Matt Shakman to Helm Latest Installment in 'Planet of the Apes' Saga

Filmmaker Matt Shakman has been tapped to direct an upcoming film within the long-running "Planet of the Apes" universe. This move marks a significant transition for Shakman, who recently completed work on a superhero movie for Disney's Marvel imprint, "The Fantastic Four: First Steps." His involvement signals a fresh direction for the iconic sci-fi property under 20th Century Studios. According to Variety, Shakman will collaborate with screenwriter Josh Friedman to craft the narrative for this new entry. Friedman brings a notable resume to the project, having contributed to major cinematic successes such as James Cameron's "Avatar: The Way of Water" and Steven Spielberg's "War of the Worlds." His previous work also includes the television series "Snowpiercer" and a prior "Planet of the Apes" script that ultimately went unproduced. The specific plot details for the new "Planet of the Apes" movie remain under wraps. However, the franchise has a rich history, beginning with Pierre Boulle's original novel and spawning a highly influential 1968 film starring Charlton Heston. This initial success led to a series of sequels, a television show, and an animated series, solidifying its place in popular culture. More recently, the saga was revitalized with a trilogy that began in 2011 with "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," followed by "Dawn of the Planet of the Apes" in 2014, and concluding with "War for the Planet of the Apes" in 2017. These films garnered significant critical acclaim and commercial success, featuring advancements in motion-capture technology and compelling storytelling centered on the character of Caesar. Shakman's directorial experience spans both film and television. Beyond his recent superhero endeavor, he has helmed episodes of critically praised series like "Game of Thrones" and "Succession." His diverse background suggests a fresh perspective for the "Planet of the Apes" franchise as it continues to evolve its compelling exploration of humanity, intelligence, and societal conflict.