Behind the Planet of the Apes (1998)

Prepare for the ultimate adventure with this behind-the-scenes chronicle of the amazing Planet of the Apes phenomenon. Host Roddy McDowall takes you, film by film, from production meetings to make-up sessions, then right onto the movie set to see the actual filming of this science fiction masterpiece. Hear exclusive interviews with stars Charlton Heston and Kim Hunter, see rare archival photos, and view never-before-seen footage. Then see how the Apes saga reached beyond the original visionary films, creating a franchise that includes television and books. The most comprehensive history of Planet of the Apes ever created, this fascinating 127-minute documentary explores one of the most imaginative and influential series in movie history. This special two-disc set contains over two hours of extras! 319 minutes.

Great insight from the cast of each film!

This is a great documentary that is boosted by the fact that it contains thoughtful commentary from Charlton Heston, Roddy McDowell and others.

Many film documentaries are a let-down in that they only feature opinions from a few key players, but often not the main star or subject of the program itself. This is definitely not the case here.

The interviews are great, the rare and backstage footage is interesting and Roddy McDowell's genuine enthusiasm shines through in the narration.

Definitely worth your money. July 3, 2008

very interesting

I love to watch behind the scenes of how movies were made especially of old classics such as "The Planet of the Apes" one of my most favorite films of all time. This was a fantastic Documentary and it was very interesting to watch how this film was made during that time in the late sixties. February 29, 2008

Great documentary on the series. Well done!

This documentary covers the original Planet Of The Apes films and TV series' (including, briefly, the cartoon). Extremely well done. Hosted by Cornelius/Caesar/Galen himself, Roddy McDowell. This documentary tells the complete story of the films, with loads of behind the scenes information, photos, and footage. You also get to see some of the original makeup test used to sell Fox on the film (but not the ENTIRE test, as the packaging implies), as well as some promotional material, and an interview with McDowell. The interview is a mixed-bag, as there is no microphone on the person CONDUCTING the interview, so you can bately hear the questions (if at all). That minor grievance aside, this is a fantastic, 2-disc set, and I recommend this to any Planet Of The Apes fan. July 5, 2005

The Ultimate Ape Documentary

This film was the documentary that revealed it all, even the make-up test with Hollywood legend Edward G. Robinson. Hosted by Roddy McDowall, this film goes behind the scenes at all five apes films, the two television series, the mass merchandising campaign, and beyond. Learn that this whole thing started with a novel that was rejected by its own author, and that Arthur Jacobs, the producer, had his wife in all but one Apes film.
Interveiws with Charlton Heston, Kim Hunter, John Chambers, Natalie Trundy, and Ricardo Montalbahn are also included. The Ultimate Ape Event! April 4, 2002

Look into the making of the apes saga!!!(...)

This is a great documentary on how the apes saga was made.This 2 disk DVD set takes you behind the scenes of Planet of the Apes.It is an great experience for apes fans.Hosted by Roddy McDowall(actor who played Cornelius,Caesar,and Galen)it is alsome!There is some things I do not like about it though.One thing is on the interview with Roddy McDowall.I just think that its to long and I don't think anywone would want to watch 1 hour and more of Roddy McDowall talking.Also I hate how the dailies and outtakes don't have any sound.You don't even now whats going on half the time.This is still a good experience and I think you should get it!!(...) December 23, 2001

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