Film Illiterate, wherein the proprietor records movies seen, and sporadic progress through assorted lists of the "best". Originally started after regretfully renting something forgettable for the third time. I've forgotten what, but never again! A tedious endeavour since 2005. Hello. 🙂
Another day, another failed attempt at remaking a classic film. No-one is surprised.
The differences are large enough, however, that a comparison to the 1968 film isn't really appropriate. The studio's use of the weasel-word "re-imagining" over "remake" isn't just public relations spin: Burton's project has similar characters and a similar premise, but the execution and conclusion are wildly divergent. A comparison is futile.
I won't bother, except to say that it's hard to imagine how he could have so thoroughly missed the point. Instead of pointed, socially-conscious science fiction, Burton's film is more like Braveheart-in-space, only with wishy-washy reconciliation. The conclusion is a bizarre non sequitur.
Perhaps the never-made sequel would have allowed a more generous interpretation, but standing alone -- even on its own terms -- it's a terrible film. Wahlberg flexes his muscles and looks determined; Daena (Estella Warren) makes doe-eyes at him. The apes are too deep in the uncanny valley for sympathy or credibility. The plot, running the gamut from incoherence to stupidity, offers no relief.
Verdict: avoid!