War for the Planet of the Apes follows the same characters from the preceding endeavours, as we reconnect with the story of Caesar. There are a handful of new apes (and humans) amongst the ranks – and one of which is Bad Ape, played by American actor Steve Zahn.
As one of our favourite characters in this thrilling piece of cinema, it was our pleasure to sit down with the man himself, to discuss what it was like playing a chimpanzee. Zahn talks about the process of playing an ape using motion capture, and to what extent he studied chimps in preparation for the role.
We discuss the affinity he now shares with this species, and the joy in watching the film back and see how it’s all been put together. Finally we ask about Lean on Pete, where Zahn will be collaborating with the immensely talented British director Andrew Haigh (Weekend, 45 Years).
Watch the full interview below…
Synopsis
Caesar (Andy Serkis) and his apes are forced into a deadly conflict with an army of humans led by a ruthless colonel (Woody Harrelson). After the apes suffer unimaginable losses, Caesar wrestles with his darker instincts and begins his own mythic quest to avenge his kind. As the journey finally brings them face to face, Caesar and the colonel are pitted against each other in an epic battle that will determine the fate of both of their species and the future of the planet.
War for the Planet of the Apes is released on July 11th. You can read our review of the film here.
