PLANET APES

*_Analysis of the Film _Planet of the Apes (1968)__

*Part 2 – Character Construction & Performance

2.1 Central Characters: Archetypes and Depth
Character Role & Archetype Narrative Function Core Traits & Development
George Taylor (Charlton Heston) Protagonist / Reluctant Hero / Voice of Humanity Catalyst for the audience’s discovery of the ape world; challenger of the status quo Stoic, skeptical, charismatic; wounded pride → transforms from disoriented survivor to moral crusader.
Dr. Zira (Kim Hunter) Chimpanzee Psychologist / Moral Compass Provides intellectual empathy; subverts ape orthodoxy. Compassionate, curious, secretly rebellious; grows from protector of Taylor to willing risk‑taker for truth.
Cornelius (Roddy McDowall) Chimpanzee Archaeologist / Scholar Offers historical context (the “Forbidden Zone” ruins) and alliance. Idealistic, nervous, morally conflicted; evolves into a protector of human knowledge.
Dr. Zaius (Maurice Evans) Orangutan Minister of Science / Antagonist Embodies institutional dogma and fear of the unknown. Cunning, authoritative, conflicted—protects ape supremacy while grappling with buried history.
Nova (Linda Harrison) Human “Primitive” / Symbol of Innocence Represents humanity stripped of language and culture. Silent, expressive body language; later becomes Taylor’s emotional anchor.
2.2 George Taylor – The Human Stranger
*Charlton Heston’s Performance*
- *Physicality:* Heston’s towering presence (6’2”) contrasts with the smaller, fur‑covered apes, reinforcing his alienation.
- *Voice:* Taylor’s first spoken line, “Take your stinking paws off me!” is delivered with raw anger and disbelief, marking a turning point where language becomes power.
- *Emotional Arc:*
1. *Disorientation (Crash → Captivity)* – Shock, confusion, muteness (self‑inflicted throat injury).
2. *Assertion (Regaining Speech)* – Reclaims agency, challenges ape authority.
3. *Despair (Trial & Escape)* – Confronts institutional oppression.
4. *Revelation (Statue of Liberty)* – Collapse of hope, existential horror.

*Symbolism:* Taylor functions as *Everyman* thrust into a world where humanity is the “other.” His struggle mirrors real‑world fights against dehumanization.

2.3 Dr. Zira – The Compassionate Scientist
*Kim Hunter’s Portrayal*
- *Breaking Stereotype:* Zira is not a villainous “mad scientist” but a caring professional who treats Taylor’s wounds despite societal taboos.
- *Body Language:* Subtle gestures—tilted head, soft eyes—signal curiosity and hidden dissent.
- *Dialogue Nuance:* Her repeated use of “friend” when speaking to Taylor contrasts with the formal “Sir” used by apes, underlining her willingness to break protocol.

*Character Evolution*
- *Act I:* Curious, protective, yet bound by ape law (restraining Taylor).
- *Act II:* Advocates for his rights, risks her career by helping him escape.
- *Act III:* Joins the escape, ultimately sacrificing safety for truth (Forbidden Zone).

*Themes:*
- *Empathy Across Species:* Zira’s love for knowledge transcends species prejudice.
- *Feminist Reading:* A female chimpanzee in a patriarchal ape hierarchy who uses intellect over force.

2.4 Cornelius – The Idealistic Scholar
*Roddy McDowall’s Performance*
- *Youthful Energy:* McDowall (already 30) plays a younger chimp, bringing a sense of wonder and naivety.
- *Intellectual Curiosity:* His fascination with the ruins (Forbidden Zone) mirrors humanity’s quest for origins.
- *Moral Conflict:* Torn between loyalty to his species and admiration for Taylor’s courage.

*Key Scenes:*
- *Discovery of the “Planet of Man” artifacts:* Cornelius’ eyes widen, voice trembling—realization that his civilization may be built on a lie.
- *Escape Sequence:* Shows bravery, helping Taylor and Nova flee, highlighting his transformation from scholar to savior.

2.5 Dr. Zaius – The Pragmatic Censor
*Maurice Evans’ Masterclass*
- *Orangutan Archetype:* Wisdom, bureaucracy, but also rigidity (orangutan = “keeper of