Caesar the Ape Prophet: Evolution of Culture and Religion in Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

Hosts Matthew Fox and Riki Hayashi dive deep into the fascinating
world of Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes and the entire Planet of
the Apes franchise. They explore how this groundbreaking series
tackles complex themes of culture, society, religion, and language
evolution in a post-human world. The hosts begin by discussing
the franchise's unique position in sci-fi history, dating back to
1968. They ponder: How has Planet of the Apes managed to remain
relevant and captivating for over five decades? Matthew and Riki
examine the franchise's evolution from its original installments to
the latest reboot, highlighting the increased intentionality and
continuity in storytelling.A central focus of their discussion is
the character of Caesar and his transformation into a focus of
religious mythology. They ask: How does the latest film, set 300
years after Caesar's time, depict the evolution of his teachings
into religious doctrine? The hosts explore the fascinating parallel
between Caesar's legacy and real-world religious and political
movements, examining how messages can be distorted and manipulated
over time.The conversation delves into the power of language and
communication. Matthew and Riki contemplate: How does the franchise
use language barriers between humans and apes to comment on our own
society's struggles with understanding and empathy? They discuss
the significance of written language in preserving history and the
consequences of its loss.Other topics covered include:• The
franchise's commentary on racism, culture, and policing
• The evolution of special effects in depicting apes from the 1960s
to now
• Parallels between ape society and human civilizations
• The role of rituals and symbols in forming cultural
identity
• The ethical questions raised about human-animal relationships and
intelligenceIn conclusion, Matthew and Riki reflect on the enduring
appeal of the Planet of the Apes franchise. They highlight its
unique ability to use a fantastical premise to hold a mirror up to
human society, prompting viewers to question their assumptions
about civilization, communication, and what it truly means to be
"human."
Bonus member content includes a discussion of what comes next for
the Apes franchise.
We’ve started the conversation. Now we want to hear from you!Want
to continue the discussion with us? Agree or disagree with what we
talked about, or add your own thoughts? We’ve got options for you!

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