Matt Shakman To Direct New “Planet Of The Apes” Movie

Key Takeaways

• Matt Shakman, known for WandaVision, will direct new Apes film
• Josh Friedman returns as writer, linking previous franchise entries
• Disney aims to leverage $1.7 billion franchise revenue
• Film will explore ape‑dominated planet, not direct sequel
• Production still early; release could be years away

Pulse Analysis

The Planet of the Apes series has evolved from its 1960s origins into a modern franchise that consistently draws audiences worldwide. Disney’s recent release, "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes," revived interest and demonstrated the brand’s capacity to blend cutting‑edge visual effects with socially resonant storytelling. By anchoring the next chapter with a proven director, Disney aims to sustain the momentum and deepen the franchise’s cultural relevance, positioning it alongside other high‑profile IPs that drive both box‑office and streaming performance.

Matt Shakman’s appointment marks a strategic shift toward auteur‑driven blockbuster filmmaking. Known for his meticulous world‑building on WandaVision and his upcoming Fantastic Four entry, Shakman brings a blend of television pacing and cinematic spectacle that could refresh the Apes narrative. Partnering with writer Josh Friedman—who has contributed to Avatar: The Way of Water and the latest Apes film—suggests a focus on expansive world‑building and thematic depth, potentially exploring new philosophical angles while preserving the series’ core conflict between humanity and evolution.

From a business perspective, the franchise’s $1.7 billion cumulative box‑office haul underscores its profitability and cross‑generational appeal. Disney’s plan to develop another film, even at an early stage, signals confidence in leveraging legacy content for future theatrical releases and Disney+ exclusives. While the timeline remains uncertain, the project could serve as a pipeline for merchandising, theme‑park experiences, and ancillary revenue, reinforcing Disney’s broader strategy of maximizing high‑value intellectual property across multiple platforms.