However, instead of continuing the storyline established in 2024’s “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes,” director Matt Shakman and screenwriter Josh Friedman are teaming up to deliver a completely original narrative within the iconic sci-fi universe.
The cinematic hierarchy of Earth is preparing for yet another massive creative shift. In a surprising announcement that completely upended fan expectations, a brand-new Planet of the Apes motion picture is officially in active development at 20th Century Studios. With a highly celebrated superhero director taking the helm and a veteran science fiction writer crafting the script, the enduring dystopian property is gearing up for a fascinating, unexpected evolution.
A Surprising Pivot from ‘Kingdom’
The sudden announcement sent immediate shockwaves through the dedicated fan base, primarily because the previous theatrical entry, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, ended on a massive, unresolved cliffhanger. According to Deadline, sources indicate that this upcoming feature will definitively not be a continuation of Wes Ball’s 2024 film.
Instead of immediately resolving the lingering conflicts between Noa and Mae, the studio has opted to forge an entirely fresh path forward. This bold departure indicates a strong desire to keep the decades-old saga unpredictable and narratively versatile.
The Marvel Connection
Acclaimed filmmaker Matt Shakman, who recently helmed Marvel’s highly anticipated superhero reboot The Fantastic Four: First Steps, has been officially tapped to direct the upcoming adventure. He will collaborate closely with veteran screenwriter Josh Friedman, a powerhouse who not only co-wrote Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes but also collaborated with Shakman on the recent Fantastic Four script.
Franchise architects Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver are also attached to produce the project alongside Shakman, bringing their deep institutional knowledge to the table. This formidable assembly of behind-the-scenes talent guarantees a visually spectacular and emotionally complex theatrical experience.
Expanding the Primate Universe
While Friedman’s newest script will intentionally abandon the specific characters established in the most recent installment, it will firmly remain grounded on the familiar planet where intelligent apes reign as the superior species. The deliberate decision to sever ties with recent protagonists suggests that the writing team is eager to explore unexplored eras or entirely new geographical locations within the established mythology. This narrative separation grants the filmmakers immense freedom to design novel primate cultures without being shackled to strict, immediate continuity constraints.
What the Future Holds
Although specific plot details remain tightly locked inside the 20th Century Studios vault, the sheer caliber of the attached visionaries has already generated immense industry buzz. Shakman’s proven ability to balance intimate character dynamics with blockbuster spectacle—as seen in his Emmy-nominated work on WandaVision—makes him an ideal candidate to shepherd the legendary brand forward. As pre-production officially ramps up, the entertainment world will be eagerly waiting for casting announcements and conceptual artwork. This bold new chapter is perfectly positioned to redefine the enduring, monumental legacy of the series for a modern generation.