Shakman steers planet of the apes toward a radical reboot
Matt Shakman, the visionary behind ‘The Fantastic Four,’ is set to inject a bold new direction into the ‘Planet of the Apes’ franchise, potentially rewriting the series’ future.
A new chapter for the simian kingdom
Deadline reports that Shakman is taking the helm for the next installment, rumored to be a standalone film—or even a full reboot—effectively severing ties with the established timeline culminating in ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.’ This move represents a significant shift, distancing the series from Disney’s prior narrative trajectory.
The project, spearheaded by Shakman and screenwriter Josh Friedman (also of ‘Fantastic Four’ and ‘Kingdom’ pedigree), will reportedly revisit the planet’s core premise: a world dominated by intelligent apes, where they reign supreme. Forget the contemporary iterations; this new story will plunge back into the heart of ape supremacy, a deliberate departure from the recent focus on human-ape dynamics.
A strategic reversal
Sources indicate this isn’t a continuation of the 2011 ‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes’ storyline. Instead, Shakman and Friedman are crafting a completely original narrative, signaling a commitment to forging a fresh identity for the series. Steve Asbell, previously stated in October 2024 that a 2027 release was planned, but that timeline is now, understandably, uncertain.
The potential shift underscores a calculated decision to recapture the essence of what initially captivated audiences – the foundational concept of an ape-ruled world. It’s a high-stakes gamble, but one that could revitalize a franchise seemingly adrift.
Owen Teague, from ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,’ recently emphasized the enduring relevance of the series, noting its consistent ability to resonate with audiences. Despite Disney’s previous plans, the prospect of a new ‘Planet of the Apes’ film—under a new creative vision—offers a glimmer of hope for the iconic series.
Ultimately, the future remains unwritten. But the arrival of Matt Shakman suggests a determined effort to re-establish the ‘Planet of the Apes’ franchise as a force to be reckoned with, a bold move indeed.”n