Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes Teaser Might Be The Best Trailer Of The Year

20th Century Studios has debuted the first trailer for "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes." 

Caesar (Andy Serkis) is dead, and the Planet of the Apes has never been different. Back in 2017, director Matt Reeves concluded the rebooted "Apes" trilogy with the hard-hitting "War for the Planet of the Apes." The box office hit wrapped up Caesar's arc with grace, definitively turning the once humble, simple ape into a messiah worth remembering. And while the leader of the apes may be dead, the billion-dollar franchise is far from dormant, as 20th Century Studios is revisiting the series with "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes."  

Set many years after "War," the Wes Ball-directed "Kingdom" is set to explore the ramifications of Caesar's death and how apes have evolved since his passing. Early plot details reveal that humans have been reduced to a feral state, while the apes run mighty, boasting several clans. Though it remains to be seen how the new young ape in the film — which happens to be the 10th film in the franchise — can live up to the expectations set by Caeser, the first teaser for the picture looks nothing short of spectacular. 

Filled with rich, lush imagery of a world reclaimed by nature, arresting visuals, an intriguing premise focused on legacy, and realistic-looking apes, the first teaser of "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" is one of the best first looks we've seen all year. 

The ending of "War for the Planet of the Apes" boldly shows Caesar (Serkis) dying, with the ape reflecting on the potential of his legacy and the impact his actions have had. The plot description for "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" confirms that the film is set generations after the leader's passing, though it's unclear just how far into the future. It is obvious from the teaser that apes are prosperous and are enjoying their top spot in the food chain. After all, there are several shots in the teaser of completely feral humans, signaling a radical shift in the hierarchy of dominating species. 

But who reigns supreme over all the apes? The first look at the picture ends with a damning tease, showing a tyrannical-looking ape king or leader with a rabid kingdom. "What a wonderful day!" the leader exclaims as the teaser wraps up, implying that something major is about to go down. Humans are mostly seen lurking in the shadows and scavenging, so it's unlikely that the new villain has his eyes set on destroying our species. Perhaps he has issues with the mysterious new lead ape, who is seen taking care of a young human girl.

The upcoming sequel features Owen Teague in the lead role. He's joined by "The Witcher" star Freya Allen, "The Orville" actor Peter Macon, and silver screen icon William H. Macy. Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver, who helped co-pen the previous films in the reboot trilogy, are returning as co-writers for the upcoming sequel. 

"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" hits cinemas on May 24, 2024.