Review Dawn of the Planet of the Apes film review by G. H. (Gman)

There aren't too many examples I can safely use for the, “visual effects further the story” argument. Indeed, CGI and visual artistry is what gives us exciting action sequences necessary for most blockbuster tentpoles. However, with movies like Transformers: Age of Extinction and The Amazing Spider-Man 2 vomiting one unnecessary, epileptic flash of CG after another, modern visuals have proven to be a toy for filmmakers and rarely a tool.

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes refuses to step into that pitfall. The CG effects and visuals create the most compelling characters in the film. Much of their time isn't spent with action sequences, but key moments of story movement that made me forget I was watching a CGI ape.

Ceasar, miraculously, works as a lead character. His on-screen presence is amongst the most imposing of cinematic characters. With amusement I deem that charming scowl of his the most intimidating lip position in cinema history. Ceasar doesn't need to talk to make an impression, but when he does it only adds to an already formidable character.

Rise of the Planet of the Apes was a surprise when it hit theaters; I hardly expected it to be as good as it was. Dawn, however, builds on that movie with more confidence and weightier storytelling. It makes a great case for story driven visual effects, post-human cinema and strong sequels-- Perhaps the best film the year has to offer blockbuster audiences.