like it was a character in the 1974 TV series.