A new 'Planet of the Apes' movie is officially in development at 20th Century Studios, with Matt Shakman set to direct the next chapter in the long-running sci-fi franchise. Shakman, who recently directed 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' for Disney and Marvel, will collaborate with screenwriter Josh Friedman on the upcoming film. While plot details remain under wraps, the project will return to the world of intelligent apes and the ongoing conflict between humans and primates.
Matt Shakman to Direct New 'Planet of the Apes' Movie
Deadline first reported the news of the new 'Planet of the Apes' movie. Shakman will also produce the film alongside Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver, with Scott Aversano overseeing the project for 20th Century Studios. Friedman, who wrote the screenplay for 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes'—the most recent installment in the franchise—previously worked with Shakman on 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps'. His other credits at 20th Century Studios include 'Avatar: The Way of Water' and the upcoming 'Avatar: Fire and Ash'.
Box Office Success of 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes'
'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes' earned nearly USD 400 million worldwide on a budget of USD 160 million. The modern 'Planet of the Apes' franchise has delivered four films over 15 years, crossing USD 2 billion at the global box office. This success underscores the enduring appeal of the franchise, which began with 2011's 'Rise of the Planet of the Apes'.
Shakman's Diverse Portfolio
Shakman's recent work spans several major titles across film and television. He directed Marvel's 'WandaVision', the studio's first major streaming series, and has helmed pilots for 'Monarch: Legacy of Monsters', 'The Consultant', 'Welcome to Chippendales', and 'The Great', starring Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult. Additionally, Shakman directed episodes of 'It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia', 'Succession', and 'Game of Thrones'. He also directed the pilot and final episode of the upcoming Siegfried and Roy series 'Wild Things', starring Jude Law and Andrew Garfield.
'Planet of the Apes' Franchise Continues After 'Kingdom'
The new movie follows the success of 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes', which expanded the modern franchise after earlier films centered on the rise of Caesar and the growing power of the apes. The studio has not yet announced the cast, release date, or specific story details for the new 'Planet of the Apes' movie. Fans eagerly await further updates as production progresses.
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