‘Kingdom of The Planet of The Apes’ Director Compares Hero to Luke Skywalker And Frodo: “Noa Fits That Archetype”

Director Wes Ball recently offered exciting details about the upcoming ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’, drawing parallels between the film’s protagonist and some of cinema’s most beloved heroes. Noa, the central character portrayed by Owen Teague, is poised to embark on a transformative journey reminiscent of Luke Skywalker from ‘Star Wars’ and Frodo Baggins from ‘The Lord of the Rings.’

Ball’s path to directing ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ wasn’t entirely straightforward. Initially apprehensive after his previous project fell through, Ball’s expertise in motion-capture technology and his established relationship with Andy Serkis, a pioneer in the field, ultimately convinced him to take the helm.

Also Read: ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’: Everything to Know

Noa, as described by Ball, embodies kindness and innocence. However, this initial portrayal hints at a profound transformation on the horizon. Ball expertly weaves a classic coming-of-age narrative, where Noa navigates a world teeming with challenges that will test his resolve and ultimately forge his true identity. 

This focus on a hero’s journey isn’t entirely unexpected. Ball previously alluded to thematic parallels between ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ and the ‘Star Wars’ saga. 

He elaborated, “I felt like Apes needed a touch of ‘Star Wars.’ The story remains grounded in reality, but it’s fundamentally a quest narrative. Our protagonist, the young and impressionable Noa, encounters various characters who guide and awaken him. His journey leads him to a place that pushes him to his limits, ultimately leading him to discover his true self.”

With its scheduled release in May ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ is generating immense anticipation among fans. Wes Ball’s vision, coupled with Noa’s evolution into a hero worthy of cinematic legend, promises an epic adventure unlike any other.

-Sushmita Sarkar