Simian superiority

A gripping and solid prequel to the science fiction classic “Planet of the Apes,” “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” imaginatively reveals the secrets behind the primates’ unprecedented dominance.

Cleverly connecting the eventual uprising of the simians to an experimental medical breakthrough, “Rise” is parts monster and disaster flicks, with some pet-family drama thrown in for good measure: Pioneering scientist Will Rodman (James Franco) tests a possible cure for Alzheimer’s disease on monkeys, which results in an intellectually evolved ape, Caesar (Andy Serkis), whom he secretly raises like an offspring.

The transformation of Caesar is carefully documented; eventual interactions with other apes and their abusive human captor (Tom Felton) become pivotal learning experiences that inspire the intelligent monkey to hatch a daring plot. No surprises there, of course, the monkey rebellion is a given, but momentous details leading to it are sensibly divulged.

Immensely affecting are the parent-child dynamic between Will and his ailing father (John Lithgow), and the similar bond between Will and Caesar. Caesar’s dramatic evolution and his instigation of an unthinkable revolt are emotionally engaging, expressively aided by seamless special effects. A dark fable that frightens as much as it enlightens, “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” makes sense of what has gone before, but also gives us reason to care for its mythology.